Finding out the Housing Stupa of the Engraved Copper Plates of Fourth Buddhist Council

Since the 19th century, scholars have tried to locate the housing stupa of the engraved copper plates hidden by Emperor Kanishka, following his and his team's theosophical thoughts. This study delves into the search for the engraved copper plates of the Fourth Buddhist council, hidden at a secret location under a stupa. Divided into two sections, the research aims to locate the Fourth Buddhist council site and identify the housing stupa based on the hypothesis that King Kanishka, being knowledgeable about the Himalayan terrain, would have hidden the plates in a secure place protected from atmospheric and human-induced hazards. Accompanied by Buddhist scholars, Kanishka executed this plan with great secrecy.The research supports the theory that the Kundal-Atholi region in Kishtwar, Kashmir, served as the Fourth Buddhist council site, well-protected by mountains and having fertile land to sustain the council attendees. The Kanika Chorten in Zanskar valley is suggested as not only the housing stupa of the engraved copper plates but also the Buddha's alms bowl, hidden amidst the difficult-to-reach high passes and abundant copper resources.Fountain slabs with water Baolis from Ghora galli to Kundal-Atholi reveal routes to the council, reflecting Kanishka's dedication to Buddhism. Art sculptures of horse riders in the Kesar saga hint at connections between Kesar and King Kanishka's life, aiding in reconstructing Stupa structures using Ghora galli sculptures. The expedition to locate the housing stupa, guided by the Kesar saga, led to Kanika Chorten, and the statues in the cemetery are believed to be made by Kesar of Ling.Verification using metal detectors provided evidence of non-ferrous metal presence under the Kanika chorten's base, supporting the hypothesis. Preservation of Ghora galli, Gool sculptures, water Baolis, and the Fourth Buddhist council location is crucial, as these historical monuments hold immense significance for Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. Unearthing the engraved copper plates will shed light on the Kushan period and Buddhism during Kanishka's reign, honoring the efforts of the people of Zanskar in preserving their historical legacy.