The Last left Hindu Temple of Kunjah and history of the town

23rd April 2023

(All images copyright 2023 Mirza Ali Usman Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research)

Once a humble village in the Gujrat district, Kunjah has transformed into a vibrant modern town. An old Hindu temple stands tall among the new developments and bustling streets, bearing witness to a golden past. This dilapidated structure, dating back to the early 20th century, showcases a vertical spire rising from the sanctum, overlooking what was once a prayer hall but now serves as a residential area. Unfortunately, the fate of this temple mirrors that of many other Hindu temples in Punjab, Pakistan. Adjacent to it, a parking stand now occupies the space once a serene pond, an integral part of this sacred temple.

Before the fateful partition of 1947, Kunjah boasted a diverse community, harmoniously coexisting with followers of different religions. Remnants of several elegant pre-partition Hindu buildings can still be found within the city, albeit most of them are now inhabited by migrant families who settled here after the partition. These architectural marvels are a testament to a rich cultural heritage and a reminder of the vibrant past that Kunjah once embraced.

The traces of human settlements in Kunjah can be traced back to the 4th century BC, offering a glimpse into the town's ancient origins. Some historians speculate that the place derived its name from Raja Kanjpal, while others attribute its significance to Ibrahim of Ghazna (1033 to 1099 AD), also known as Ibrahim Bin Masood, who utilized Kunjah as a base for his campaigns in Hindustan. Throughout medieval times, Kunjah remained strategically important, and during the Mughal period, King Alamgir graced the town with his presence. A mosque, named after him, once adorned the area, symbolizing its historical and religious significance.

In its prime, Kunjah was a fortified city, protected by robust walls that served as a defense against invading forces. Not too long ago, remnants of various monuments from the Sikh period could still be found, offering glimpses into the town's illustrious past. These included temples, samadhis, gardens, two palaces, a fort, a grand pool, a gurudwara later converted to a Mazaar, and a shamshan ghat (cremation ground). Regrettably, the passage of time has eroded these historical edifices, leaving only a handful of sites that continue to stand today. The aforementioned Hindu temple, with its weathered grandeur, serves as a poignant reminder of the town's history, while the Baradari from the Sikh era still echoes tales of its former glory.

As Kunjah evolves into a modern town, it is crucial to recognize the significance of its historical heritage. Preserving and safeguarding these remaining historical sites is essential to honor the town's diverse cultural past and to offer future generations a glimpse into their roots. By embracing and cherishing its rich history, Kunjah can pave the way for a harmonious future where the old and the new coexist, bridging the gap between eras and celebrating the town's remarkable journey through time.

Pond

𝐒𝐚𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐤𝐡 𝐒𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐭 (Pictorial Blog)

 

07th March 2018

(All images copyright 2018 Mirza Ali Usman Baig)

Omar Hayat Palace Chiniot

 06th March 201

(All pictures in this blog are photographed by the author, research references from different archaeological papers)

Nestled in the enchanting town of Chiniot, Pakistan stands the Omar Hayat Mahal, also known as Gulzar Manzil, a true marvel of early 20th-century architecture. This wooden haveli mansion showcases the grandeur of late Mughal craftsmanship, boasting intricate carvings, mesmerizing frescoes, captivating roof mosaic designs, and stunning woodwork.

The sheer beauty of the building is awe-inspiring. Every detail, from the patterns adorning its walls to the carefully chosen colors and textures, is a testament to the masterful artistry of its creators. The architectural embellishments found within the Omar Hayat Mahal are unparalleled, setting it apart from its contemporaries of the time.

At the entrance, a towering two-story pointed multifoil arch welcomes visitors. Interestingly, this arch is not precisely centered, adding a touch of intrigue to the structure. Nestled within this arch, an elegant wooden jharokha, or balcony, showcases the intricate craftsmanship that adorns the mansion. Moving to the front elevation, a series of blind and four-centered arches grace the windows, further enhancing the facade. The front exterior is painted a soft pink hue, while the dilapidated condition of the wooden balconies on the third floor evokes a sense of melancholy.

The construction of this magnificent mansion commenced in 1923 and reached completion in 1935. Sheikh Omar Hayat, a Chinioti businessman who had amassed his fortune in Calcutta, undertook its creation. Having faced ostracism from his family for marrying against their wishes, Sheikh Omar migrated from Chiniot to Calcutta in the late 19th century. During the British era, many members of Chiniot's Sheikh tribe had settled in Calcutta. In 1920, Sheikh Omar welcomed his first son, Gulzar, which prompted his decision to return to his hometown. Determined to showcase the finest craftsmanship Chiniot had to offer, Sheikh Omar embarked on the construction of a magnificent palace.

By 1930, the mansion was habitable, and it was finally completed in 1935 at a cost of 200,000 rupees. Tragically, Sheikh Omar passed away shortly after its completion. In an extravagant ceremony in 1937, Gulzar, Sheikh Omar's only son, was married within the palace's opulent halls. However, the joyous occasion was marred by tragedy as Gulzar was found lifeless in the palace the following day. He was laid to rest in the courtyard of the ground floor, and due to superstitions surrounding the unfortunate events, Gulzar's relatives abandoned the building, believing it to be cursed.

In 1948, an orphanage was established within the palace's premises, but it was eventually relocated in 1950, leaving the grand structure abandoned once again. Over time, local scavengers dismantled some of the mansion's decorative elements, selling them to collectors in other cities. The state of disrepair was such that two levels of the mansion had to be removed in the 1970s, and another level was abandoned following heavy rains in 1993.

Fortunately, in 1989, the government took control of the building, and with the support of the local community, extensive repairs were undertaken by the mid-1990s. Today, the mansion serves as a cultural center and library, ensuring its preservation and allowing visitors to appreciate its architectural splendor.