Situated in the northeastern part of the historic city of Depalpur, lies a hidden gem known as the monastery of Lal Jas Raj. This architectural marvel showcases a fusion of exquisite elements, including intricately decorated doors with latches, elegant jharokhas, captivating bay windows, and masterfully crafted cut brickwork. However, the most captivating aspect of this ancient site is the spiritual significance it holds for the local people, who venerate Lal Jas Raj as a revered guru.
Interestingly, our visit to this monastery was not originally part of our itinerary. In fact, we were completely unaware of its existence until our friend Adnan Tariq, a knowledgeable local resident of Depalpur, enlightened us about this remarkable place. Little did we know that we were about to discover a hidden treasure of historical and cultural significance.
The origins of Depalpur itself are shrouded in mystery and various theories surround its foundation. One account attributes its establishment to Raja Deva Pala, a figure about whom historical records provide scant information. Nevertheless, the antiquity of Depalpur is beyond doubt, as the ground level on which the present-day houses stand aligns seamlessly with the ramparts of the city's fort. The abundance of ancient coins found in this area further attests to Depalpur's existence as far back as the time of the Indo-Scythians. Historical records trace the mention of Depalpur to the military campaign of Muhammad bin Qasim in 714 AD when he advanced toward Kashmir after capturing Multan. However, the discovery of ancient coins suggests that the city had already thrived for centuries prior to this event.
According to an alternative source, Raja Dipa Chand, the founder of Depalpur, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the city. Lal Jas Raj, the monastery's namesake, was the beloved son of Raja Dipa Chand. Tragically, Lal Jas Raj met a fateful end, being swallowed by the earth due to a curse inflicted upon him by his stepmother, Rani Dholran. Overwhelmed by grief and in remembrance of his beloved son, Raja Dipa Chand erected this monastery as a testament to their bond. Today, the chamber within the monastery has fallen into disrepair, with jammed doors and a stairway repurposed for storage. The structure itself stands as a poignant symbol of the passage of time, its once-grand stature now succumbing to the ravages of nature.
Local residents fondly recall the grand annual "mela" (fair) that used to take place within the monastery's grounds. This festive gathering brought people together, fostering a sense of community and celebration. Additionally, the monastery served as a sacred site for Hindu devotees to perform the Sardukahr, a religious ceremony. However, since the partition, the influx of visitors has dwindled, and the monastery now stands in solitude, longing for the days when its halls echoed with laughter and devotion.
These captivating details and historical accounts are sourced from the esteemed Archaeological Survey of India, specifically from the 1872-73 report authored by Alexander Cunningham, the Director General of the organization. Through diligent research and exploration, these accounts shed light on the rich heritage and cultural significance that the monastery of Lal Jas Raj possesses.
