March 04, 2014
Baghbanpura Bazaar, one of Lahore's longest markets, holds a significant historical connection to the Main family. Amidst the bustling row of shops, one building stood out in Baghbanpura Bazaar - the Mian Saheb Haveli, a residence of the esteemed Mian family. The first floor boasted an elegant arcade adorned with a series of beautiful multifoil arches. The front elevation showcased Gothic-inspired columns and other captivating elements. Sadly, the building has fallen into disrepair, with the wooden planks of the roof deteriorating and collapsing.
However, the property remains a subject of dispute, currently locked under a court order. The Mian family, hailing from the Arain tribe of the Punjab region, carries a rich lineage. Originally from Areha Jericho in modern-day Palestine, they entered the Indian Subcontinent with Umayyad Arab General Muhammad bin Qasim in 711 A.D. Over the centuries, the family has made significant contributions to the region and owned the land near Baghbanpura, which eventually became the site of the renowned Shalimar Gardens. In 1641, the family received custodianship of the Shalimar Gardens from the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in exchange for the land.
Today, the descendants of the Mian family of Baghbanpura reside in various new localities of Lahore, carrying forward their legacy and heritage.
