Monday, 29 August 2022

The 17th century shrine of Hazrat Miskin Shah Amri Lahore

28th August 2022


Located at the beginning of Shami Road, adjacent to the Shell petrol pump, stands the shrine of Hazrat Miskin Shah Amri, representing an architectural marvel from the middle Mughal period. Hazrat Miskin Shah Amri, originally known as Inayat Ullah, was a revered disciple of Hazrat Mian Mir Saheb (RA) and left a profound impact on the spiritual realm. He passed away in 1647 A.D., leaving behind a legacy of devotion and enlightenment. The shrine was established in his honor under the patronage of Prince Dara Shikoh, a notable figure of that time.

The shrine's dome is situated at the center of a sturdy masonry platform, serving as a prominent feature of the architectural ensemble. The walls of the shrine were once adorned with intricate enameled pottery work, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. However, during the Sikh era, these embellishments were unfortunately removed, diminishing the splendor of the shrine.

The original tomb of Hazrat Miskin Shah Amri featured an elegant dome supported by a small brick masonry structure. Remarkably, this original structure has survived the test of time and remains intact. However, an additional small structure has been erected on the western side of the original tomb, adorned with four smaller domes and four minarets. These later additions contribute to the visual grandeur of the shrine. Notably, the embellishments added to the shrine over time include decorative elements in shades of dark green and other colors, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

The shrine of Hazrat Miskin Shah Amri stands as a testament to the architectural and spiritual heritage of the Mughal era. Despite the loss of some of its original embellishments, the shrine continues to draw devotees and visitors who seek solace and spiritual connection within its sacred space.