14th August 2022
The Enchanting Tale of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Moran
Sarkar: A Love Story Defying Social Conventions
In the annals of history, the formidable Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab is renowned as a one-eyed warrior and empire builder. However, little is known about his love story with Moran Sarkar, an enchanting dancing girl who captured his heart. This forbidden union between a young king and a Muslim nautch girl defied societal norms, leading to both outrage and admiration. Although often overlooked in historical accounts, Moran Sarkar played a significant role in the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, as evidenced by the mosque named Jamia Masjid Tarro Moran which stands as a testament to their enduring love.
The Fascinating Tale of Moran Sarkar:
Moran Sarkar, a Muslim nautch girl believed to be from
Kashmir and residing in the village of Makhanpur near Amritsar captivated the
young Maharaja Ranjit Singh with her mesmerizing performances. Legend has it
that Ranjit Singh first encountered her graceful dance in the royal Baradari of
Dhanoa Kalan village and was instantly smitten. He bestowed upon her the title
"Moran," meaning "peacock," symbolizing her elegance and
allure.
A Bridge and a Vow of Love:
Another tale associated with Moran Sarkar is linked to a small bridge near the Indo-Pak border in Pul Kanjri village, not far from Amritsar. It is said that as Moran was en route to perform at the Baradari, she lost her anklet or shoe in a canal while crossing it. Filled with fury, she declared that she would not perform until a bridge was constructed over the canal. In a display of unwavering devotion, Maharaja Ranjit Singh promptly built a bridge, which stands to this day and is known as "Pul Moran."
The Unconventional Marriage:
Despite the social uproar it caused, Maharaja Ranjit Singh proposed to Moran Sarkar, willingly accepting the conditions she laid down for their union. One such condition was seeking her father's permission, to which the enamored Ranjit Singh humbly complied. The grand marriage ceremony took place in 1802, commencing with processions from Lahore's Shalimar Bagh. Samad Joo Kashmiri, a renowned noble and wealthy businessman, assumed the role of Moran's father during the festivities, even shouldering all the bride's expenses. The wedding itself is said to have transpired in his haveli in Amritsar.
Moran Sarkar's Role as Queen:
After their marriage, Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Moran Sarkar resided in Lahore, where the Maharaja had a splendid haveli constructed for her in the Papar Mandi area within Shah Alami gate. Historical records testify to Moran's capabilities as a competent administrator, with her own court where she attentively addressed people's grievances. She became a trusted confidante and advisor to the Maharaja, earning the title of "Moran Sarkar" bestowed upon her by the local populace. Additionally, at Moran's request, Maharaja Ranjit Singh commissioned the construction of a mosque near her haveli, known today as Jamia Masjid Tarro Moran (Tarro meaning "revolving" in Persian, a nod to Moran's earlier reputation for her swift spinning movements).
Moran's Enduring Legacy:
Moran Sarkar, affectionately known as Mail Moran in
Pakistan, holds a revered place in the hearts of the residents of Papar Mandi,
Lahore. She is regarded as a benevolent queen who tirelessly worked for the
welfare of the people. Notably, during her time, the Sikh empire's mint
introduced a series of coins known
