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.
