December 06, 2014
(All images copyright 2014 Mirza Ali Usman Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research)
The Kos Minars, constructed by the Mughal emperors from 1556 to 1707 AD, hold fascinating historical significance. The term "Kos" refers to an old measurement representing approximately 3 kilometers, while "Minar" signifies a tower in Persian. These magnificent structures, some towering over 30 feet in height, were initially built by the Mughals to mark their prestigious routes from Agra to Ajmer via Jaipur in the west, Agra to Lahore via Delhi in the north, and Agra to Mandu via Shivpuri in the south. Interestingly, modern highways often follow the same routes outlined by the Kos Minars.
According to Abul Fazl's account in Akbar Nama, in 1575 AD, Emperor Akbar issued a decree stating that at each Kos along the Agra-Ajmer route, a pillar or minar should be erected. This initiative aimed to provide comfort to travelers who may have lost their way, offering them a prominent landmark and a place to rest.
Notably, in the vicinity of Batapur, there exist four pillars resembling Kos Minars, but their history remains shrouded in mystery. These structures stand forlorn in fields, while remnants of two residential quarters nearby exhibit a construction style reminiscent of British architecture on a smaller scale. The question arises as to why these monuments were constructed in this particular area. Two theories provide potential insights into their history.
The first theory revolves around the village of Bhasin, located around 10 kilometers east of Batapur. Bhasin, situated on an ancient mound, has faced destruction from floods on two occasions in the past. Local elders recount a myth suggesting that during the olden days, when the city of Lahore was frequently devastated by floodwaters from the Ravi River, Bhasin remained relatively unscathed due to its higher ground level compared to Lahore. Prior to the partition of 1947, Bhasin was home to a sizable Sikh community, and remnants of splendid Havelis (mansions) and a Samadhi (memorial) can still be found there.
Bhasin also gained prominence due to the "Battle of Bhasin" in 1800 AD. Bhangi chiefs of Lahore, Nizam-ud-Din, Nawab of Kasur, Sahib Singh of Gujarat, and the Ramgarhia Sardars, harboring jealousy towards the rising power of Ranjit Singh, formed a coalition against him. They convened in Bhasin, where they conspired to invite Ranjit Singh and assassinate him.
Ranjit Singh, the Sikh ruler, established his camp in the plains near Bhasin, preparing for the confrontation. For two months, both armies faced each other, engaging in occasional skirmishes, but the coalition against Ranjit Singh hesitated to risk a full-scale war. During this period of prolonged delay, Bhangi Chief Gulab Singh, overcome by intoxication, met his demise, leading his troops to abandon Bhasin. Consequently, other allied forces disintegrated, resulting in Ranjit Singh emerging victorious.
Afterward, Ranjit Singh's troops settled in the vicinity of Batapur, and it is possible that the area housing the pillars served as a cantonment for his army.
The second theory relates to the First Anglo-Sikh War fought between the Sikh Empire and the British East India Company in 1845-1846, primarily around the Ferozepur district of Punjab. The conflict concluded with the defeat and partial subjugation of the Sikh Empire, with Jammu and Kashmir becoming separate princely states under British suzerainty. It is plausible that the area where the pillars are located was utilized as a cantonment during this period.
Both theories offer intriguing possibilities regarding the origins and significance of the pillars near Batapur. Further exploration and research may unravel the true stories behind these enigmatic structures, providing us with a deeper understanding of the rich historical tapestry of the region.
