Faridkot Block King Edward University

 December 30, 2017

The First Medical College building was of the Anatomy Department. However, it went through

timely alterations in 1887, 1892, and subsequently in 1915. The original entrance to the main

hall faced South in beginning but later faced North indicating modifications through a donation

by the Nawab of Faridkot.

The present-day building famously known as the Patiala block of King Edward Medical College is not

the actual structure that was constructed in 1883. The newly constructed building known as

Patiala block was established and inaugurated in 1915 by Lord Hardinge of Penshurst, Viceroy, and Governor General of India. Both Patiala block and Bahawalpur block were constructed in

the colonial era of the British Raj and they were the extension projects of 1914 and 1916

respectively. Patiala block was built as the replica of the Palace of Nawab Bhupinder Singh Marble

from mines of Balochistan, teakwood from Burma, and sandstone from various states in India

was brought to build the architectural masterpieces. The building comprises of an administrative office, a large library cum examination hall, four lecture theatres, a museum, a council room, and common rooms for staff and students. This block was named after Nawab Bhupinder Singh

of Patiala (October 1891- March 1938) who was famous for his bold architectural designs and

construction of buildings. He donated generous funds and was known for his extravagance. It was

an expansive structure by any standards where Burma teakwood was used extensively. The façade

of Patiala has two balanced wings on its sides with a central dome and a pattern of three arches

along with a domed tower. This well-designed symmetrical building is elegant not only in its

structure but also in its function. This charismatic building has different architectural features.

which are symbolic representations of various dynasties and the portico, which has an archway entrance from East to West. Inside the portico, dado work is used for decoration in the form of cartouche and crown with lotus ower which represents Buddhism. The entrance corridor is ornamented with different types of architectural features, pilaster, inverted cone (latu), dental frieze, corbel, and brackets. On entering through the portico in a hall which has a central wooden staircase. The quarter landing staircase with three types of newel posts has been used for central staircase. This wooden staircase is infiuenced by the Victorian (1870 to 1910) style. Then there are marble slabs one of which carries names of the donors, another of graduates of the college who laid their lives for the countrymen. Square collar column are used in this block which are divided into three parts including capital, shaft and base like human body. The columns have ionic type capitals which are decorated simply with a design of diamond. Before going to the main library hall there is a corridor that gives the look of an arcade but actually is the placement of collar columns. The Main Library Hall has a tapered roof and this significant and historical hall has also been used for shooting of many films. The structure or design of the Patiala Block is not only an Imperial stamp of the British Raj. It also shows the cross-cultural connection of ingenious and foreign elements in architectural language. The domes of the building both in Patiala block and Bahawalpur block have pendative or Byzantine style with an imposed circular dome above. The domed towers of both buildings are similar in structure to the minarets of Sheesh Mahal of Palace in Patiala built in the 19th century by Maharaja Narinder Singh and Sheesh Mahal of Lahore Mughal Fort. 

In 1909, Lt. Col. D.W. Sutherland, King Edward Memorial Fund was launched 1910 to expand the facilities of the college, Mayo Hospital, Albert Victor Block, and Lady Aitchison Hospital. Lahore Medical College was renamed as King Edward Medical College st on 21 December 1911. Dr. Sutherland worked hard for the progress of this newly named institution. A stroke of good fortune came in the form of the King Edward Medical Memorial Fund. Lt. Col D.W. Sutherland became Principal of the King Edward College. “The naming of Lahore Medical School to King Edward medical college has an intriguing history of its own. The college was named after Edward VII. As expected from a King, Edward VII lived a life of luxury but with bad health. Edward contracted typhoid, the disease that was believed to have killed his father King Albert. There was a great national concern, as a King, he had numerous responsibilities. Therefore, he needed immediate medical attention. Sadly, that was not properly available at that time. Towards the end of his life, he suffered from pneumonia. Also, his wife, Alexandra of Denmark, suffered from Otosclerosis, a congenital disease. He died on 16 May 1910 from pneumonia. King George V, son of Edward VII, established this memorial fund in recognition of the need of providing medical treatment to the common people, as a service to humanity and as an homage to his parents”. (Haider 2018) In 2006 KEMC was upgraded to King Edward Medical University. Prof. Dr. Mumtaz Hasan (Sitara-Imtiaz) became the first Vice Chancellor of KEMU

Samadhi of Bhai Vasti Ram

29th July 2022

Bhai Vasti Ram (1708-1802) was a revered figure in Sikh history and a remarkable personality in his own right. Born as the distinguished son of Bhai Bulaka Singh, who is believed to have accompanied Guru Gobind Singh on his journey to the South in 1707, Bhai Vasti Ram carried forward his family's legacy of devotion and service to the Sikh community. After being blessed by Guru Gobind Singh, Bhai Bulaka Singh returned to Lahore, where Vasti Ram was raised and came of age.

Living during a tumultuous era marked by persecution of the Sikhs, Vasti Ram witnessed the trials and tribulations faced by his community. However, he also witnessed their eventual rise to power in Punjab. Inspired by his faith and a desire to alleviate the suffering of others, he dedicated himself to the study of medicine. He became renowned for his expertise in utilizing native herbs and remedies for healing purposes. What set him apart was not just his medical knowledge, but his selfless approach to providing care. Bhai Vasti Ram treated his patients without any charges, embodying the principles of compassion and service.

News of Bhai Vasti Ram's miraculous healing abilities and his unwavering faith spread far and wide, elevating his status to that of a saintly figure. Esteemed Sikh chiefs, including Jassa Singh Ahluwalia and the Bharigi sardars Lahina Singh, Gujjar Singh, Ganda Singh, and Jhanda Singh, sought his blessings, recognizing his spiritual eminence. Even Maharaja Ranjit Singh, in the early years of his career, became a devout follower of Bhai Vasti Ram and attributed his victory in the Battle of Bhasin (1800) to the blessings bestowed upon him by the revered saint.

At the age of 94, in 1802, Bhai Vasti Ram passed away, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual guidance and healing. As a mark of reverence, a marble samadhi (memorial) was erected near the Lahore Fort, where his cremation took place. Maharaja Ranjit Singh himself would visit the samadhi annually to commemorate the death anniversary of his beloved spiritual guide.

Tragically, in the aftermath of the unsettling Babri Mosque incident in 1992, the samadhi of Bhai Vasti Ram, along with other historical structures like the Jain Mandir, fell victim to the destructive rage of an angry mob. This act of wanton destruction deprived future generations of the opportunity to witness and appreciate the architectural and historical significance of the samadhi.

The architectural composition of Samadhi Bhai Vasti Ram beautifully exemplified the fusion of Hindu and Muslim influences, reflective of the vibrant Sikh milieu of the time. Though modest compared to the grandeur of the nearby Lahore Fort, the samadhi's exterior was adorned with intricate white marble carvings, capturing the eye with its captivating details. Once adorned with semi-precious multicolored stones arranged in elaborate floral patterns, it exuded an exquisite elegance. The main entrance, facing north, was situated on a square podium, and a previously existing tank with enchanting fountains added to the charm of the surroundings, although regrettably, it no longer exists today.

Sohail Gate Rohtas

May 5, 2013

This gate is the finest specimen of the world of Sher Shah’s time. Traditionally the gate derives its name from a famous saint named Sohail Bukhari, buried in the southwestern bastion of the gate. To some others, however, its name appears to have been taken from the Sohail Star which rises on this side of the fort. 

On the apex of the inner central arch is a miniature oriel window, made probably to balance the view. On the crest of the gate, there are very solidly constructed seven merlons, two of them in halves. The central five merlons beat machicolations of conical shape with loopholes on either side. The two bastions which are of formidable shape are with a full battlement. To break the monotony, loopholes and machicolations are provided ultimately on the battlements. 

Phansi Ghat of Rohtas and alluring view of Sacred hill of Tilla Jogian in Background

 May 5, 2013

Phansi Ghat, also known as the Gallows, is a solemn place where the punishment of hanging is carried out for convicted criminals. This macabre practice was prevalent in the sub-continent, and many of the Gallows were strategically constructed within forts. One such structure that I personally witnessed was located within the Rohtas Fort. 

Situated on a raised platform along the northwest boundary wall of the fort, the Gallows in Rohtas Fort commanded attention. Its design featured an imposing arch gateway at its entrance, further emphasizing its significance. The positioning of the Gallows was carefully chosen, ensuring visibility from various points within the fort. This deliberate placement served as a somber reminder to all those within the fort of the consequences of defying the law.

As one stood near the Gallows, an enchanting backdrop greeted the eye—the majestic sight of the Sacred Hill of Tilla Jogian. This juxtaposition of beauty and grimness created a poignant atmosphere. It's hard not to wonder if the souls of those about to meet their demise gazed upon the serene hill, perhaps finding solace in their final moments as they contemplated eternity.

Remnants of Sitla Mata Mandir Lahore

SHRINE (TOMB) OF SITLA MATA

Location On the side of the Circular Road, outside the Walled

city, between the Shah Almi Gate and Lohari

gate.

Seetla Mata, a prominent figure in Punjabi folk religion, is a revered deity associated with the worship and recovery from smallpox and chickenpox. The origins of the Seetla Mata cult can be traced back to the prehistoric period, with links to the ancient Harappan civilization. In fact, an intriguing connection to Seetla Mata and her six sisters can be found on one of the seals discovered in Harappa. The seal portrays seven girls with long hair, believed to represent Seetla Mata and her divine siblings.

Among the numerous temples dedicated to Seetla Mata, one significant pre-partition temple stood in Lahore, located on Circular Road. Unfortunately, the ravages of time have caused extensive destruction, leaving only the front arch gateway as a remnant of its former glory. The entrance gateway, standing tall and commanding, once featured a window in the middle with an elegantly adorned wooden balcony, adorned with a multifoil arch. Although the passage of time has erased much of the intricate geometric designs that once adorned the surface, faint traces of floral work can still be discerned on the spandrel. Above the multifoil arch gateway, an arcade with four semi-circular arches stood, accompanied by galleries in the front.

Adding to the historical significance of the temple, a marble plaque graces the edifice, bearing an inscription that indicates the construction of this complex took place on the 14th of February, 1916.

However, following the partition of 1947, the temple complex fell into disrepair and was occupied by migrant families. Sadly, little effort has been made to preserve or restore this valuable heritage site of cultural importance. The neglect and lack of maintenance have resulted in the gradual deterioration of the temple, diminishing its architectural splendor and historical significance.

The presence of the Seetla Mata temple in Lahore served as a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions. It offered a place of worship and solace for devotees seeking the blessings and protection of Seetla Mata during times of illness. The temple's architectural elements, although weathered by time, still hinted at the grandeur and artistic prowess of the past. It is regrettable that this precious site, with its deep-rooted historical connections and religious importance, has been neglected and left to decay.

Efforts should be undertaken to restore and preserve this cultural gem, not only to honor the legacy of Seetla Mata but also to ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from the architectural and religious heritage embedded within its walls. By recognizing and valuing the importance of such sites, we can safeguard our shared cultural history for years to come.

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Tomb of ustad nuriya

 February 9, 2014

The tomb of Ustad Nuriya stands in the northwest corner of Uch Sharif on a low hillside, the site of an old fort, amid the ruins of several other architecturally significant tombs, among them the tombs of Bibi Jawindi and Baha'al-Halim.

The proposed property consists of 5 monuments at the South-West corner of Uch Sharif- representing the town’s most exceptional architecture.

Shah Chand wali Gate (Rohtas Fort)

 May 5, 2013

Rohtas Fort, situated near the city of Jhelum in Punjab, Pakistan, is a renowned historical garrison fort constructed in the 16th century by Sher Shah Suri. The purpose of its construction was to quell the uprisings of rebellious tribes in the northern Punjab region.

Within the fort, there exists a significant gateway that connects the citadel to the main fort. This gateway bears the name of Saint Shah Chandwali, who selflessly declined to accept any remuneration for his labor in building the gate. Tragically, the saint passed away while still engrossed in his work, and he was interred near the gateway. Even today, his shrine stands as a testament to his devotion.

Furthermore, this gateway possesses a distinctive feature as it comprises two gates. The outer gate, accessible from the citadel, spans an impressive width of 13.3 meters and a depth of 8.23 meters. In contrast, the inner gate takes the form of a simple archway, measuring 3.66 meters in width.