𝐀𝐧 𝐎𝐥𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐪𝐮𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐚 , 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐝

22nd January 2023

Wildlife & old architecture photography are two of my favorite hobbies. However, I don't enjoy doing both at the same time.  I was on a birding trip in Minchinabad when I came across this elegant Mosque present near Munianwala village close to the International Indo-Pak border. I could not stop myself from photographing it.

𝗔𝗻 𝗢𝗹𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗲-𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗶 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗮, 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗱

22nd January 2023

Wildlife & old architecture photography are two of my favorite hobbies. However, I don't enjoy doing both at the same time.  I was on a birding trip in Minchinabad when I came across this elegant pre-partition old Haveli present near Munianwala village close to the International Indo-Pak border. I could not stop myself from photographing it. An arched entrance gate, three-centered arches in the corridor, elegant ventilators, and the use of  Old Nanak Shahi Bricks in Massonary. 

Another Sucha Peer Shrine in Lahore & an Old Banyan Tree

2015

In Punjab, it is not uncommon to come across shrines referred to as "Sucha Pir." One such shrine, bearing a similar name, can be found in the border areas of Lahore while journeying from Manhala towards village Nawar. This particular shrine holds a significant location beneath the shade of an ancient banyan tree.

The shrine of Sucha Pir stands as a place of reverence and devotion for the local community. People from near and far visit this sacred site to seek blessings, offer prayers, and pay homage to the revered saint. It is believed that Sucha Pir, through his spiritual powers and connection with the divine, has the ability to grant wishes and provide solace to those who seek his intercession.

The shrine's surroundings exude an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. The grandeur of the old banyan tree adds a sense of mystique and awe to the place. Its sprawling branches and dense foliage provide a natural canopy under which devotees can engage in contemplation, reflection, and prayer.

𝐍𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐝 2023

22nd January 2023

Nagar Mahal: A Majestic Relic of Bahawalnagar's Glorious Past

Introduction:

Nagar Mahal, a grand pre-partition building situated in Bahawalnagar, stands as a testament to the opulence and refined taste of its former owners. With its remarkable architectural features and a history that spans over 90 years, this majestic structure is located in Minchinabad town, approximately 35 kilometers from Bahawalnagar. Built by the affluent Agarwal brothers, Sheikh Nagar Mal and Bhajan Lal, Nagar Mahal remains a cherished heritage site that continues to captivate visitors to this day.

A Showcase of Wealth and Connoisseurship:

Renowned travel writer Salman Rashid, who had the privilege of exploring Nagar Mahal, describes it as a magnificent display of the Agarwal family's wealth and appreciation for art. In his book, Stone of Empire, Rashid recounts his experience, offering vivid insights into the grandeur of the mansion. The entrance is concealed behind a row of guest rooms, with a high arched doorway leading to the first courtyard, providing a glimpse of the captivating aesthetics that await.

 The Inner Courtyard: A Feast for the Senses:

 Ascending a short flight of stairs, visitors are greeted by a marble doorway adorned with a timber door, leading to the inner courtyard. The entire courtyard is a masterpiece of intricate carvings, featuring an abundance of grapevines, floral motifs, and curvilinear designs. Lord Krishna, depicted in his iconic pose playing the flute, graces the spandrels on either side. The central courtyard, a tradition that spans thousands of years, serves as the heart of the mansion, surrounded by rooms arranged in a square formation behind a veranda. The arches of the veranda openings follow the rich Mughal design, embellished with vibrant floral and curvilinear patterns. Each arch is crowned with a human likeness, possibly representing members of the Agarwal family. While the ground floor adheres to traditional architectural styles, the upper floor boasts an enchanting Italian influence.

A Fateful Transmigration:

The Agarwal brothers' ownership of the grand mansion was short-lived, as they were compelled to leave during the tumultuous events of the partition in 1947. Forced to abandon Nagar Mahal, the property came into the possession of the Sukhera family, who have since cherished and preserved its rich history. Dilshad Hussain Sukhera, a member of the family, reveals that the value of the property in the 1930s was an astounding Rs2.5 million, a truly princely sum for that era. Dilshad's son, Umair Sukhera, adds that their family acquired the haveli in exchange for hundreds of acres of land in Abohar, located in Indian Punjab.

Preserving the Legacy:

For generations, the Sukhera family has nurtured the lore of Nagar Mahal, ensuring its heritage remains alive. Their stewardship has allowed visitors and history enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the splendor of this architectural gem, offering a glimpse into the glorious past of Bahawalnagar.

Nagar Mahal, a magnificent pre-partition building in Bahawalnagar, is a testament to the Agarwal brothers' wealth and refined taste. With its exquisite architectural features and rich history, this majestic structure has stood the test of time. Despite the Agarwals' departure during the partition, the Sukhera family has lovingly preserved the haveli, keeping its legacy alive. Nagar Mahal stands as a proud reminder of Bahawalnagar's glorious past, captivating visitors with its grandeur and captivating allure.

𝐀 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐭

  07th March 2018