Ali Usman Baig

Saturday, 6 May 2023

Remains of a Hindu Temple, Cremation Ground and plate form in Wazirabad

23^rd April 2023

Lala Chaddhamal was a prominent businessman and philanthropist who lived in Wazirabad, a city in the Gujranwala district of Punjab, Pakistan. He was born in 1865 and is known for his contributions to the development of Wazirabad. He also established several businesses in Wazirabad, including a cotton ginning and pressing factory, a flour mill, and a soap factory. He was also a prominent landlord and owned several agricultural lands in the area. Apart from his business ventures, Lala Chaddhamal was known for his philanthropic activities. He donated generously to several charitable organizations and helped fund the construction of several public facilities in Wazirabad.

In the suburbs of Wazirabad, remains of a small Hindu temple (Shivala), cremation ground (Shamshan Ghat), and platform are still present. They were all named after Lala Chaddhamal, who built these facilities for the Hindu community of Wazirabad for performing religious rituals for the deceased. At present, the cremation ground is disappeared: and the Hindu temple and cremation platforms are still standing however in a decrepit state.

Cremation Platform

Sher Shah Suri Stepwell (Baoli) at Wazirabad

23rd April 2023

Saifur Rehman Dar, a renowned archaeologist from Pakistan, has left an indelible mark on the field of archaeology with his significant contributions. In his seminal article, "Caravanserais along the Grand Trunk in Pakistan," Dar sheds light on the ancient origins of the Grand Trunk Road, a historic highway that stretches across several Indian states, from Calcutta to Peshawar, with a history dating back approximately 2500 years.

During the medieval period, Sher Shah Suri, a visionary Indian emperor who reigned over the northern regions of the Indian subcontinent from 1540 to 1545, played a pivotal role in the construction of the Grand Trunk Road. Alongside this monumental achievement, Sher Shah Suri also spearheaded the creation of numerous caravanserais, forts, fortified towns, milestones, army posts, Dak posts, stepped wells, and shaded groves along this ancient highway.

In his meticulous survey conducted from 1987 to 1989, Sir Saifur Rehman Dar meticulously documented the remnants that still existed along the Grand Trunk Road. Notably, he highlighted a remarkable stepped well, belonging to the era of Sher Shah Suri, located outside the village of Dhaunkal in Wazirabad.

A stepwell is a type of well in which the water is reached by descending a set of steps. The Dhaunkal stepped-well was in extremely decrepit condition and luckily got repaired in recent years before totally got vanishing from the scenes. The first and most obvious feature of stepwells is the steps themselves, in the current structure the steps are wide enough to accommodate both humans and animals to reach directly up to the water table. The last thread of the stepwell ends on the large platform having a roof present on the top. This platform has a staircase on one end and a cylinder well on the other supported by elegant arches.

Another key feature of stepwells is the shaft or well itself, which is typically cylindrical in shape. The well is usually dug deep into the ground to reach the water table, and the walls are often lined with stone or brick to prevent collapse. The Dhaunkal well has dried up for ages and now only historical monuments are left at this site.

Many stepwells also feature small chambers or rooms, serving various purposes. Some were designated for storage, while others held religious or ceremonial importance. Similarly, within the Dhaunkal stepped well, a rectangular room can be found, adorned with arched openings on all four sides. A staircase positioned in one of the corners allows access to the roof of this room, completing the intricate architectural design.

Through the work of Saifur Rehman Dar, the secrets of stepwells are unveiled, offering us a glimpse into the past and the ingenuity of those who came before us. These marvels of architecture stand as testaments to the rich history and cultural heritage of Pakistan. By recognizing and preserving these historical treasures, we ensure that future generations can continue to marvel at the architectural splendor and appreciate the profound legacy they represent.

Tuesday, 2 May 2023

The King of Leather: Sheikhan Di Khoti Wazirabad

23rd April 2023

Sheikh Niaz Ahmed's Mansion: A Testament to Hindustan's Rich Heritage

Introduction:

In the era of British rule in Hindustan, only two tanneries dotted the country's landscape, one of which was in Cawnpore and the other in Wazirabad. Under the astute administration of Sheikh Niaz Ahmed, the Wazirabad Tannery thrived. Not only was Sheikh Niaz a prominent figure in the leather industry, but he also hailed from Wazirabad and erected a magnificent mansion for himself, a testament to his success and stature. Completed in 1929 at a cost of one Lac rupees, this mansion, known as 'Sheikh wali Khoti,' still stands proudly on Lt. Arif Shaheed Road, across from the city courts.

Architectural Grandeur:

The two-story mansion exudes an aura of grandeur and opulence, reminiscent of a palace. Elaborate lancet arches in the Gothic style grace the front arcade on the ground floor, accentuating its elegance. A majestic Victorian-style porch occupies the central portion of the facade, capturing the attention of all who pass by. The meticulous craftsmanship is evident in the use of English bond bricks, which lend strength and structure to the building. Intricate column ribs and an ornate exterior cornice, all meticulously designed with elegant cut bricks, further embellish the mansion's exterior.

A Fusion of Architectural Styles:

The mansion is a prime example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a style that emerged and gained prominence during the colonial period in India. This architectural blend masterfully incorporates elements from Indian, Islamic, and European styles. Oval-shaped ventilators, a common feature in colonial architecture to ensure ventilation in hot and humid climates, are also present in the mansion's front elevation. The first floor boasts rectangular windows and square ventilators, both adorned with curved tops. Such intricate detailing highlights the seamless fusion of various architectural influences.

A Testament to the Changing Landscape:

According to our local host, a resident of Wazirabad, the mansion was once surrounded by a vast jungle that has since been lost to the march of urbanization. The concrete jungle has replaced the natural beauty that once enveloped the estate. Adjacent to the mansion, in a state of disrepair, lie the servant quarters and a mosque that Sheikh Niaz himself constructed, reflecting the passage of time and neglect.

Sheikh Niaz Ahmed: A Man of Honor:

Sheikh Niaz Ahmed was renowned for his unwavering integrity and expertise in the leather industry. His dedication earned him the respect of the British, who recognized his contributions by presenting him with a watch as a token of appreciation. In due course, he was bestowed with the title of honorary magistrate by the Queen of Britain, further cementing his reputation. When Sheikh Niaz passed away, the British newspaper's headline the following day read, "The King of Leather has died," a testament to his prominence and the impact he had made in his field.

Legacy and Remembrance:

Years later, after the formation of Pakistan, Sheikh Niaz's son, Arif, sacrificed his life in the 1971 war. In honor of his gallantry and sacrifice, the road in front of the mansion was named "Lt. Arif Shaheed Road." This poignant tribute perpetuates the memory of Sheikh Niaz's family's sacrifices and their contributions to the nation.

Unspoken Stories of Wazirabad's Illustrious Past:

Known among the commoners of Wazirabad as 'Sheikh wali Khoti,' this magnificent mansion encapsulates the rich and storied history of the city. It stands as a testament to the bygone era of Hindustan's grandeur and Sheikh Niaz Ahmed's enduring legacy. Concealed within its walls are untold stories of triumph, heritage, and the fusion of cultures that shaped the region's history.

Conclusion:

Sheikh Niaz Ahmed's mansion in Wazirabad stands as a testament to the grandeur of Hindustan's past. Its architectural magnificence, blending elements of Indian, Islamic, and European styles, is a remarkable example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The mansion's rich history, from Sheikh Niaz's achievements in the leather industry to his son's sacrifice for the nation, adds layers of significance to its legacy. As 'Sheikh wali Khoti,' it remains a cherished symbol of Wazirabad's illustrious past and a beacon of heritage for generations to come.

The mosque built by Sheikh Niaz

Mosque

Servant rooms

Friday, 28 April 2023

The Last left Hindu Temple of Kunjah and history of the town

23rd April 2023

Once a humble village in the Gujrat district, Kunjah has transformed into a vibrant modern town. An old Hindu temple stands tall among the new developments and bustling streets, bearing witness to a golden past. This dilapidated structure, dating back to the early 20th century, showcases a vertical spire rising from the sanctum, overlooking what was once a prayer hall but now serves as a residential area. Unfortunately, the fate of this temple mirrors that of many other Hindu temples in Punjab, Pakistan. Adjacent to it, a parking stand now occupies the space once a serene pond, an integral part of this sacred temple.

Before the fateful partition of 1947, Kunjah boasted a diverse community, harmoniously coexisting with followers of different religions. Remnants of several elegant pre-partition Hindu buildings can still be found within the city, albeit most of them are now inhabited by migrant families who settled here after the partition. These architectural marvels are a testament to a rich cultural heritage and a reminder of the vibrant past that Kunjah once embraced.

The traces of human settlements in Kunjah can be traced back to the 4th century BC, offering a glimpse into the town's ancient origins. Some historians speculate that the place derived its name from Raja Kanjpal, while others attribute its significance to Ibrahim of Ghazna (1033 to 1099 AD), also known as Ibrahim Bin Masood, who utilized Kunjah as a base for his campaigns in Hindustan. Throughout medieval times, Kunjah remained strategically important, and during the Mughal period, King Alamgir graced the town with his presence. A mosque, named after him, once adorned the area, symbolizing its historical and religious significance.

In its prime, Kunjah was a fortified city, protected by robust walls that served as a defense against invading forces. Not too long ago, remnants of various monuments from the Sikh period could still be found, offering glimpses into the town's illustrious past. These included temples, samadhis, gardens, two palaces, a fort, a grand pool, a gurudwara later converted to a Mazaar, and a shamshan ghat (cremation ground). Regrettably, the passage of time has eroded these historical edifices, leaving only a handful of sites that continue to stand today. The aforementioned Hindu temple, with its weathered grandeur, serves as a poignant reminder of the town's history, while the Baradari from the Sikh era still echoes tales of its former glory.

As Kunjah evolves into a modern town, it is crucial to recognize the significance of its historical heritage. Preserving and safeguarding these remaining historical sites is essential to honor the town's diverse cultural past and to offer future generations a glimpse into their roots. By embracing and cherishing its rich history, Kunjah can pave the way for a harmonious future where the old and the new coexist, bridging the gap between eras and celebrating the town's remarkable journey through time.

Pond

Thursday, 27 April 2023

𝐒𝐚𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐤𝐡 𝐒𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐭 (Pictorial Blog)

07th March 2018