Ali Usman Baig

Thursday, 25 May 2023

Gurdwara Kair Sahib (Jai Sukh Wala)

23^rd April 2023

Gurdwara Kair Sahib in the village of Jai Sukh Wala stands as a testament to the revered visit of Sri Guru Nanak Sahib Ji. Situated along the main road from Mandi Bahauddin to Murala, this gurdwara holds immense cultural and religious significance in the Punjab province of Pakistan, particularly within the district of Mandi Bahauddin.

Jai Sukh Wala falls under the jurisdiction of P.S. and Tehsil Mandi-Bahauddin. The addition of "Mandi" to Bahauddin's name occurred following the establishment of a grain market in the area, symbolizing its importance as a commercial hub.

During Guru Nanak's journey, he arrived in the village of Jai Sukh Wala after passing through Dinga. At that time, the villagers were facing the wrath of an angered mystic who intended to curse them as a form of punishment. However, Guru Ji intervened and persuaded the mystic to abandon his plans, emphasizing that the authority to punish lies solely within the domain of God.

Bhai Bhag, the grandson of the aforementioned mystic, is fondly remembered for leading a humble and righteous life. His final resting place, adorned with beauty, can be found beneath the comforting shade of a tree on the opposite side of the Gurdwara's Sarovar.

During the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, also known as Sher-e-Punjab, the magnificent three-story Gurdwara Sahib that we see today was constructed. Adjacent to the Gurdwara, two elegant sarovars were built, with one exclusively designated for women. Additionally, a spacious Sarai was established to provide accommodation for the visiting sangats (congregations). Unfortunately, the building has now been divided among approximately 100 settled families. Moreover, access to the site is restricted by a police official residing in the Prakashasthan (Recitation Room).

To support the Gurdwara, Maharaja Ranjit Singh bestowed an estate with an annual income of 5,000 rupees and 40 squares of agricultural land. The current status of this land remains unknown. Previously, the Gurdwara hosted vibrant fairs during important Sikh festivals such as Visakhi, Chaiter, and Bhadun, attracting a joyous gathering of devotees.

The construction of Gurdwara Kair Sahib stands as a timeless tribute to the visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and its historical significance, architectural splendor, and spiritual importance continue to inspire reverence among followers of the Sikh faith.

Pre-partition Buildings of Kair Bawa Village

23^rd April 2023

Kair Bawa village, located in the Mandi Bahauddin district, is a quaint and picturesque village nestled just under a kilometer away from the bustling village of Jaisak. In the bygone era, Kair Bawa boasted a significant Sikh population prior to the partition. The village proudly holds within its boundaries a renowned historic Gurdwara known as Kair Sahib, serving as a testament to its rich heritage. Furthermore, the village is adorned with the presence of the revered 'Baba Namana' shrine.

Once a thriving Sikh village, Kair Bawa now primarily consists of families who have migrated and settled here from Punjab, India. This migration has contributed to the village's historical significance, as it houses a splendid Gurdwara built in 1916, complete with a serene pond and grand Bara Darries (guestrooms). Unfortunately, the passage of time has taken its toll, and due to negligence, the village's condition has become quite deplorable.

The once enchanting pond has been transformed into Johar Talab, and its water level has drastically receded, leaving the land surrounding it significantly lower. As you traverse the village, you'll encounter numerous pre-partition buildings that have managed to withstand the test of time. Notable among these architectural wonders are a tall gateway and a fort-like haveli, exuding an aura of regality.

Tuesday, 23 May 2023

Unveiling the Intense Duel: Ethological Insights into the Territorial Battle of Male Snipes -- Lahore

Lahore 

May 2023

This documentation presents an ethological observation of a territorial dispute between two male snipes

Upon entering the observation site, both male snipes were observed displaying a series of aggressive behaviors indicative of territorial defense. These behaviors included vocalizations, wing displays, and posturing. As the confrontation escalated, the snipes began engaging in physical combat, employing their long, slender bills as weapons. They darted and lunged at each other, attempting to establish dominance through their aggressive displays.

Discovering Lahore's Hidden Avian Gem: The Indian Scops Owl

Introduction:

Lahore, a bustling city in Pakistan, is not commonly associated with the presence of exotic bird species. However, on the 30th of April 2021, a remarkable sighting took place within the city limits - the sighting of an Indian Scops Owl. This rare and elusive bird became the first recorded sighting of its kind in Lahore. This essay delves into the significance of this finding, shedding light on the Indian Scops Owl and its unexpected appearance in Lahore Safari Park.

The Indian Scops Owl:

The Indian Scops Owl (Otus bakkamoena) is a small, nocturnal owl species native to South Asia. It possesses distinct features, including a compact body, tufted ears, and piercing yellow eyes. Its plumage consists of intricate patterns and shades of brown, helping it blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings. These owls are known for their distinct vocalizations, often emitting a series of soft, repetitive hoots during the nighttime hours.

Lahore Safari Park: An Unexpected Habitat:

Lahore Safari Park, a sprawling green space within the city, is renowned for wildlife and lush vegetation. It provides a sanctuary for a wide range of native bird species. However, the sighting of an Indian Scops Owl within this urban oasis was unprecedented, catching the attention of bird enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

The Significance of the Sighting:

The sighting of an Indian Scops Owl in Lahore holds great significance for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights the city's potential as an important habitat for various avian species, even those not commonly associated with urban environments. The presence of the owl suggests that Lahore's ecological diversity extends beyond what meets the eye, emphasizing the need for further exploration and conservation efforts.

Furthermore, the sighting serves as a reminder of the importance of protected areas like Lahore Safari Park. These green spaces provide a haven for wildlife, offering refuge and breeding grounds for species that may be facing habitat loss and degradation elsewhere. It underscores the role of urban parks and reserves in preserving biodiversity and creating opportunities for unique encounters with nature.

Conservation Implications:

The appearance of the Indian Scops Owl in Lahore prompts contemplation regarding the conservation of urban ecosystems. As cities expand and encroach upon natural habitats, the survival of various species becomes increasingly threatened. This sighting serves as a call to action, urging authorities and communities to prioritize the preservation and restoration of green spaces within urban areas. By safeguarding these habitats, we can create opportunities for birds and other wildlife to thrive amidst the concrete jungles.

"Lahore's Vanishing Avian Beauty: The Imperiled Pheasant-tailed Jacanas"

14th May 2023

These could possibly be the final glimpses of Lahore's avian beauty, as three Pheasant-tailed Jacanas can be seen together. The urbanization of the city has resulted in the loss of many of its marshy regions, making it increasingly difficult for these birds to find in the city.

The paragraph highlights the potential decline of Lahore's avian beauty and specifically focuses on the presence of three Pheasant-tailed Jacanas, indicating that their sighting might become increasingly rare.

The Pheasant-tailed Jacana is a species of bird known for its vibrant colors and long, slender legs. It is primarily found in wetland areas and marshes, where it can navigate through the vegetation using its long toes. However, the urbanization of Lahore, the city being referred to, has led to the destruction and loss of many of these marshy regions.

Urbanization involves the expansion of cities, which often results in the conversion of natural habitats into built-up areas, infrastructure, and human settlements. As a consequence, the wetlands and marshes in Lahore have been significantly reduced in size or completely eliminated, giving way to residential and commercial developments.

The reduction in marshy regions has negatively impacted the Pheasant-tailed Jacanas and their ability to find suitable habitats within the city. These birds rely on wetland environments for foraging, breeding, and nesting. Marshes provide them with ample food sources, such as insects, aquatic invertebrates, and plant matter. Additionally, the dense vegetation and shallow water in marshes offer protection from predators.

With the loss of marshy regions due to urbanization, the Pheasant-tailed Jacanas face challenges in finding suitable areas to feed and reproduce. The remaining wetlands may be fragmented, isolated, or insufficient in size, unable to support healthy populations of these birds. Consequently, the sighting of three Pheasant-tailed Jacanas together in Lahore could be considered a rarity, potentially indicating a decline in their population within the city.

The paragraph implies that these glimpses of avian beauty might be among the last ones, suggesting that if the trend of urbanization and habitat loss continues, the Pheasant-tailed Jacanas may eventually disappear from Lahore altogether. This serves as a reminder of the impact that human activities can have on the natural world and the importance of conservation efforts to preserve biodiversity and protect vulnerable species.

Baba Namana: Embracing Unity Amidst Diverse Spiritual Traditions in Sub-continent.

23^rd April 2023

The subcontinent's spiritual traditions go beyond conventional religion, encompassing diverse practices that explore human spirituality and personal growth. Spiritual teachers and saints have shaped the religious and philosophical landscape throughout history.

Hindustan's spiritualism draws from various sources: the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, the Vedic period, Upanishads and Vedanta, Jainism, Buddhism, the Bhakti Movement, Sufism, and Advaita Vedanta. These traditions have shaped spiritual practices and beliefs in the region.

Notable spiritual figures like Baba Guru Nanak, Kabir, and Bullah Shah convey profound insights through their poetry. Their verses express messages of love, unity, and transcendence, resonating deeply with spiritual seekers.

In the village of Ker Bawa, Mandi Bahauddin, I witnessed a fascinating example of spiritual unity. Adjacent to each other stood a Hindu shrine called Samadhi and a Muslim tomb. Both belonged to Baba Namana, a revered saint whose teachings transcended specific religious boundaries. The Hindu and Muslim communities embraced his teachings, leading to a unique situation when he passed away. The Hindus wished to cremate his body, while the Muslims wanted to bury it. Ultimately, his body vanished, leaving behind separate structures—a Samadhi and a tomb—built by each community in honor of Baba Namana. These edifices, representing different religions, stand side by side, sharing a common wall—a powerful symbol of unity amidst diversity.

In our interconnected world, these stories of shared spiritual reverence and coexistence serve as potent reminders of the potential for unity and harmony among diverse religious communities. Let us embrace the teachings of Baba Namana and work towards celebrating differences while uniting through spirituality.

Hindu (Samadhi) left & Tomb (Right)

Muslim Tomb (Right), Left (Samadhi)

Grave of Baba Namana

Inside view of Samadhi

Samadhi (left) + Tomb (Right)

Author

Samadhi

Tomb