Moolchand Temple Lahore

The Forgotten Son of Lahore Lala Moolchand 

11th July 2022

On Shaheed Gunj Road in Lahore, just before the Shaheed Gunj Gurdwara, stands a tall spire that belongs to a pre-partition temple known as Moolchand Temple. The temple can also be accessed from the Nolkha Bazaar side, offering multiple routes to reach the temple building.

Adjacent to the temple, there is a Sarai—a lodging facility—comprised of several rooms. However, these rooms are currently occupied by migrant families. Prior to the partition of 1947, Moolchand's temple was renowned for providing food and shelter to travelers from all communities.

Constructed in the early 19th century, the temple was built by Lala Moolchand and his son Lala Khairati Ram. Lala Moolchand, a prominent philanthropist of his time, also established the Moolchand Trust in Lahore in 1928. The trust began with an initial endowment of Rs. 4 million and has carried forward a legacy of philanthropic endeavors spanning over 80 years. Their commitment to spirituality and charitable work has endured through generations. After Lala Moolchand, the responsibility of upholding the values and aspirations of the trust fell upon Sardari Lal Talwar, who was only 16 years old at the time. Sardari Lal Talwar dedicated the next 70 years of his life to fulfilling the trust's mission. In the 1990s, Suresh Talwar, the son of Sardari Lal, played a pivotal role in restructuring Moolchand, enabling it to compete in the world of corporate healthcare.

Apart from the temple building, there are two other significant structures associated with Moolchand in Lahore. One is the Moolchand Sarai located in Anarkali Bazaar, and the other is the FB Naraindas Moolchand Hospital, which specializes in breastfeeding and lactation clinics.

Unfortunately, the temple building itself is in an extremely dilapidated state. However, remnants of its past grandeur can still be observed, such as the wooden door entrance, arch supports, and intriguing floor patterns. The temple's spire was destroyed as a reaction to the Babri Masjid incident in 1992. Subsequently, efforts were made to repair and reconstruct the spire, ensuring that the temple maintained its symbolic presence.

The Moolchand Temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and historical significance of Lahore. Despite its current state of disrepair, it serves as a reminder of the philanthropic endeavours of the Moolchand family and their contributions to the community. The temple's survival amidst changing times is a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the people who continue to cherish its existence. Efforts to preserve and restore this historic site would not only honor its past but also provide a valuable link to Lahore's diverse cultural fabric.