Sher Shah Suri Mosque at Wazirabad

23rd April 2023

(All images copyright 2023 Mirza Ali Usman Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research and shouldn't be reproduced)

In close proximity to the Sher Shah Suri era Stepwell at Daunkal, Wazirabad lies a mosque that stands as a testament to the same historical period. Less than half a kilometer away, these two remarkable structures give a glimpse into the architectural marvels of the past.

Saifur Rehman Dar, a distinguished archaeologist from Pakistan, has made significant contributions to the field of archaeology, particularly in Pakistan. In his comprehensive survey conducted from 1987 to 1989 along the Grand Trunk Road, Dar meticulously documented the remaining historical relics. It was during this survey that the historical significance of the mosque was discovered, subsequently detailed in Dar's renowned report, "Caravanserais along the Grand Trunk in Pakistan."

The presence of these two historical edifices in such close proximity hinted at the possibility of a Caravanserai, an inn for travelers, having existed in the area in the past. The Grand Trunk Road, with its rich historical heritage, stretches from the town of Gakkhar Cheema in Gujranwala towards Dhaunkal. In the past, there was a Kacchi Serai in Gujranwala, but the passage of time has completely erased its existence.

The present mosque, although modest in size, exudes its historical charm. The covered prayer hall measures a mere 23 ft x 40 ft, adorned with three arched gateways at the front and a single dome atop. In the past, remnants of frescoes adorned the interior ceiling, a sight captured in pictures shared by a friend. Unfortunately, due to current circumstances, visitors are not permitted to explore the historical mosque's interior, as access has been restricted by the caretaker. Recent clashes between different religious sects in the area have further complicated matters concerning the control of the mosque.

Situated in front of a courtyard, another towering arched gateway greets visitors. The mosque is constructed on an elevated platform, beneath which a basement lies. This unique architectural feature suggests that the basement may have served as a Serai, providing shelter for traveller’s at night or acting as living quarters for students who came to study Quranic verses.

The mosque and Serai of Daunkal stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era, their historical significance illuminating the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan. These architectural marvels not only showcase the grandeur of the past but also serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving our historical treasures. By safeguarding these remnants, we honor the collective memory of our ancestors and provide future generations with the opportunity to appreciate and learn from the splendor of the past.

 

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

 23^rd April 2023

(All images copyright 2023 Mirza Ali Usman Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research and shouldn't be reproduced without any written permission)

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 

Cremation Platform 

Cremation Platform 

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

23rd April 2023

(All images copyright 2023 Mirza Ali Usman Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research)

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

𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐡𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐣𝐢𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐭

  06th March 2018

The magnificent Shahi Masjid in Chiniot stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of Wazir Saad Ullah Khan during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. This mosque's design is said to bear a striking resemblance to the Jamia Masjid in Delhi, while its arches share a strong resemblance to those found in the Red Fort. It is noteworthy that both the Jamia Masjid and the Red Fort were not only constructed during Shah Jahan's reign but were also supervised by the esteemed Wazir himself.

Saad Ullah Khan, born into poverty in the village of Pataraki near Chiniot, resided near Lahore's Wazir Khan Masjid before eventually shifting to Delhi. This proximity may explain the similarities in the frescoes and side structures between the Wazir Khan Mosque and the Shahi Masjid. Following his appointment as Wazir by Shah Jahan, owing to his intellect and knowledge, Khan undertook the construction of a mosque in Chiniot, recognizing its strategic significance at the time.

The construction of the mosque spanned nine years, from 1646 to 1655 AD, thanks to Wazir Saad Ullah Khan's remarkable ability to accomplish the task without excessive expenditure. The mosque was erected on a single podium, elevated approximately 15 feet above the ground, and connected to the bazaar through two adjoining lanes. A central ablution pool graced the courtyard, while four minarets adorned the corners of the structure. Legend has it that these minarets were originally built with a unique stone known as Sang-e-Larzaan, earning their moniker as the "trembling stone," as they would sway slightly in the face of strong winds. The main prayer hall, crowned with three domes, featured four rows of majestic pillars adorned with intricate floral patterns and exquisite designs.

Throughout the Mughal era, the mosque stood in all its glory. However, when Punjab fell under Sikh rule, the armies of Ranjit Singh converted the mosque into a stable in 1816, marking a stark transformation of its purpose.

THE THREE HISTORICAL GURDWARAS OF EMINABAD (2020)

Date of Visit:- 23 August 2020

(All pictures are taken by me, writeup taken from the site 'Discover Sikhism)

Eminabad, an ancient town in the Gujranwala district of Pakistan, used to be known as Sayyidpur or Saidpur during the time of Sri Guru Nanak Sahib Ji.

According to the Bhai Bala Janam Sakhi, after leaving Sultanpur and before setting out on his long travels, Guru Nanak, accompanied by Bhai Mardana, first visited Eminabad where Bhai Lalo, a carpenter by profession, became his Sikh.

The Gurbani of Guru Nanak in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji suggests that he was in Eminabad when the town was sacked by Babar in 1521.

Janam Sakhis also mention that during the attack by the Mughal force the Guru was held in prison and given a stone mill to ply.

Eminabad came under Sikh rule when Sardar Charhat Singh Sukkarchakkia occupied it during the 1760s.

Charat Singh was the grandfather of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

The town has important historic Gurdwaras which were administered by the Shiromam Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee from 28 February 1922 until 1947.

There are 3 Historic Sikh Gurdwaras at Eminabad.

Gurdwara Khuhi Bhai Lalo

 32° 2'30.10"N 74°15'41.56"E

Gurdwara Khuhi Bhai Lalo marks the house and the well (Khuhi, in Punjabi) belonging to Bhai Lalo where Guru Nanak first met him. Bhai Lalo was born in 1452 in the village of Saidpur, presently known as Eminabad, in Pakistan. Bhai Lalo's father's name was Bhai Jagat Ram of the Ghataura surname belonging to the carpenter clan.

Guru Nanak stayed with Bhai Lalo on several occasions. Bhai Lalo's house became a dharmsala, a meeting place for the local followers of Guru Nanak. Later the house was developed into Gurdwara which was named after the khuhi (narrow well) which existed even when the old house had crumbled.

History

Bhai Lalo is known in Sikh history for a particular story when Guru Nanak was visiting. When Malik Bhago, an important government official of the city, provided food for all religious holy men he invited Guru Nanak Sahib too.

Guru Nanak declined the invitation of Malik Bhago. On being summoned through official command a second time, Guru Nanak Sahib took Bhai Lalo with him and went to Malik Bhago's house. With great anger Malik Bhago said to Guru Nanak, 'You are dishonoring Kshatriyas by eating dry chapatis in the house of a carpenter. My feast offers you delicious food. Why do you refuse to eat it?'

Guru Nanak Sahib took Malik Bhago's buttered bread in his left hand and Bhai Lalo's plain bread in his right hand. When Guru Nanak squeezed his left hand, with the Malik Bhago's buttered bread, everyone saw blood trickling from it. When Guru Nanak squeezed his right hand, the people saw drops of milk dripping from it. Malik Bhago became silent.

Guru Nanak explained that Malik's income was earned by sucking the blood of the poor people whereas the income of this carpenter had the milk earned from his hard labor. "This was the reason behind my rejection of your rich food and that was why I preferred the simple bread earned through hard labor," said the Guru.

Gurdwara Sri Rori Sahib Eminabad

 32° 2'51.57"N 74°14'57.00"E

Gurdwara Sri Rori Sahib Eminabad marks the site where Guru Nanak stayed with Bhai Lalo after the destruction of the Saidpur by Babur. Here Guru Nanak had to sit and lie down on a hard bed of pebbles (small stones) (Rori in Punjabi) as alluded to in Bhai Gurdas Varan 1.

When the armies of Babar entered Punjab in 1521, Guru Nanak was present in Saidpur. At the time of the capture of Saidpur, many locals were arrested, including Guru Nanak. At the time of the arrest, Guru Nanak was sitting here at Gurdwara Sri Rori Sahib Eminabad on the pebbles and was praying to God. The Gurdwara stands at the place of the pebbles.

Gurdwara

An imposing Gurdwara has been built over the place. A large pond and other buildings make it more graceful. A large estate worth Rs.5000 per annum and 9 squares of agricultural land were endowed to the Gurdwara from the era of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Vaisakhi and Kattak Puranmashi festivals used to be held in the past but only the Vaisakhi festival is held now where people from Gujranwala and its adjoining areas participate with fanfare.

This was the premier gurdwara of the town. Its central building is a three-story imposing structure of cut brickwork, which is topped with three chhatri-like structures covered with a large central gumbaz (dome) with smaller chhatris (dome-shaped pavilions) on either side. A rectangular hall adjoins it on the left side of the entry. A large Sarovar, surrounded by low walls on two of its sides is set askew to the right of the central entry tower. At the rear of the complex, there is a room topped with a particularly exquisite ribbed white lotus dome with a circumambulatory verandah. This room covers the pebbled area on which Guru Nanak was arrested.

Before Partition, Eminabad was known for its week-long Vaisakhi fair which included largely attended Sangat gatherings of the Sikhs in Gurdwara Sri Rori Sahib as well as the usual fun and a cattle fair. The multi-story building was set on fire by a mob of Muslim zealots soon after the partition of Punjab on 15th August 1947. The building of the Gurdwara was falling apart but the Government of Pakistan stemmed the rot by making repairs and constructing its boundary wall.

Gurdwara Sri Chakki Sahib Eminabad

 32° 2'32.03"N 74°15'35.99"E

Gurdwara Sri Chakki Sahib, at Eminabad, is located where a large chakki (millstone) was kept. The chakki was used by Sri Guru Nanak Sahib Ji during his detention. In the Janamsakhis, it is mentioned that Guru Nanak was taken as a prisoner along with thousands of his fellow countrymen by Emperor Babur's men.

Guru Nanak was, along with many of his fellow prisoners, forced to grind corn with hand-driven chakki's (millstones). His captors were surprised to see that the millstone used by Guru Nanak was turning, by itself, while Guru Nanak was simply pouring grist into the opening in the stone as he sang kirtan in remembrance of God.

Guru Nanak's singing to 'One God' (the Mughals as Muslims also believed in One God) and, even more, the stone's turning by itself amazed the Mughal soldiers who brought this to the immediate attention of Babur.

When the miracle was reported to Babur, he himself came to meet Guru Nanak. After talking to Guru Nanak, Babur set Guru Nanak and Bhai Mardana free. Babur also freed thousands of other prisoners too, many of whom became the Guru's followers.

The millstone was preserved as an object of veneration and much later, a Gurdwara was established where the millstone was kept, named Gurdwara Sri Chakki Sahib Eminabad. Its present building is a simple flat-roofed room with some ancillaries and a brick-paved compound, inside the town.