Haveli Bagh-e-Sardaran Complex
The complex has three non-functional Hindu temples and two Sikh gurdwaras. It not only served as a religious site, but also as a welfare center for the local communities. Most of the complex now acts as an office and residence for the Special Branch of the Police.
The complex is frequented annually by Sikh visitors on the occasion of Vaisakhi.
History
The foundation is said to have been laid by Sardar Band Singh, who was a descendant of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, laid the foundation of Bagh-e-Sardaran. He, along with Sardar Milkha Singh Thehpuria, helped with the construction arrangements. The complex is also said to have built to foster inter-faith harmony among the surrounding Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim communities. The locals claim that the complex also housed a swimming pool and a garden, and covered an area of 6 acres (24,000 m).
After the Partition of India, most of the Hindus and Sikhs of the area migrated to India. The complex was then converted into a recreational spot by the remaining Muslims. Allotments and encroachments resulted in the reduction of the remaining complex area to only a few marlas.
References
- ^ Asghar, Imran (2021-09-20). "Raghunath temple complex in a shambles". The Express Tribune. Retrieved 2024-01-22.
- ^ "Ancient Chan Chiragh, Jamia Mosque and Hindu Temples of Rawalpindi -3". March 30, 2018.
- ^ Shamil, Taimur (October 16, 2015). "The temples of Rawalpindi: Old wisdom in a new world". DAWN.COM.
- ^ Sherazi, Qaiser (2023-01-23). "A tale of overlooked places of worship". The Express Tribune. Retrieved 2024-01-22.
- ^ "Restoration of seven temples on backburner". The Express Tribune. October 18, 2021.