Home ›› 07 May 2023 ›› Opinion
Shalamar Garden is a magnificent Mughal-era garden located in Lahore, Pakistan. Built in the 17th century, this garden is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal garden architecture in the world.
Construction of the gardens began on 12 June 1641, and took 18 months to complete. During the Sikh era, much of the garden’s marble was pillaged and used to decorate the Golden Temple and the Ram Bagh Palace in nearby Amritsar, while the gardens’ costly agate gate was stripped and sold by Lehna Singh Majithia. In 1806 Maharaja Ranjit Singh ordered the Shalimar Gardens to be repaired.
The Gardens were nationalised in 1962 by General Ayub Khan because leading Arain Mian family members had opposed his imposition of martial law in Pakistan. The annual Mela Chiraghan festival used to take place in the gardens until General Ayub Khan forbade it in 1958.
The garden covers an area of 80 acres and is surrounded by high walls. It has three terraces, each of which has a unique layout and style. The first terrace is known as the Great Terrace and is the largest of the three. It is located at the entrance of the garden and is divided into four parts by water channels.
The second terrace is known as the Middle Terrace and is smaller than the Great Terrace. It has a beautiful pavilion in the center, which is surrounded by flower beds and fountains. The third and the last terrace is known as the Lower Terrace and is the smallest of the three. It has a small square pond in the center, surrounded by flower beds.
The garden is famous for its beautiful fountains and waterworks. It has 410 fountains, which are powered by gravity and are still functional today. The water is supplied from the Ravi River, which is located nearby. The fountains are arranged in a way that creates a beautiful symmetrical pattern and is truly a sight to behold.
The garden also has a beautiful pavilion, known as the Sawan Bhadun Pavilion. It is located on the Great Terrace and was built in the typical Mughal style. The pavilion has beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings on its walls and ceilings. It was used by the Mughal emperors as a summer retreat.
Shalamar Garden is not only famous for its beauty but also for its historical significance. It was built during a time when Lahore was the capital of the Mughal Empire, and was used by the Mughal emperors as a place for recreation and relaxation. It has witnessed many important events in history and has been the site of many important meetings and negotiations.
Shalamar Garden is a true masterpiece of Mughal architecture and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. Its beautiful layout, fountains, and pavilions make it one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. Its historical significance and cultural importance make it a symbol of the rich heritage of Pakistan.
Editorial Desk
