Kala Dhari Temple🛕 Bahawalpur: A Forgotten Treasure of History & Culture🏛

A Glimpse into History

Kala Dhari Temple, a 300-year-old marvel of architecture and spirituality, stands in the heart of Phattay Wali Gali, Shahi Bazaar, Bahawalpur. Originally named Shiri Nani Dev Kaala Dhari Jee Maharaaj Mandir, the temple was constructed by the Maratha Empire, reflecting their architectural brilliance and devotion. The temple’s structure is adorned with intricate carvings of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, beautifully crafted in both stone and wood.

Following the Partition of 1947, many Hindu families migrated from Bahawalpur, leaving behind this sacred structure. Today, the temple remains a home to several immigrant families, while a portion of it is utilized as a school by the Bahawalpur Municipal Corporation.

The Myth of the Secret Passage

The elderly residents of Phattay Wali Gali, one of the oldest streets in Bahawalpur, whisper tales of a mysterious underground passage beneath the temple, allegedly leading all the way to Delhi. Though no concrete evidence has ever surfaced, this legend continues to fascinate locals and visitors alike, adding to the temple’s enigmatic charm.

Architectural Grandeur

Despite its fading glory, Kala Dhari Temple remains a testament to artistic excellence. Some of its notable architectural features include:

• Intricate Carvings – The temple’s grand entrance and interior are adorned with breathtaking carvings of Hindu deities, displaying the craftsmanship of an era gone by.
• Artistic Elements – The pillars and walls showcase delicate floral motifs and mythological symbols, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Current Condition: A Struggle Against Time

Since the exodus of the Hindu community, the temple has suffered immense neglect. Over the decades, weather conditions, lack of maintenance, and unauthorized usage have further deteriorated the structure.

• Structural Decay – Parts of the temple have collapsed due to years of neglect. In 2015, a room’s floor caved in, revealing an underground tunnel, though its historical significance remains uncertain.
• Repurposed Premises – The Bahawalpur Municipal Corporation now operates a primary school within the temple, while other portions are rented out to tenants by the Evacuee Trust Property Board.
• Lack of Preservation – Despite being a site of historical and religious importance, the temple has received minimal restoration efforts. Local residents have attempted minor repairs, but a full-fledged conservation plan remains absent.

A Call for Restoration

Today, Kala Dhari Temple stands weathered and battered by time, its beauty hidden beneath layers of neglect. Torrential rains and harsh climate conditions continue to take a toll on the already crumbling structure. Without immediate intervention, this magnificent piece of history risks fading into oblivion.

It is imperative for government authorities, heritage conservationists, and local communities to recognize its importance and work towards restoring the temple to its former glory. Preserving Kala Dhari Temple is not just about safeguarding a religious site; it is about protecting a historical landmark that tells the story of Bahawalpur’s rich and diverse past.

Conclusion

Kala Dhari Temple is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of culture, history, and architectural brilliance. If immediate restoration efforts are not undertaken, we risk losing a priceless heritage site forever. The question remains: Will we allow history to fade, or will we take steps to protect this legacy for future generations?

For more updates and detailed coverage of this case and other issues affecting the Hindu and Sindhi communities in Sindh, Pakistan, stay tuned to Sindh Renaissance.