LAHORE, Jan 25 (ABC): Three historic monuments at the Lahore Fort reopened to the public on Sunday after the completion of US-funded conservation work.
The restored monuments include the Sikh-era Hammam, the Athdara Pavilion, and the Loh Temple. The work was funded through the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. Meanwhile, the Aga Khan Cultural Service – Pakistan (AKCS-P) carried out the project in partnership with the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA).
Heritage project preserves multiple eras
The unveiling took place under a broader project titled Preservation and Promotion of Cross-Cultural Edifices of Lahore Fort. The initiative aims to protect the Fort’s diverse cultural history.
Earlier, the same programme restored the Sikh-era Temple and the Imperial Zenana Mosque. As a result, conservation work now covers seven important monuments inside the Fort. These sites reflect Mughal, Sikh, Hindu, and British influences.
Historical value of restored sites
The Loh Temple complex stands near the Alamgiri Gate. It contains connected chambers and ritual features linked to Hindu traditions. At the same time, the structure also shows elements from the Sikh period.
Meanwhile, the Athdara Pavilion lies in the northwest section of the Shah Jahan Forecourt Quadrangle. Builders constructed it during the Sikh era. Historically, it served as a public court where Maharaja Ranjit Singh held audiences.
The Sikh Hammam is located near the Sheesh Mahal Quadrangle. Mughal builders first constructed it during Emperor Shah Jahan’s reign. Later, Sikh rulers converted it into a hammam. Even today, fine oil paintings remain visible on its walls.
Ceremony highlights partnership
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Shah Burj Forecourt. Punjab’s Provincial Minister for Minorities Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, attended as the chief guest. Meanwhile, Sandeep Paul, Public Affairs Officer at the US Consulate in Lahore, joined as the guest of honour.
Academics, government officials, and members of the arts community also attended the event. First, Tausif Khawaja, Chief Executive Officer of AKCS-P, delivered opening remarks. Later, Sandeep Paul and WCLA Director General Najamus Saqib addressed the gathering.
US-Pakistan cooperation stressed
Speaking at the ceremony, Sandeep Paul highlighted cultural preservation as an important area of cooperation between the United States and Pakistan.
He said preserving heritage supports future growth. Moreover, he noted that restored monuments attract visitors and create economic opportunities. As a result, they strengthen people-to-people ties.
Cultural harmony highlighted
Tausif Khawaja described the restored monuments as symbols of cultural harmony. He said the Loh Temple holds both historical and religious value. Many visitors from across the border also come to see it.
He added that the Athdara Pavilion holds deep importance for the Sikh community. Although the structure appears simple, it played a key role during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s rule. Behind it, the Sikh Hammam displays delicate artwork from the same period.
Conservation process explained
Wajahat Ali, Director of Conservation and Design at AKCS-P, explained the restoration process through a detailed presentation. He discussed the original condition of the sites. He also outlined the challenges and techniques used during conservation.
Najamus Saqib said the Lahore Fort represents many historical periods. Therefore, preserving each layer helps future generations understand its full history.
Message of inclusivity
Addressing the audience, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora said the project reflects Punjab’s inclusive heritage. He added that the restored sites highlight Lahore’s long tradition of religious and cultural coexistence.
The programme concluded with ribbon-cutting ceremonies at all three monuments. Afterwards, guests visited the restored sites. Finally, Luis Monréal, General Manager of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, presented souvenirs to the dignitaries.