Remarkable example of craftsmanship

Roots of Sarai Mughal Tomb go back to the Mughal Empire

PATTOKI:

Legend has it that the Sarai Mughal Tomb was built 300 years ago. It is a masterpiece of the Mughal rule. The tomb has two graves. There are four lamps, and Ayatul Kursi is written inside the tomb.

The mosaic art enhances the tomb's attractiveness. The tomb is a remarkable example of the craftsmanship of its time. The tomb's history has its roots in the era of the Mughal Empire. However, the tomb has not been preserved in the manner that its history and importance demand, and its structure is crumbling rapidly.

The Sarai Mughal is a historical village and was built as a connecting point between the fort and the tomb. The locals in the region surmise that since the Mughal Empire had to construct forts outside of Lahore to fend off foreign invaders, this tomb probably belonged to a commander appointed by the Mughal government. Additionally, this mausoleum is near the Sutlej and Ravi Rivers with the name Nelli.

History demonstrates that the natives disliked any culture other than their own. Therefore, it's possible that the person interred in this tomb had a dispute with them on a matter related to the one that led to his death because there was no requirement to keep any written records at that time. There are graves, shrines and tombs of illustrious martyrs in the subcontinent whose identities are unknown in the history books. These are the facts that emerged while still putting regional tradition first.

Additionally, the property around the mausoleum is also controlled by the land mafia, which has repeatedly attempted to damage the monument, but the people and police thwarted their attempt.

The ministers of the Mughal Empire used to stay at this place. This tomb remains the focus of attention of people from the surrounding areas of Sarai Mughal during the Mughal era.

The locals have urged the government to take custody of this tomb and to conserve this piece of cultural heritage by periodically repairing it.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 5^th, 2022.