Several historic monuments at the Lahore Fort have been officially inaugurated after extensive conservation, marking a major milestone in preserving the city’s layered and pluralistic heritage.
The restored monuments include the Sikh-era Hammam, Athdara Pavilion, and Loh Temple, along with conservation work at other historic structures within the Fort complex. The project was funded by the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP).
The conservation was carried out by the Aga Khan Cultural Service – Pakistan (AKCS-P) in partnership with the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA).
Part of broader cross-cultural preservation
The unveiling is part of the initiative titled 'Preservation and Promotion of Cross-Cultural Edifices of Lahore Fort'. The programme aims to safeguard monuments that reflect the Fort’s Mughal, Sikh, Hindu and British influences.
Previously restored sites under the same initiative include the Sikh-era Temple and the Imperial Zenana Mosque, bringing the total number of conserved monuments within the Fort to seven.
Historical significance of restored monuments
The Loh Temple complex, located near the Alamgiri Gate, consists of interconnected chambers featuring ritual elements associated with Hindu practices, alongside architectural features from the Sikh era.
The Athdara Pavilion, situated in the northwest precinct of the Shah Jahan Forecourt Quadrangle, was built during the Sikh period and historically functioned as a public court where Maharaja Ranjit Singh is believed to have held court.
The Sikh Hammam, located at the northeast corner of the Sheesh Mahal Quadrangle, was originally constructed during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan and later adapted into a hammam during the Sikh era, featuring delicate oil paintings.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the Shah Burj Forecourt and presided over by Punjab’s Provincial Minister for Minorities Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora as the chief guest.
Sandeep Paul, the public affairs officer of the US Consulate Lahore, attended as guest of honour. The event brought together representatives from academia, government, and the arts community.
Opening remarks were delivered by Tausif Khawaja, the CEO of AKCS-P, followed by speeches from Sandeep Paul and Najamus Saqib, the WCLA director general.
Paul highlighted heritage conservation as a key pillar of the US–Pakistan partnership, stating that preserving historic sites is an investment in the future that creates tourism and economic opportunities.
Conservation process, technical challenges
A detailed presentation on the conservation process was delivered by Wajahat Ali, the director of conservation and design at AKCS-P. He outlined the initial condition of the sites, challenges encountered, and the techniques used to preserve original materials and architectural details.
Najamus Saqib described the Lahore Fort as a rare representation of multiple historical periods. He said the authority and its partners are committed to preserving the distinct footprints of every era so future generations can understand their individual significance.
Minister stresses inclusivity
Sardar Ramesh Singh said the project symbolises Punjab’s long-standing inclusivity and pluralistic heritage. He noted that the restored monuments reflect Lahore’s history as a shared civilisation of diverse faiths and cultures.
The programme included ribbon-cutting ceremonies at the Loh Temple, Sikh Hammam, and Athdara Pavilion, followed by guided site visits. The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to dignitaries by Luis Monréal, the general manager of the AKTC.
