In a bid to protect a cherished relic from repeated attacks, a bronze statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh has been reinstalled at Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, Pakistan, a sacred site attracting Sikh pilgrims and tourists worldwide.
The statue, weighing between 250-350 kg, depicts the legendary leader on his Arabian horse, 'Kehar Bahar'.
The installation ceremony was attended by Punjab's Minority Affairs Minister, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, and Sikh pilgrims from India, who are currently in Pakistan to commemorate the 185th anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh's death. The event marks a new chapter in the statue's journey, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
Originally unveiled at Lahore's Shahi Qila in 2019, the statue faced vandalism three times, suffering critical damages. Despite repairs, the risk of further attacks prompted its relocation to Kartarpur Sahib, where it has been welcomed as a symbol of religious tolerance and Sikh heritage.
Besides efforts by the Walled City of Lahore Authority to repair the statue following vandalism by extremists, the risk of further attacks prevented its reinstallation at the fort. Consequently, the statue was moved to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in December 2023, where it remained near the Kartarpur Darshan Point for the last year.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was the first Sikh ruler of Punjab, who conquered Lahore in the early 19th century and ruled Punjab for 40 years. Sungh is remembered by people for his promotion of religious tolerance and the inclusion of several Muslim ministers in his regime, despite allegations of damaging Mughal-era buildings.
His legacy continues to draw pilgrims and history enthusiasts, celebrating his contribution to Punjab's rich cultural heritage.
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