A visit to a Historical Place

A visit to a historical place

               

Basic Points: 

I .Historical Places and Visit ( Para 1 ,2 )

II.  Pakistan and Hazuri Bagh ( Para 3 ,4 )

III. Shahi Qila ( Para 5 ,6 ) 

IV. Shahi Qila and Badshahi Mosque ( Para 7.8 )  

V. Sum Up ( Para 9 )

      

   Historical Places are character of history, concerned with the events that took place during the course of history. These are our cultural heritage and infact a window to our glorious past. These places represent the culture and architecture of good old times when the rulers paid full attention to the promotion of art. The splendorous buildings introduce us to the profound skills of architects of the old times. These places preserve the names of our forefathers who desired to adorn the world using the best of their capabilities.

“History is a cyclic poem written by Time upon the memories of man.”       

 -Percy Bysshe Shelley

       A visit to a historical place is an escape from the present and an excursion into the past. A person learns a great deal about his past heritage. Such places tell us stories better than the books on history. It is always valuable for a student as it enriches his knowledge and broadens his vision. In this age of hurries and worries, a visit to a historical place provides an escape from monotonous routine of life. It provides us sweet memories that are like the sweet smelling flowers bestrewn on the strenuous path of life and change life into a bloomy and balmy garden.

“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” 

–Dr. Seuss

       Our beloved country Pakistan is a place of great significance regarding historical places.  Historical events, distinct works of genius, wondrous achievements, admirable accomplishment and the cultivation of human art constitute the culture of our nation. The Muslim culture is remarkably exceptional for its great historic heritage. The most startling characteristic of its culture is enviable presentation of Mughal architecture. 

“I cannot look at modern buildings without thinking of historical ones.”          

-Kevin McCloud

    Last month, I was privileged to visit two of the most important historical places in Lahore. We had a trip arranged by our college and I decided to go with it.  We reached Lahore early in the morning and after having breakfast we went to the Hazuri Bagh. It is a garden bounded by the Lahore fort on the east side and the Badshahi Mosque on the west side. It is full with greenery and takes you closer to the nature.

“A thing of beauty is a joy forever. Its loveliness increases. It will never pass into nothingness.” 

    -John Keats

  After spending sometime there I and my friends entered the Shahi Qila (also called Lahore Fort) by the main entrance, Alamgiri gate. It has two semi-circular bastions where lotus petal design adorns its base. Then we visited the Moti Masjid that is located near the entrance. Its white marble structure makes it look like a pearl. Near to Moti Masjid is the Maktab Khana. It was used as passage to the Audience Hall from the palace buildings to the north and clerks in the Maktab Khana would also record the entry of guests into the fort. 

“If you want to understand today, you have to search yesterday.”       -Pearl Buck

  Afterwards, we went to the Seesh Mehal which is among the best known monuments of Lahore Fort, and forms the jewel in the fort's crown. The distinctive Shah Jahani style is reflected in the extensive use of white marble, and hierarchical accents of the construction. It is elaborately decorated with a myriad of reflective glass tiles. Located directly beneath the Sheesh Mahal is the Summer Palace, also known as the Pari Mahal, or "Fairy Palace." The Khilwat Khana is also located near Seesh Mehal and it was the residence of the royal ladies of the court.

“

History is philosophy teaching by examples.”    -Thucydides

  Then we went to the Diwan-e-Khas which served as a hall where the Emperor would attend to matters of the state, and where courtiers and state guests were received. We also visited the Diwan-i-Aam which was used a hall for the emperors to hold audience with commoners. Naulakha Pavilion and Shedari Pavilion were also a part of our drop-in. At last, we visited the Lal Burj and the Kala Burj. It was time of Zuhr Prayer now. So we decided to say our prayer in the Badshahi Mosque located across the Hazuri Bagh. 

“Who controls the past controls the future.”   -George Orwell

   Entrance to the mosque is elaborately decorated with framed and carved paneling.  After passing through the massive gate, there is an expansive sandstone paved courtyard. The mosque also has three marble domes, the largest of which is located in the center of the mosque. Moreover, at each of the four corners of the mosque, there are octagonal, three storey minarets made of red sandstone. We said our prayers in the prayer hall. We also visited the Museum representing the Islamic history. At the end of our visit, we recited Fatihah at the tomb of Dr. Allama Mohammad Iqbal that is located near the entrance of the mosque.

“Architecture is a visual art and the buildings speak for themselves.” 

- Julia Morgan

   To sum up, the visit was of great importance to me. It took me to the memory lane of the past that was hidden in the mist of time being mirror to our glorious past. It introduced us to not only the socio-economic status of the Monarchs but also to their taste in art and architecture. It has also unveiled the way of life of the Monarchical societies. Above all, away from the mayhem of the city life, I made a profound road into the life style of the past.