Preserving the Cultural Heritage of Lahore: Restoration of Naag Mandir Underway

Author: Shakila Jalil

In a significant effort to protect and showcase the rich cultural legacy of Lahore, the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA), in collaboration with the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan (AKCSP) and the US Embassy, has embarked on an ambitious project to preserve the historic Naag Mandir, a Sikh-era temple situated within the Lahore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A Testament to Interfaith Harmony

Since September 2022, the AKCSP and WCLA have been working tirelessly on the US Embassy-funded project “Cross-cultural Edifices of Lahore Fort,” aiming to highlight the diversity of religious monuments within the site and preserve the cultural heritage of the city. Naag Mandir, a sacred site showcasing the interfaith harmony of the past, is undergoing meticulous restoration to preserve its architectural and historical significance.

Restoration Efforts

The preservation project focuses on protecting the temple’s structural integrity, repairing damaged elements, restoring its context, and addressing water drainage issues. The team is also working to preserve the surface decoration to restore its original splendor and open up the site for visitors. The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of August 2024.

A Small but Important Monument

WCLA Director General Kamran Lashari emphasized the significance of the temple, stating, “This is a small but important monument inside the Lahore Fort. We are thankful to the AKCSP and the US Embassy for conserving this building and reviving its lost look and beauty.” He added, “The AKCSP and the WCLA have taken up the conservation of this site, as we aim to conserve and restore every part of Lahore Fort.”

This restoration project is a testament to the commitment of preserving Pakistan’s cultural heritage and promoting interfaith harmony.