Shrine of Hazrat Mian Sher Muhammad, Sharakpur Sharif

Shrine, Sharakpur Sharif, Punjab, Pakistan
Originally uploaded by Ameer Hamza

Date: 8th June, 2011.

And then, after performing wuzu, we entered the small, peaceful, re-constructed shrine of Hazrat Mian Sher Muhammad. Inside, in a small room there were three graves of which one is here photographed. I had my 50mm on which did not allow me enough space to shoot. The place was good and the heat, which was outside now raging, was in control here. Birds were chirping and few people, among them the caretaker of the Shrine, were present. All were in awe of the Saint. I was happy that I was here. I have always respected Saints because it is due to their tireless efforts that most of us are Muslims. We prayed silently, I took further photographs, and then we moved on.

I was soon reminded by father of Haroon, who was with me for the first time on any trip, that it was the day of Haroon's shadi and we better get to Lahore in time. And so we hurried off....

Princess feeding antelope, Sheikhupura Fort

Princess feeding antelope, Sheikhupura Fort
Originally uploaded by Ameer Hamza

I am not really sure about the history of this fort. It is clear, though, that the fort was initially built by Emperor Akbar and later developed by Emperor Jehangir.

This wall painting withing the fort depicts a princess feeding a pet black antelope. It must be noted that during time of Mughal Rule Sheikhupura had ample flora and fauna. Among the most noted was this specie of antelope. Later, Jehangir constructed a Minar (minaret) commemorating the death of his favourite antelope, who was killed accidentally while on a shoot. Therefore, till Jehangir ruled the empire it was forbidden for everyone to shoot antelopes in the areas around Sheikhupura.

It must also be noted that Akbar used to call Jehangir by the name of Sheikhu. Therefore, the name Sheikhupura.