Pakistan honours Lord Ram? Good news for Pakistani Hindus as historic Iron Temple reopens in Lahore

Lahore: A major piece of good news has come from Pakistan for the devotees of Lord Rama. The restoration work of the historic Loh Mandir (Iron Temple) located in Lahore Fort in Pakistan's Punjab province has been completed. Most importantly, the temple has now been opened to the public. This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama's son, Lava. According to beliefs, the city of Lahore is named after Lava.

Has Pakistan accepted Lord Ram?

The Walled City Lahore Authority (WCLA) announced on Tuesday that they have conserved and restored the Loh Mandir, along with the Sikh-era hammam (bathhouse) and Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Athdara Pavilion. WCLA spokesperson Tania Qureshi said that the main objective of this restoration campaign is to celebrate the rich inter-cultural heritage of Lahore Fort. This heritage is clearly visible in the Sikh and Hindu temples, Mughal mosques, and British-era structures. She further added that modern and comprehensive techniques were used in the conservation work.

What is condition of Hindu monuments in Pakistan?

It is worth noting that in 2025, a Sikh researcher identified approximately 100 monuments that existed during the Sikh era (1799-1849) in Lahore Fort and described their historical significance in detail. About 30 of these monuments no longer exist today. To better understand Lahore Fort and its historical significance during the Sikh Empire, the WCLA has commissioned US-based Sikh researcher Dr. Tarunjit Singh Butalia to write a tour guidebook. The book is titled "Lahore Fort During the Sikh Empire."

Speaking to the media, Dr. Butalia said that Lahore Fort is an emotional monument deeply ingrained in the Sikh psyche, having served as the center of power for the Sikh Empire for almost half a century. It holds a very special place in my heart, as my ancestors held prestigious positions in the Sikh court, according to the 'Umdat ut Tawarikh' (Persian court chronicles).