The Punjab village that history almost forgot

The antiquity of Bhakna village, located just seven kilometres from the international border, is believed to be ancient, with evidence of human settlements emerging from a “theh” (a big mound).

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The ancient Shivala Bhakna village, where Nanakshahi bricks were used in construction and which is mentioned in Punjabi folk songs, serves as further proof of its historic significance.

Office-bearers of the Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna Memorial Committee said that the village was named after one of seven brothers born in the area. The names of two other brothers, Khasa and Cheecha, are commemorated by nearby villages bearing those names.

This border village once had a substantial Hindu population, which saw large-scale migration during the period of militancy. Before being severely affected by militancy, Bhakna had a bustling bazaar that attracted people from surrounding villages.

Bhakna stands as a true example of “unity in diversity.” During the communal frenzy and massacres that led to the deaths of millions of Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs at the time of Partition, Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna formed Aman Sabhas (peace committees) to help many Muslims safely migrate to the newly created Pakistan.

Villagers claim that Bhakna was once devastated long ago and the “theh” on the outskirts serves as a testament to this theory. However, the Archaeological Department has yet to carry out any excavation to confirm the existence of a prehistoric civilisation there. It is believed that after the large-scale destruction, the village was relocated to the adjoining plains.

The beautiful frescos in the ancient temple of this border village were damaged during whitewashing and tiles placed on its exterior have eclipsed its original charm. A Sarovar made of Nanakshahi bricks lies dried up and desperately needs restoration. The temple complex, also constructed with Nanakshahi bricks, houses temples dedicated to Shiva, Krishna and Hanuman. Unfortunately, the temple has been whitewashed, disregarding its heritage importance. The name of this historical temple also appears in Punjabi folk songs.

Next to the temple complex is a religious site believed to have been built in memory of Kala Mehar, an ancestor of the Sandhu community.

Vinod Kumar Gujral, who served as Sarpanch of the village from 2003 to 2008, said the temple was in a dilapidated condition but has since been repaired. Melas are organised at the temple during Janmashtami and Shivratri.

Once a centre of higher learning, the village was called Kashi in the olden days. Famous pandits from across the subcontinent used to visit Bhakna for discourses.