Book narrates tales of lost Sikh heritage in Pak

The historical documentation of the heritage of undivided Punjab took centre stage as a book launch ceremony and discussion on “Vissreyaa virsa: Pakistan vich Sikh virasat”, large-format book, was held last week at the Punjab Press Club here.

The book is the Punjabi edition of Singapore-based author Amardeep Singh’s “Lost Heritage: The Sikh Legacy in Pakistan”.

Singh said, through this book, he invited readers to explore an unseen and significant heritage.

The book is a deep and emotional exploration of the historical places, artefacts and cultural symbols of Sikhism spread across Pakistan, hidden behind the painful history of Partition.

The book narrates the story of holy shrines, magnificent forts and forgotten tombs, which were once the beating heart of a flourishing Sikh community.

Through extensive research and heartfelt narration, the author has revived the significance of these places, and the countless stories associated with them.

Singh said, “I believe it is very important to tell the story of Sikh heritage in Pakistan. This is not only important for the Sikh community, but also essential for understanding the shared history and culture of the region. This book is a reminder that, despite historical divisions, our roots are common.”

The book not only showcased a detailed description and historical significance of major Sikh sites in Pakistan, but also presented old photographs and rare archival material that had never been seen before, he added.

The book is a must-read for historians, scholars, followers of the Sikh faith and all who are interested in knowing more about the shared cultural history of India and Pakistan.

Through the book, Singh takes readers on a sensitive and insightful journey into the neglected and rich history of Sikh heritage spread across the land of Pakistan.

“The book is not just a compilation of historical facts, but also a heartfelt effort to revive a significant cultural and religious heritage that survived after the tragedy of Partition. From gurdwaras to magnificent buildings of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time and the forgotten memorials of common people who shaped the history of the region, it explores the countless places in Pakistan that are deeply connected to Sikh history and culture,” Singh said.

The author, using colourful pictures, depicts the current condition of these places, and brings forth important stories of their past.

Dr Parminder Singh Shonkey, director of Rethink Books, the publisher of the book, told reporters that the book, an invaluable documentation of undivided Punjab, not only searched for historical places in Pakistan, but also told the reader about their current condition, and made us aware of our duties towards that heritage.

“Now that this book has been published in the Punjabi, I believe that readers, the Punjab Government, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, and the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee — including the leading domestic and foreign organisations of the Sikh Panth — will be active in fulfilling their historical duties with reference to this book,” he said.