Bassi Pathana is a small town located
between Sirhind and Morinda. It is a railway station on the Sirhind-Nangal
railway line and is about 8 km from Sirhind. Its population as per 1981 Census
was 16,672.
It is believed that this town was
founded in 1540 by an Afghan Malik Khan, who settled here during the reign of
Sher Shah Suri. After the sack of Sirhind by the Sikhs in 1763, it was occupied
by Sardar Diwan singyh of the Dallewal Misl. Later on, it became the
headquarters of the Amargarh Ni of Patiala State, and on the formation of PEPSU
of the Fatehgarh Sahib District. In 1953, Fatehgarh Sahib District was
amalgamated with Patiala District and Bassi Pathana became the headquartes of
the Fatehgarh Sahib Subdivision. But with the construction of subsdivisional
complex at Fatehgarh Sahib, the offices have shifted here from Bassi Pathana. IT
is now only a block headquarters.
The old fort of the town can still be
seen, though in dilapidated condition. Some parts of the fort are still in good
condition, wherein a Government Primary School and Sub Jail are situated.
Among the religious places of the
town, mention may be made of Sant Namdev Temnple. It was at this place that
Sant Namdev who born on 26 October 1270 in Maharashtra stayed for a
considerable period and preached Bhakti Marg (way to worship God) to the people
of the area. Thence, he moved to other towns of the Punjab for spreading his
religious messeage. As this saint preceded the Sikh Gurus, his sermons in 61
Shalokas' have been included in Guru Granth Sahib. This place became known as
'Swami Nam Dev Ji Ka Dera' Later on, a magnificent temple was constructed on
this place in 1925.
A big fair is held here for three
days on Basant Panchmi when a large number of persons from various parts of Punjab and adjoining States visit the
place. Board and lodging facilities are provided to the people. The affiars of
this temple are managed by All India Sant Nam Dev Mandir Sabha (Regd.) with
head office at Bassi Pathana.
There is smadh iof Baba Budh Das
which is located in the heart of the town. It is held in great esteem by the
pople of the town. It is believed that with the blessings of the Baba, the
desires of the people are fulfilled.
Bassi Pathana is a big grain market.
Industry is also developing here. There are many units for the manufacture of
scientific instruments and agricultrual implements. A Class II Municipal
Committee is functioning in the town. There is also a degree college, an
Industrial Training Institute and a 25-bedded Civil Hospital.
Nabha
Headquarters of the
subdivision/tahsil of the same name, Nabha is an important historical town in
the Patiala District. It is situated about 26 km west of Patiala City, the
district headquartes and is a railway station on the Bathinda-Rajpura line. It
is well connected with Patiala, Gobindgarah, Malerkotla, Bhawanigarh and Sangrur.
It has the honour of being the capital of the erstwhile princely State of Nabha till its merger with the PEPSU in
1948.
The town derives its name from nabh
ka phul, because at the time of its foundation, it was a village surrounded by
pounds with lotus. The town was founded in 1755 by Raja Hamir Singh, one of the
descendants of Phul, the common ancestor of the Phulkian rulers of Nahba,
Patiala and Jind States. He was also the first Raja of Nabha to coin money in
his own name. The old town developed round a pukka fort with a big mud wall
surrounding it. The fort now houses some offices of the Punjab Government and a
library.
Raja Hira Singh took much interest in
the development of the town. He spent large sums of money in the construction
of roads and otherwise beautifying the town. Many buildings were constructed.
Both Raja Hira Singh and Ripudaman Singh did much to establish educational
institutions at Nahba. They were great supporters of literary activities. That
is why Nabha has gained much fame for literary personalities. Bhai Kahan Singh
of Nabha is well-known for his contribution to the Punjabi language as a writer
of Mahan Kosh, an unrivalled Punjabi dictionary and several other books in
Punjabi. Nabha has now come on the map of journalism also. About 20 monthly and
weekly newpapers are published from here. There is also a Government Sanskrit
Mahavidyala which was started as a school in 1903 by Maharaja Hira Singh of
Nabha State.
There is also a Gram Sewak's Training
Centre (renamed as Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru State Institute of Rural
Development) at Nabha which imparts training to the rural development staff.
Nabha is an important grain market particularly for rice and groundnut. There
is also a vegetable and fruit market in the town. The Hindustan Milk Food
Manufacturers Limited is an important industry of the town where Gopika ghee.
Hotlicks and other food products are manufactured. The Punjab School Nabha
imparts quality education to the children of the ex-servicement, serving
personnel of the defence forces and civilians. It is housed in a palatial
building, which speaks highly of the architectural grandeur of the princely
times.
Nabha is also famous for household
industries of fancy and colourful waist cords (nalas), hair-ytyping
cords(parandhas) and juties (type of casual footwears).
The town has a Class II Municipal
Committee and its population according to 1981 Census was 45.921.
Some of the important religious
places in the town are briefly described as under :
Gurudwara
Akalgarh.-- It is associated with the well-known Jaiton Morcha (campaign),
which was launched during struggle for freedom in 1923. At that time, Jaiton
was in Nabha State and almost all the morchas (campaigns) were started from the
site where Gurudwara Akalgarh stands. It may be recalled that after the
deposition of Maharaja Ripudaman Singh in 1912, Nabha administration was placed
under the British administration. All types of political agitations were
prohibited. But even then agitation continued and many people were arrested.
Our late Prime Minister Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru also visited Nabha to support
the agitation of the Akalis and was imprisoned in the Nabha Jail. The Akalis
demanded the restoration of Maharaja Ripudaman Singh. After the independence,
Gurudwara Akalgarh was got built by Maharaja Partap Singh to commemorate the
martyrdom of heroes of Jaiton Morcha.
Gurudwara Dera Baba Ajaipal
.- This gurudwara has been built to commemorate the memory of baba Ajai Pal
Singh who was a drum-beater of Guru Gobind Singh. Baba Ajai Pal Singh stayed
here for full 39 years and preached Sikhism among the people of this area.
Ranjit Nagara (drum) of GuruGobind
Singh has also been preserve in this gurudwara. It is also known as
Gurudwara Ghorianwala, as it is believed that the wishes of people are granted
by making offers of horses . A large number of people visit this place
during gurpurbs and sangrands.
Panchmukhi
Temple.- This temple is situated in the heart of the town in the Loharan
Wali Gali. It is a unique example of the best utilisation of a very small piece
of land. Before the construction of this temple, people residing in the area
used to throw rubbish at this place. It has been converted into a
multi-storeyed temple for worship. There are grand images of deities of
Hanuman, Durga Mata, Radha Krishen , Ram, sita, and Shiva installed on the
first, second, third, fourth , and fifth storey of the temple, respectively.
During the evenings , there is a great rush of devotees. However, on Tuesday, a
large number of people visit the temple to make their offerings to the deities.
The affairs of the temple are managed by a local committee . The members of the
committee take active part in social service. During floods, they provide all
types of help for the relief of flood-victims. Arrangements are also made for
the marriages of poor girls by the committee.
Shiv
Mandir.- This temple is situated
outside ‘Duladi Gate’ of the town, besides a tank. Actually, this complex has
two temples, Shiv Mandir and Radha Krishen Mandir. The religious festivals of
shivratri, Janam Ashtami and Ram Naumi are celebrated here with great
enthusiasm. A large number of people visit this place on these occasions . The
affairs of the temple are looked after by
Shiv Mandir sudhar Committee which was constituted on 26 October 1978.
It has been doing active service for the development of this religious place.
It is due to the persistent efforts of the devoted members of this committee
that this neglected place has become an important place of religious attraction
for the people of the town.
Gurudwara
Gurusar Sahib Padshahi Nauvin, Dhangera.- Situated in village Dhangera, at
a distance of 10 km from Nabha towards Bhadson, Gurudwara Gurusar Sahib
Padshahi Nauvin has been built in the memory of Guru Teg Bahadur . On his way
to Delhi for supreme sacrifice, Guru Teg Bahadur, stayed at this place for
sometime and blessed the people of this area. Abig fair is held here during the
month of Magh (February) every year. Sixty bighas of land is also attached to
the gurudwara for running its affairs.
Gurudwara
Padshsi Chhevin, Saunti.—This Gurudwara is situated at a distance of 3 km
from Amloh. It commemoraters the memory of Gurg Har Gobind who stayed here for
sometime during his Malwa tour . Some weapons of the Guru have also been
preserved in this gurudwara . A big fair is held here on the occasion of
Dussehra every year . A large number of people of the surrounding areas visit
this place to have the blessings of the Guru .
Amloh
This
town situated on Nabha-Gobindgarh road and is at a distance of 29 km from
Nabha. It was originally founded by Faiz Baksh, the Governor of sirhind. After
the fall of Sirhind in 1763, Amloh was annexed by Raja Hamir Singh, the ruler
of Nabha State. It was properly developed by erstwhile rulers of Nabha State.
The fort in the town was got constructed by Raja Hira Singh of Nabha . It was
given the status of Nizamat Headquarters.
At
present, Amloh is a Class III municipality . It also enjoys the status of
headquarters of Amloh Sub Tahsil of Nabha Tahsil. The old building of the fort
is occupied by the officers of Naib Tahsildar and other Government officers.
The major portion of the fort is in dilapidated condition.
Amloh
is also making steady progress in the field of industry. Iron safes and stools
are manufactured here. Iron safes and stools are manufactured here. The
population of the town, as per 1981 Census was 7,098.
Bhadson
Bhadson
is situated at a distance of 18 km from Nabha on Nabha-Amloh road. According to
myths prevalent among the people of this area , the town was founded by Raja
Bhadra Sain. He had a daughter named Kokila – who was very fond of chess. She
declared of marry a person who would defeat her in the game of Chess. Raja Rasalu
gave her defeat in the game of Chess and married her. In due course, Kokila got
entangled in love with Raja Hodi. Rasalu came to know about the love affair
between Kokila and Raja Hodi through his pet birds (Tota and Maina)
Consequently , Raja Rasalu imposed strict restrictions on Kokila to remain
within the palace . Thereafter, Raja
Hodi got a tunnel constructed to meet her beloved . One day when Raja Hodi came
to meet Kokila, Raja Rasalu became aware of it and he murdered both of them.
Bhadson was conquered by Raja Hamir Singh of Nabha
State in 1759. His successor,Raja jaswant Singh built the fort of Bhadson on the mound of ruins of the old fort. The
fort is now occupied by the police Station, Bhadson. There is also a tomb of
Baba Pir patshah in the fort. It is believed that wishes of the people are
fulfilled through the blessings of the Pir.
Bhadson is a developing town . It has
made tremendous progess in the field of industry and technology . It is
well-known all over India for manufacturing of harvester combines . The first
harvester combine in India was manufactured by Kartar Agro industries , Bhadson
. Now there are many firms which are manufacturing harvester combines and other
agricultural implements . Bhadson has become very famous for the manufacture of
wheat threshers , agricultural and farn machinery , suxh as tracter driven
combines , self-propelled combines with self-developed indigenous technology .
Gobindgarh This
town is situated at a distance of about 39 km from Nabha on G T Road , between khanna and Sihind. It is the most flourishing indus –
trial town in Patiala District and is well – known as Steel Town’ of India. According to the Sikh tradi- tions,
this town has flourished as Steel Town’ because of the blessings of Guru Hargobind
the sixth Guru, who stayed here for
sometime . the town itself derives its
name from Guru Hargobind .
The sagacious
Maharaja Hira Singh of Nabha
sowed the seeds of industry by starting
some industrial units in his
town in 1902. Maharaja Pratap Singh
took some special measures for the industrial
development of the town. Accordingly, Gobindgarh was declared
a free trade zone for steel by Maharaja Pratap Singh in 1928. Thereafter, it began to make tremendous progress
in steel business. The first steel re-rolling mill was established at
Gobindgarh in 1940. There are now more than 300 steel re-rolling mills here.
These mills are exporting re-rolling steel to various parts of the country and
also to some foreign countires. It is due to vast industrial activity that this
town has almost touched Khanna Town in Ludhiana District and both towns look like as one town. Since
expansion towards Khanna town is not possible, a number of steel re-rolling
mills are being established on Gobindgarh-Amloh road. Due to extensive steel
business, this town mayrightly be called ‘Bermingham’ of Punjab.
The Municipality of Gobindgarh has no dearth of
financial resources and as such people of this town are enjoying all the civic
amenities of life. It is maintaining a beautiful Rose Garden and an indoor
stadium. A modern bus-stand has also been got constructed by municipality. The
cemetry made by the municipal committee is also quite modern one. Roads and
strreets of this town are well-lighted. The water supply system of the
municipality is also commendable. It maintains water supply for 24 hours.
The important places of interest of the town are
briefly described as under:
Gurudwara Sri Har Gobind Sahib Ji. Chhevin Padshahi,
Mandi Gobindgarh.-This magnificent gurudwara is situated near railway station.
It has been built in the sacred memory of Guru Har Gobind who stayed here fir
two months during 1646. The Guru stayed nearby a big sarovar (tank) where the
present gurudwara has been built. This tank was then known as Barri Dhab (big
tank). It hs also been authenticated by the SGPC that the name then known as
‘Barri Dhab’ was adopted as ‘Gobindgarh’ after the name of Guru Har Gobind.
Regarding the historicity of the site of the gurudwara, Bhai Kahan Singh of Nabha,
In his book ‘Guru’ Shabad Ratanakar Mahankosh’ at page 430, has stated
(translation) as under:
“Mandi Gobindgarh has been named after the name of a
small village Gobindgarh situated in Tahsil and Police Station Amloh, where
sixth Guru of the Sikhs, Shree Guru Hargobind Sahib stayed for two months
during 1646, at the bank of a big darovar known in those days as Barri Dhab. In
Punjabi. He was accompained by his
followers and warriors. Some clash occurred between Guru Sahib Lashkar (sepoys)
and the then Mughal Fauj in which swords of some sepoys went blunt and broke. They then requested Guru
Sahib that there was not even a tiny tissue of steel in this area for repair of
their weapons, so how could they fight
further. Guru Sahib smilingly said, ‘some day this place will be abig steel
producing centre in the country where you say that nosteeel is available for
repair of he weapons.” Then the sepoys were directed to a nearly place, where
they found some steel scraps and repaired their weapons. The village (repair
place) is now known as Lohar Majra.”
Therefore, according to the Sikh traditions, Mandi
Gobindgarh has become the biggest steel re-rolling centre of the country, due
to the blessings of Guru Har Gobind.
The structure of the gurudwara is marvellous. There is
a big tank for taking holy bath. A very grand hall is being built for
congregations. People of surrounding area visit this place in Large numbers
every month during Puranmashi (full-moon). A big annual fair is also held at
this place in the month of June at the birthday of Guru Har Gobind.
Ram Mandir, Gobindgarh. – This temple has recently
been built near the G.T Road. It is visited by a large number of people. There
are grand idols of Lord Hunuman, Durga Mata, Ram, Laxman and Sita installed in the temple. This
temple is maintained by atrust known as ’Ram Mandir Trust’. Adjacent to the
temple, there is a grand dharamshala known as ‘Ram Bhawan’ which has also been
built by the trust. This dharamshala has quite modern structure and provides
adequate amenities for accommodating
visitors and marriage parities.
Rajpura
Headquarters of the subdivision/tahsil of the same
name, Rajpura is situated 28 km to the northeast of Patiala City on the Sher
Shah Suri Marg. It is also a railway
junction on th Delhi-Amritsar-railway line and is connected with
Bathinda through the Rajpura-Bathinda railway line
The ancient history of the town goes back to the
period of Mahabharats . Many coins have been found belonging to Yaudheyas, an
ancient race who took kan active part in the war of Mahabharata. It is evident
from this numismatic evidence that this place was once the headquarters of
Yaudheys during the ancient times.
The
town is believed to have been founded by Raja Todar Mal ,Akbar’s famous
minister and was once the headquarters of Pinjaur Nijamat in the erstwhile
State of Patiala. As Todar Mal had the title of Raja the town founded by him
came to be known as Rajpura. A big serai with outer dimensions of 450’X450’ is
said to have been built here by Sher Suri for the halt of army and caravans.
This huge building is now in a dilapidated condition. New constructions have
replaced some of its decayed portions. A few Government offices are located in
the serai. Another old building in the city is Thakurdwara, the supposed first
building built by Raja Todar Mal in the 16th century . It has been
partly preserved and partly renovated and some portions of it are extinct.
Rajpura
is a fast developing town. It has been gaining in Population since 1901 when
its population was only 3,511.After partition of the country in 1947 , its
population rose to 23,310, as per 1951 Census because of migration from
Pakistan in 1947. The population of the town further rose to 49,214 in 1971.
The Present importance of the town is due to the newly developed Rajpura
Township . Majority of its inhabitants had migrated mostly from bhawalpur
district of Pakistan on partition of the country. The population of the town as
per 1981 Census was 58,645. At present , Rajpura is the biggest town of the
district after Patiala City.
There
are two markets in the township, one for foodgrains and the other for chillies.
Rajpura is fast developing into an important industrial centre. The Dalima
Biscuit Factory Ltd., Amrit Banaspati Co.Ltd., Road Master Industries (Pvt.)
Ltd., Industrial Cables Ltd., (I C L ) and bharat Commercial and Industrial
Ltd., are some of the major industrial units of the town.
The
town has Class II municipality. It has developed a beautiful park for the
recreation of people.
Banur
Banur
falls in Rajpura Tahsil and is one of the important historical places in the
district. It is situated 14 km north-east on Rajpura –Chandigarh road.According
to 1981 Census, the population of the
town was 7,453, as against 5,459 in 1971.
Banur
is an ancient town and its original name was Popa Nagri or Pushpa Wati, the
city of Flowers. It was once famous for the scent distilled from its flowers
which were grown extensively for commercial pupose.
It is
also believed that Banur was the native place of famous musician Madhavanala,
who was a contemporary of King Vikramaditya of Ujjain. He had acquired a great
knowledge in the art of music. He played on his flute which emitted sweet
tunes. The women who happened to hear them swayed in exotic outburst,
completely oblivious of all household
chores.
In the
medieval period, the reputed females musician Banno had her home in Pushpavati
which, after banno’s name, came to be called as Bannowar to be later on known
as Banur. According to local tradition, Emperor Akbar had come to Banur for
entertainment . He implored upon Banno to sing the musical measure Deepak.
Banno at first hesitated on the ground that the recitation of this musical
measure would result in the inveitable uncontrolled conflagration. As Akbar as
she sang Deepak, the audience felt a burning sensation in their bodies.
Consequently , Banno was requested to stop her performance. This, however, was
not possible as only the musical could cause a retraction of the Deepak tune.
At last, Channo of the neighbouring place ,chhat, came to the rescue of the
audience . Next to Banno, she possessed mastry
over music. She was requested to sing Malar tune which she did. As soon
as Channo started singing. Clouds gathered in response and sent down showers to
becalm the atmosphere of inflammation. It was in this manner that Akbar was
saved from the facturl influence of the Deepak tune. There exists a shrine at
Banur in the memory of Mai Banno. Nearby, there is a well which is known after
her.
Prior
to Akbar , Babur also halted at Banur in 1526 and it was at this place that he
received the intelligence that Ibraham Lodhi was marching towards Panipat. The
Tuzik-I-Babari contains a picturesque account of the valley of Ghaggar near
Banur.
The
flourishing town of banur was destroyed to such an extent by Banda Bahadur in
1710 that it could never regain its former glory. A Gurudwara commemorating
Banda Bahadur’s victory over banur still exists at the place. It was from banur
that Banda proceeded for sirhind. Nearby the gurudwara , there are ruins of an
old fort.
During
the Mughal period, banur was pargana of sirhind Province. It was wrested from
the Mughals by the Singhpuria Sikhs and Amar Singh , the then Maharaja of
Patiala. Later on , it came under the exclusive control of this Phulkian rulers
of Patiala State.The ruins found in the vicinity of this place speak of its
ancient glory.
There
are a higher secondary school, a middle school, 2 primary schools and a civil
dispensary in the town . It has a Class II municipality.
M.C.
Zoological Park, Chhat Bir
M.C.
Zoological Park,named after late Shri Mahendra Mohan Chaudhary, the then
Governor of Punjab, was declared open to public on 13 April 1977. It is
situated at a distance of about 20 km from chandigarh on Chandigarh –Patiala
road in the natural surroundings of the green forests of Chhat Bir, spread over
an area of 202 hectares. It is the most modern Zoo of its kind set up in tune
with the psychological and physical needs of the individual animals. Chhat Bir
today is the larges Zoo in Northern India and it is the only one in India with
a Deer Safari.
The
Zoo houses 46 specials of animals and 65 species of birds and has a total
populatin of 1,075. The main animals in
the Zoo are lions, tigers,panthers, brown
bears, hippos, Yaks, elephants, gibbons, mithuns, deer, African capped
buffalo, primates,etc. The important birds
are cassowary, emu, black swans, rosy pelicans, adjutant and painted
storks, pheasants, etc. The Linon Safari and deer safari spread over areas of 8
and 12 hectares , respectively are unique , where the wild animals roam about
freely .
Specious walk through avaiary provides opportunity to visitors to go
very close to colourful and charming birds like painted storks , black necked
storms , muscovy ducks , demoiselle cranes , bar headed geese , etc . Small
bird enclosures with budgrigars , parakeets , love birds , myna tree-pie ,
turkey , etc . have always fascinated one and all . For water birds , three
small water features and one shallow lake have been provided . A large number
of birds from Siberia and Ladakh migrate to these water features during winters
. The animals and birds are in perfect health and are breeding well because of
the presence of ideal hygienic conditions , supply of balanced diet and clean
drinking water . Topiarries of pre-historic animals have also been set up .
The
Zoological Park is frequented by all sections of society . Students and
research scholars of biology and veterinary science specially visit the Zoo
with a view to study the behaviour of animals . About 2.5 lakhs visitors visit
this zoo annually .Facilities like tow trolley , elephant ride , picnic spots ,
canteens & restaurant , children park and film shows on wildlife are
available for the visitors .
Drea Bassi is a small municple town in Rajpura Tahsil . It is also a
sub-tahsil of Rajpura Tahsil . It is situated on chandigarh-Delhi road at a
distance of 20 km from the State headquaters . It is 2 km from Ghaggar Railway
Station .
The town formed part of erstwhile Kalsia State whose headquarters were at chhachhrauli near Jagadhari ( now in Ambala District of
Haryana) . The prefix of the town derives its name from ‘Dera’ which is about 1
km from the municipal limits of the town. At Dera, there was big fort of Mughal
times which was used as a rest house by the Kalsia rulers. The remnants of the ruined fort are still visible at the sight.
However, later on during the times of Ravi sher singh , the last ruler of
Kalsia state. A rest house was built in the town where now the office of Naib
Tahsildar is located. Immediately after his coronation as the ruler of Kalsia
State, Ravi Sher Singh visited Dera Bassi in 1922. People in large numbers
gathered at Dera Bassi to Pay their respects to the new ruler and paid
nazrana or tribute to him. After it s merger with pepsu, Dera Bassi became Part
of Patiala District.
Before
partition, Dera Bassi was an important centre of trade in respect of Knives,
scissors, razors, spades, axes and durries , which were used to be exported. Due to its proximity to Chandigarh ,
its population is increasing day by day. As compared to 5,807 in 1971, its population rose to 7,421 in 1981
as per Census Report. Government employees, unable to build up residential
houses at Chandigarh due to high
prices, prefer to build houses at this place. The rapid industrial development
of the surrounding area of the town is also responsible for the rise in
population.
The
town has degree college , a civil hospital, two dispensaries, a veterinary
hospital, a telephone exhange and three high schools.
Rani Majra
It is a small village suitated at a distance
of 20 km from Dera Bassi. Its population according to 1981 Census was 1,267 as
agianst 850 in 1971.
There
is an historical gurdwara constructed in the memory of Guru Gobind Singh who
alongwith other members of the family stayed here for one month while on his
way from Patna Sahib to Anandpur Sahib. It is believed that after leaving
Lakhnaur Sahib (now in Ambala District of Haryana), the Guru stayed here before
marching towards Anadpur Sahib.
There
are a high school and a dispensary in the village.
Shiv Temple, Nilas Kalan
The
ancient temple of Shiva is located in village Nilas Kalan , which is about 6 km from Rajpura , the tahsil
headquarters. An approach road leads right upto the temple. The history of the
temple dates back to 450 years when Shiv linga (phallus) was discovered at this
place. Subsequently a temple was constructed here.
The
temple is held in great reverence and is visited by devotees from distant
places . The people of Rajpura and adjoining areas, however, visit the temple
frequently. A big fair is held here on the occasion of Shivratri in the month
of February . A large number of devotees from various parts of punjab as well
as the adjoining states visit the place. People have to stand in long queues
for hours to pay their homage to the deity.
The
most common proverbial saying about the Nilas Shiv Temple is ‘Ya Shiv Kailash
da, ya Shiv Nilas da’ ( Lord Shiva is known either kailash or by Nilas).
Jand Mangholi
This
village is about 8 km from Shambhu barrier. There is a famous gurudwara ,known
as Gurudwara Nathana Sahib built in the memory of Guru Amar Dass who used to
visit this place . Originally , this place was an abode of Naths (Known as
Nathana da dera). The Ninth and Tenth Sikh Gurus are also believed to have
visited this place. A magnificent sarovar ( tank) has been constructed in the gurudwara.
A Big
fair is held here on the occasion of Maghi, which attracts a large number of
people.
Mughal Serai, Shambhu
Mughal Serai is
situated on Sher Shah Suri Marg about 11 km
from Rajpura, near Shambhu barrier. It was originally built by Sher Shah
Suri. It lay on the route to Delhi and provided shelter to the *caravans of
merchants. It also served as a dak chowkie and later on as military and police
post. The serai was rebuilt by Mughals which evident from its style. It has
been well-maintained by the Punjab
Archaeology Department as a tourist spot. It is visited by a large
number of people on week ends.
Harpalpur
The village is about 11 km from
Rajpura, the tahsil headquarters. Its population according to 1981 Census was
2,502 , as agianst 2,125 in 1971.
There is an old historical gurudwara built in the
memory of Guru Teg Bahadur who visited this place during AD 1674 before
proceeding towards Delhi for supreme sacrifice. The Guru came to this place
from Hymayunpur via Naukheri and kabulpur, all places falling in Rajpura
tahsil. It was from this place that the Guru went to Bahadurgarh (near Patiala)
where he stayed for four months.
Harpalpur
is also known for a small monastery of naths. Shivratri is celebrated with
great enthusiasm at this place and food is distributed on the occasion.
There
is also a small pond on the outskirts of the village known as Ram Talai.
Children suffering from sokara are believed to be cured through a bath in the
holy pond.
One
can see a large number of peacocks moving about freely in the village. It is
said that according to the traditions of the village , no peacock is killed.
There
is a Government dispensary, a post office and a high school in the village.
Kaimla
Kaimla
, Popularly known as ‘kaimlon’ is 5 km from Dera Bassi and is an important
place of pilgrimage. It is believed that Pandvas had stayed at this place for
some time. There is a big tank which is surrounded by temples. There are also a
large number of very old kaimal trees, the whole environment speaks that it
must had been a famous pilgrimage place in the ancient times. There is an old
Shiva temple, besides the temples of vishwa Karma, Lord Krishana, Ravidas and Rishi Balmiki.
A
special feature worth mentioning about Kaimla is that langar (community
Kitchen) is served to the people visiting the place.
Gurudwara Nabha Sahib
Gurudwara
Nabha Sahib is situated on Chandigarh Rajpura road, about 1 ½ km from Zirakpur.
It has been built in the memory of Bhai Jaita who had carried the head of Guru
Teg Bahadur after his martyrdom in Delhi in AD 1674. Bhai Jaita had stayed here
for one night. While going towards Anandpur Sahib. Beside the gurudwara, there
is a tomb of Pir Dargahi Shah who gave shelter to bhai Jaita for the night. As
the pir had become too old to visit Anandpur Sahib, he sent a request through
bhai Jaita to the Guru Gobind Singh
left Panota Sahib for Anandpur sahib, he met the Pir at his place after
visiting Nada (Haryana) and Dhakauli Villages. Banda Bahadur is also said to
have stayed at this place before attacking Sirhind. It was from this place that
Banda Bahadur wrote a warning letter to Wazir Khan, the Faujdar of Sirhind . He
also issued hukamnamas ( orders) to the Sikhs to gather in large number to
attack Sirhind.
Lalru
It is
situated between Dera Bassi and Ambala on the main road. Lalru was a tahsil in
Pinjaur Nizamat of erstwhile State of Patiala. It is now the biggest panchayat
in Patiala District. According to 1981 Census, its population was 8,433, as
against 6,885 in 1971.
Lalru
is believed to have been founded by one Gujjar named Lalru. Maharaja Yadvindra
Singh of Patiala played a significant role in setting up of mandi at Lalru.
Lalru has now a well developed mandi, a market.The main Chandigarh-Ambala road
divides Lalru village and Lalru Mandi. A Gas Refilling Plant of Bharat
Petroleum is being set up at about 1 ½ km from Lalru.
Gurudwara Baoli Sahib, Dhakauli
Gurudwara
Baoli Sahib is located in village Dhakauli, about 1 ½ km from Zirakpur. It has
been built to commemorate the memory of Guru Gobind Singh who stayed here for
some time while returning from Paonta Sahib to Anandpur Sahib. Guru Gobind
Singh reached this place after his stay at Nada Sahib, across the Ghaggar near
Panchkula ( now in Haryana State). When Guru Gobind Singh visited Dhakauli, he
came to know that the people of this village were facing much hardship due to
shortage of water in the area. Even water for drinking purpose was not
available . The people had to bring water from Sukhna rivulet. Moreover, water
did not flow in the said rivulet for whole of the year. Realising the
difficulties of the people , Guru Gobind Singh struck an arrow in the ground
and water sprang from the place where now Gurudwara Baoli Sahib stands.
Gurudwara
Baoli Sahib is well connected with Chandigarh through local bus service run by
the Chandigarh Transport Undertaking.
Samana
Headquarters
of the subdivison /tahsil of the same name , Samana is 30 km south-west of
patiala on Patiala –Jind raod. Its population as per 1981 Census was 31,282.
The
town is of considerable antiquity. It was a flourishing town even during the
days of Raja Jai pal who ruled over Punjab during the tenth Century. It appears
that during ancient times, there was Hindu settlement known as Ramgarh. During
the on slaughts of Muslims , it came to be known as Imamgarh. It continued over
by a fugitive samandia Gerneral from Irna,and with passage of time, Imamgarh
came to be known as Samania and then Samana.
In the times of Delhi Sultans, Samana had the
pride of being the headquarters of Samana province. It had palatial buildings,
metalled streets and bazars. During the times of delhi Sultans, the importance
of the town was mainly duet ot its strategic position as it lay on the main
road joining Multan with Delhi via Rohatak. Keeping in view the importance of
the town, most trustworthy persons were appointed its administrators. During the times of Balban, his sons Bughra Khan
was the most competent Governor. The famous poet amir Khusro was his Minister.
Probably it was also called Samina in those times. Allaudin Khilji also took
special measures to fortify samana in order to check Mongol invasion . It was a
great saints and scholars. The Maulvi
scholars used to impart education in Persian, Arabic and Medicine . Many of the
princes of medival period received their education at Samana . There were 22
families of sayyads who were very powerful and influential. The family of
Nizams of Hyderabad also originally belonged to Samana.
This town
received a great set-back when Sher Shah Suri changed the course of G T Road (
now Known as Sher Shah Suri Marg) which now passes through Sirhind. According ,
with the passage of time, during Mughal period ,Sirhind gained much importance
at the cost of Samana, Moreover, during the conflicts of the Sikhs With
Mughals, it became an accursed town for producing professional
executioner. The execuitioner who tortured Guru Arjan Dev to death during the
period of Jahangir is said to have belonged to Samana. Sayyad Jalal-u-din who
executed guru Teg bahadur at Delhi in 1675 and Shashal Beg and Bashal Beg who
murdered the two younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh at Sirhind, also belonged to
this place.
In
November 1709, Samana was attacked by Banda Bahadur with a considerable force
of Sikhs. As it had become a hateful town for the Sikhs, Samana became a
ghastly secne of gerneral massacre and loot for three days by the forces of
Banda Bahadur . All its palatial building became a heap of ruins. As Samana was
a very wealthy town inhabited by highly placed Sayyads and Mughals, the forces
of Banda Bahadur looted much wealth from this ancient town. The families of
Sayyad Jala-u-din and those persons who had deceived Guru Gobind Singh by
treacherously inducing him to evacuato the fort of Anandpur Sahib ere put to
death. Within a short time, the magnificent town was converted into a large
heap of ruins
Fateh Singh
was apponted as Governor of Samana by Banda Bahadur. Later on, in 1712, forces
of Bahadur Shah recaptured Samana. However, after the fall of Sirhind in 1763,
Samana was included in the Patiala State founded by Raja Ala Singh. But the
Phulkian rulers did not pay much attention to the development of the town. Once
a great centre of education and learning, samana had only one middle school
during the period of Phulkian rulers of erstwhile patiala State. However, after
its merger with Punjab in 1956 , it began to be developed slowly and slowly.
Samana
has a good market for wheat, paddy and
chillies. There are four high schools and
a college in the town. Devdarshan Dhoop Industries , Samana , which
commenced its dhoopbaits and agarbatis manufacturing activity on a very modest
scale in 1954 , enjoys an envialbe market in northern India. This unit now
exports its products to many other countries. It has won an Udyog Patra
award,besides numerous awards from States and export promotion organizations.
A
brief description of various places of interest of this town is given as under:
Gurudwara
Thara Sahib.- It is a historical gurudwara built in the memory of GuruTeg
Bahadur who stayed here for a few hours while going to Delhi for martyrdom. It
is said that the Guru and his followers felt much inconvenience as they could
not get water due to various obstructions created by the local Muhammadans.
Accordingly, the guru got dug a baoli (well) at the site of the gurudwara. Later on, Banda Bahadur got the
brick-work done around this well.People take bath in this baoli and it is believed that its sacred water has a
healing effect on various diseases, especially of children
Gurupurbs
are celebrated here with great enthusiasm. A large number of people visit this
sacred place on Puranmashi ( Full –moon ) every month.
After
spending a few hours at the site of
Gurudwara Thara Sahib, Guru Teg bahadur
stayed for the noght with a Sufi Saint at Garhi Nazir ( noe in kurukshertra
District of Haryana) at a distance of 2 km from Samana. A magnificent gurudwara
has also been built at this place in the sacred memory of the Guru. Though situated
in Haryana, a large number of people of Samana and surrounding areas visit this
place.
Jain
Dadawari Temple.- Dedicated to the sacred memory of the Shwetamber Jain Acharya—Jin
Chandra Suri ji, this Jain Dadawari Temple is
situated about 1 km south of the
town, on the Sehajpura village link road. The tastefully decorated and inlaid
cut glass work, the sanctum-sanctorum has sacred charan Paduka (foot- prints )
in marble of Jin Chandra Suri Maharaj. The original inscription has now been
covered by silver cover for protection.
The
Acharya, who was bestowed with divine power and knowledge breathed his last in
Mehrauli, near Qutab at Delhi. The temple at Samana was built on a sacred stone
brought from Meharauli temple by a Jaith Sadhu.
Acharya
Jin Chandra Suri had a jewel-like glow in his forehead and was therefore called
“Mahidhari” . He successfully saved the community from the cultural onslaughts
from Ghazni and Kandhar. He was honoured by the emperors of Delhi and was
successful in obtaining royal sanction for installation of Jain idols in
certain old and damaged temples of historical importance. His disciples were
invited by King Akbar when the latter was launching his Din-e-Ilahi.
The
temple has six acres of Land, comprising the temples and commemorative
samandhies of Jain Sadhus and famous local Jains. The Jain community of Samana
has a custom to offer obeisance at this temple whenever an adult is married.
The newly married couple comes to perform
pooja (prayer) with full pump and show. Interestingly ,the first mundan
( hair-cut) of male child born to any local Jain is performed in this temple.
Every
year, the birth day of Dada Guru Shri Jin Chandra Suri, falling on Bhadon Shudi
Ashtmi (about September) is celebrated by organizing a big festival here.
People from far and near come here to fullfil their desires.
This Dadawari Temple is maintained and controlled
by Jain Community of Samana.
Shanti
Nath jain Shwetamber Mandir.- It is by far the biggest Jain Temple in whole
of Patiala District.
A
Life size and impressive main deity – the idol of Lord Shanti Nath is
adorned by four other Jain Tirthankaras, in the serene white marble of sanctum
sanctorum. The “Vedi” (canopy) above these five idols is a real piece of
unmatching art. The whole temple has white makrana marble decorated with
Italian black. On the upper floor, there is a black stone image of Bhagwan
Rishabh Dev- the First Tirthankar,
which is the oldest one and dates back to 1307 Bikrami (AD 1250) . It is said
to have been brought here from an adjacent temple, which had to be demolished
being old. Every year, this idol is taken around the city in the annual
Rath-Yatra.
The
holy kalpa Sutra, one of the 45 Jain, ‘Agam-Sutras’ written with pure gold, is
the most valuable treasure kept in this shrine. It is the most revered book of the Jains which contains an
illustrative life sketch of Lord
Mahavira. The golden lettered copy maintained in the temple is written with
grinded pure gold and its pictorial illustrations, also golden are very classic and fine example of
dedicated and devotional literary activites.
The
temple is maintained and controlled by Bhagwan Kunthu Nath Jain Samiti of Local
Jains.
Prachin
panchmukhi Shiv Mandir .- This ancient temple is situated in Ramgarh
locality of samana. Its affairs are managed by Shiv Shankar Sewa Samiti Mandir
Ramgarh. A small piece of land is also attached to the temple. A large number
of people visit this temple on the occasion of Shivratri when a big fair is
held here.
Patran
It is
headquarters of Patran Sub-Tahsil and is about 25 km from Sangru. It has
notified area committee. Patran is well-known market for paddy and wheat. There
are about 28 shellers in the town . As it lies on the maon road to Delhi , it
has gained great importance for transportation. There are about 550 trucks
operating from Patran. It has developed only during the last two decades .
During princely time, it was only a small
village and was known for a big lake named ‘Bhupindra Sagar’ which had been got
built by Maharaja bhupindra Singh of Patiala for hunting purpose near Partran .
According to local ,patran is also associated with the notorious Jagga Dacoit
who used to rob the rich and help the poor.
There
is an ancient dera known as Mai Dera which is visited by a large number of
people. It is situated amidst natural surroundings of old trees. In this
complex, there is also a tomb of Baba Suttewala and an ancient Shiva Temple.
Janam Ashtmi is celebrated here with great enthusiasm when a big fair is held.
Pataran
is a developing town from Samana on Patiala and its population as per 1981
Census was 7,998.
Tomb of Pir
Abdulla Sain, Nasupur. – It is
situated at a distance of 7 km road, near village Naspur. Local people are not
aware about the background of Pir Abdulla Sani. As communicated from generation
to generation , the tomb is believed to be belonging to Pir Abdulla Sani who had spiritual powers. People of the
surrounding areas come in large numbers on Thursday to pay their homage to the
Pir. The drivers of motor vehicles have much faith in the spiritual powers of
the saint. They frequently halt at this
place and make offering with the hope that the Pir will save them from
accidents. They have also made a significent contribution for the development of
the place. Land measuring 37 kanals and 16 marlas is attached with this place.
A big fair is held here on the occasion of ‘Ekadishi Nimani’, every
year. A large number of people of surrounding areas participated in it, Renowned singers are invited who entertain
the gathering with their songs. The famous wrestlers are also invited for
wrestling bouts. The winning wrestlers are given prizes.