Resilience in Ruins: The Story of Harkishan Garh Fort, Haripur

Harkishan Garh Fort is a historical fort located in Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The fort was constructed during 1822–23 under the supervision of Governor Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa. This came after the Sikh annexation of Kashmir and Hazara. The fort has a 20-foot deep moat designed for defense. Initially built to strengthen Sikh control and enable further expansion, the fort served as the British administration's district headquarters from 1849 to 1853 before being relocated to Abbottabad. After Pakistan's formation, the police and revenue departments took control of different sections, allegedly modifying them against the Antiquities Act.

The sight of the enduring Harkishangarh Fort walls resisting time's passage brings a sense of history. These walls, once mighty, now stand as victims of time and decay. Crossing the trenches, the captivating walls reveal hidden stories and the hands that crafted them. The fort's decline and the passing of generations are evident in the debris.

Approaching the deep trench's edge, I'd sprint around it, i learned that how a makeshift bridge once spanned it. This led to the open courtyard of the ruined Harkishangarh fort. The gate arch and weathered walls are adorned with square hand-crafted stones in various shades. Cracks in the walls reveal ivy and greenery indicates its dilapidated state.Some parts remain intact, showcasing architectural skill and detailing.

I imagined linking historic Haveli of Hari Singh Nalwa at Katas Raj and Gujranwala with Harkishangarh Fort. The wooden gates and stone arches evoke a past era's grandeur. Symmetrical square stoned walls, four meters wide, and green pastures around decaying walls reminded me of a glorious past.

Due to ongoing wars between Afghans and Sikhs around 1813, the Afghans lost Attock Fort. Maharaja Ranjit Singh's victorious Sikh forces eventually conquered the region. General Hari Singh Nalwa played a crucial role, known for his fierce traits and strategic brilliance. He also left behind architectural legacies, including buildings, mosques, temples, and gardens.

Relics and monuments transcend religion, belonging to the human race. Time's passage remains slow, while the deeds of individuals like Hari Singh Nalwa continue to shape history. His benevolent acts, such as planting gardens and building water cisterns, still benefit the masses. Restoring and cherishing these relics sends a message of love for art, nature, and tranquility.