A few days ago, I came across an informative article in the prestigious British magazine, The Independent Urdu. According to the author, journalist Sajjad Azhar, the fort near Mangla Dam, associated with the hero of the sacred book Ramayana, Ram Chandra, is the best-preserved among the forts in Pothohar. With minimal effort, this fort, known as Ramkot Fort, can not only be restored but also transformed into a beautiful and ideal tourist spot. This grand fort, with its unique architectural style, is located on a high hill at the confluence of the Jhelum and Poonch rivers, surrounded by water on three sides. To reach the historic fort, one must take a boat. According to the magazine, there is still a temple on a slight elevation to the left of the main entrance, with niches for placing sacred idols. Though the walls of the temple have collapsed, a large red Shivling still remains, where offerings and vows were made in the past. Even today, undeniable evidence related to the Hindu religion is found in the fort, proving that at one time, this fort was a dwelling place for the Hindu population.
Historical studies reveal that from the 13th century onwards, the Pothohar region became a center of wars between various nations. The warlike Gakhar tribe also ruled here, who had special expertise in the construction and decoration of forts. This is why the Gakhars made several modifications to Ramkot Fort from a defensive perspective. It is said that a Gakhar chief named Ghalo built a fort at the northeastern edge of Mangla in the name of Jai Shri Ram Chandra, which later became known as Ramkot. The fort was renovated during the reign of Gakhar Queen Mangu, who carried out many construction works in Ramkot Fort during her rule.
Geographically, the importance of this fort can be gauged from the fact that an important ancient route to Srinagar, the capital of the paradisiacal valley of Kashmir, passed through here. During the Dogra rule in Kashmir, the fort was also used for military purposes. About 20 kilometers from Ramkot Fort lies the Mangla Fort, named after Raja Porus’ daughter, Rajkumari Mangla. Historians believe that about 2,500 years ago, a military battle between the Greek warrior Alexander the Great and Raja Porus’ armies took place near this historic fort located on Pakistani soil.
The British magazine also mentions an interesting point that on page 181 of “The Highlands of India” by Major General (R) David J.F. Newall, it is written that the hero of the Hindu religious book Ramayana, Ram Chandra, was born in Pharwala about 1,500 years before the arrival of the Gakhars. Perhaps this is why Ramkot was established in connection with Ram Chandra. Habib Shah Bukhari, in his book “Bhatwar: In the Mirror of Months and Years” on page 57, confirms this by writing that “Ramkot Fort was built on the northeastern edge of Mangla Dam in the name of Shri Ram Chandra.” Religiously, Ayodhya is considered the birthplace of Shri Ram, but historians believe that it is very difficult to determine the exact location. Many places in India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, and the Middle East are suggested as the possible birthplace of Shri Ram, one of which is Ramkot Fort near Mangla Dam in Pakistan.
It is unfortunate that this magnificent fort, with its glorious past and architectural brilliance, now presents the image of an abandoned ruin. I believe that it is the duty of the government to protect, restore, and ensure the security of sacred and historical sites of all religions. It is reassuring that today, Pakistan’s political and military leadership, the higher judiciary, and the administration are on the same page in restoring the religious sites of non-Muslim minorities. The opening of the Kartarpur Corridor is a living proof of promoting religious harmony. Similarly, the Supreme Court has issued orders for the restoration of Shri Param Hans Ji Maharaj in Karak and for the celebration of the Holi festival at the ancient Prahlad Mandir in Multan, winning the hearts of the non-Muslim community.
In my previous columns, I have highlighted various historical sites that, if properly attended to by the Government of Pakistan, could generate significant revenue. These financial resources could not only free us from foreign debts but also enhance Pakistan’s soft image globally by attracting a never-ending influx of international tourists. The religious and emotional attachment of the Hindu community worldwide, including in Pakistan, is deeply connected to Ramkot Fort, associated with Shri Ram Chandra. Therefore, not only is it our request, but it is also our longstanding desire that the Shivling temple located in Ramkot Fort be restored so that the pilgrimage can be resumed once again. If any government institution feels that they are unable to fulfill their responsibilities due to a lack of resources, the Pakistan Hindu Council is ready to play its full role in making this historical sacred site a top tourist destination in Pakistan.
