The village that was once a royal town

Near the Wagah Border, on the outskirts of Amritsar, lies a hidden gem. Steeped in history and folklore, this quaint village holds immense significance in the region's cultural tapestry.

Welcome to Pul Kanjari, a village established by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the legendary Sikh ruler. It bears witness to a fascinating tale of love and devotion between a Sikh king and a Muslim girl.

Sounds like a plot from a Bollywood film, doesn't it? You'd be surprised to know it is not. It is the tale of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Moran, a nautch dancer from the nearby village of Makhanpura, who used to perform in his royal court and later got married into his royal household.

The very name, 'Pul Kanjari', encapsulates a rich narrative: 'pul' means the bridge that was commissioned by Maharaja Ranjit Singh for Moran's ease of passage across canals, while 'Kanjari' was used to address dancers in those days. Historians contend that post her union with the Maharaja, Moran warranted a more dignified appellation, hence 'Pul Moran'.

In essence, Pul Moran (Pul Kanjari) not only chronicles a tale of love but also reverberates with themes of honour and respect, weaving together a narrative that celebrates both passion and pride.

Marvels of the village

Pul Kanjari is not just about the storied bridge but the delightful marvels of the village. The Maharaja would often rest here in a pavilion while passing by along with his royal troops and retinues. Though remnants of a fort and a baoli (a traditional bathing pool) remain, the site also has a temple, a Gurudwara, and a mosque–a testament to the Maharaja's secular vision. Adorned with intricate frescoes, the dome atop the baoli showcases scenes from Hindu scriptures and the royal court, embellished with delicate floral motifs.

The Shah Jahan connection

If you are mesmerised by the story of Maharaja and Moran, here's one more! Pul Kanjari has something in common with Agra's Taj Mahal. It was Emperor Shahjahan on whose orders a canal was dug in Pul Kanjari during the early seventeenth century. He did so to bring water from the river Ravi to Lahore for the irrigation of his cherished Shalimar gardens. Over this canal, a bridge would later be constructed on the orders of Maharaja Ranjit Singh for Moran. Even the bricks for the bridge were the same ones from Lahore that went into the construction of the Lahore Fort and the Taj Mahal. No wonder this bridge of love became a new trade route between Lahore and Amritsar!

Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 05:30 PM

Tales of war and a memorial

From love to war, Pul Kanjari has seen everything. During the tumultuous partition of the country in 1947, this serene village fell victim to almost overnight sabotage. Rioters transformed this once-iconic symbol of love and harmony into a picture of profound melancholy and loss. Today, though, this beautiful place has been reinstated by the government and has regained much of its former charm.

You will be surprised to know that it was also caught in the tumult of the Indo-Pak conflicts of 1965 and 1971. There is a war memorial here, where you can pay tribute to the brave souls who defended Pul Kanjari during this combat.

Healing the scars

While it bears the scars of the conflicts, you will be pleased to see the extensive renovation and preservation initiatives undertaken by the government. Pul Moran (Pul Kanjari) has undergone a remarkable transformation, with mosques, temples, and gurudwaras now adorning its landscape. These restorations have breathed new life into this cultural landmark. You must come once to cherish them all. And upon returning, you'll find that the legacy of Pul Kanjari remains steadfast and unyielding, waiting to be rediscovered time and again.

Beyond the bridge

Venture beyond Pul Kanjari and unlock a trove of captivating attractions. Immerse yourself in the solemn history of Jallianwala Bagh and delve into the poignant narratives of the Partition Museum. Explore the rich heritage of Gobindgarh Fort, marvel at the architectural splendour of Durgiana Temple, and experience the electrifying spectacle of the Attari-Wagah Border ceremony. There's a wealth of unforgettable experiences just waiting for you to explore!

Brimming with the tales of passion and courage, Pul Kanjari offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life of Amritsar. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture buff, or simply seeking solace with nature, a visit to Pul Kanjari promises a memorable experience.