Shawala Teja Singh temple in Pakistan opened for Hindus after 72 Years

Almost 1,000-year-old Shawala Teja Singh Temple located in Sialkot city of Pakistan, which was sealed for last 72 years, has been re-opened for devotees for the 1st time since partition. Decision to reopen temple was issued by Paksitan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Shawala Teja Singh Temple

History: Shawala Teja Singh temple is an ancient Hindu temple which was built by Sardar Teja Singh. It is dedicated to Hindu deity Shiva, in Sialkot in Punjab province of Pakistan. Pilgrims climb a steep staircase to reach temple. It was shut down during Partition. In1992 a mob protesting against demolition of Babri Masjid in India had reportedly damaged temple, following which Hindu pilgrims had stopped visiting it.

Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) looks after holy places of minorities in Pakistan. ETPB has opened Shawala Teja Singh temple after Partition on demand of local Hindu community. The board is also undertaking restoration work of this temple which is still underway and is expected to complete it shortly.

Significance of Re-opening:

Restoring and re-opening of Shawala Teja Singh temple is a major decision in favour of Hindu pilgrims who form biggest minority community in Pakistan. As per official estimates nearly 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan. Majority of them are settled in Sindh province where they share culture, traditions and language with Muslims.

Hindu pilgrim from India will also be able to visit the temple.