Panjatan Pak on Buland Darwaza

 

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Buland Dadrwaza, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and one of the highest gateways in the word, has the names of holy ‘Panjatan Pak’ inscribed on it. It has remained a little known fact among the lovers of pious FIVE, for it is not promptly displayed like the famous quote of Jesus Christ written in Persian. It  reads "Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary) said: 'The world is a Bridge, pass over it, but build no houses upon it. He who hopes for a day may hope for eternity, but the World endures but an hour. Spend it in prayer for the rest is unseen.'"

Built by Akbar-The Great to commemorate his victory over Gujrat at Fatehpur Sikri near Agra,the gateway is  a UNESCO world heritage site. The Mughal architecture seems to be at its best simply by a close look. It is perfect in symmetric and reflects a judicious mix of Persian and Hindu style of architecture, besides reflecting the secular outlook of the Mighty Mughal Emperor. Another unique feature of the gateway is the religious teachings from the holy Quran carved on its walls and roof. A visitor also gets details of Akbar’s achievements from the words inscribed on the walls. The religious teachings through calligraphy is attributed to a disciple of Sheikh Salim Chishti whose shrine welcomes visitors as one passes through the gateway from southern side of Fatehpur Sikri complex. However, name of one Ahmad Ali appears as calligrapher who carved the names of the Panjatan on one of the stone tiles of the gateway.

Reference; Available on request.

Image Courtesy Google