The Ram Pyari Mahal is an early 20th-century palace in Gujrat District, Punjab, Pakistan.[1][2]

History

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Ram Pyari Mahal was built by contractor Sundar Das Chopra in 1918 for his third wife, Ram Pyari.[3][4] The adjacent street, originally named Ram Pyari Road, now forms part of the Circular Road skirting Sohni Bazaar, known for its pottery and ceramics in the Walled City.[1][2]

Following the migration of Ram Pyari's family to India amid the 1947 riots and partition, the building was temporarily repurposed to serve as a hostel for the Government Fatima Jinnah College.[1]

In 2021, it was converted into a museum.[3]

Architecture

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The Mahal's design showcases Greek and Indian influences, with the façade, Doric and Corinthian pillars reflecting Greek architectural orders.[1] The floor, laid with Indian tiles, and walls, adorned with French tiles, add to the structure's unique style.[1]

The building has over 40 rooms and four basements.[1]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d e f "Ram Pyari Mehal a masterpiece". DAWN.COM. March 24, 2009.
  2. ^ a b "Important Places | District Gujrat". Archived from the original on 2023-05-20. Retrieved 2023-05-20.
  3. ^ a b "Ram Pyari Museum to open its doors to visitors". The Express Tribune. April 18, 2021. Archived from the original on December 30, 2021. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  4. ^ Butt, Waseem Ashraf (October 9, 2020). "Renovation of Ram Pyari Mahal under way". DAWN.COM. Archived from the original on January 16, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.