Shrines an Derelict Veracity- Case of Data Ganj Baksh: Shaikh Ali Bin Usman Al Hajveri Lahore

Abstract

The shrines and their custodians in our society are valued as respect in our society.  The department of Aukaf is in charge for managing the waqf properties attached to religious establishments. This paper discusses the institutional and legislative framework surrounding architectural conservation of shrines sited in Lahore along with other powers and urban milieu of these shrines that affect them. The data collected for this research are based on primary and secondary sources. The research findings are that there has been a recent trend of large-scale institutional approach towards reconstructing shrines buildings which generated with the Data Darbar Complex project. Other Grand mosques, along with public amenities and commercial areas are developed on waqf properties to increase revenues and facilitate za'ireen. Older but smaller mosques are mostly demolished in the wake of constructing modern and bigger mosques while shops are created on the peripheries to generate rental income. The future recommendation focuses on the need for incorporating aesthetical values in development projects aimed for places of spirituality. This demands inclusive project management techniques based on modern conservation trends in which the architects play a vital role. Training of the management staff and craftsman ship regarding the conservation techniques is highly needed for the future maintenance of these shrines.