WCLA Restores Mughal-Era Craftsmanship at Anarkali Tomb by 2026

The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) is revitalizing the historic Anarkali Tomb, a 16th-century Mughal monument, with a Rs124 million restoration project launched in July 2024, set for completion by June 2026. This effort aims to preserve the tomb’s architectural grandeur and cultural significance, reinforcing Lahore’s rich heritage.

Nestled within Lahore’s Punjab Civil Secretariat, the octagonal Anarkali Tomb, built by Emperor Jahangir around 1615, stands as a testament to Mughal artistry. The WCLA has completed 70% of the conservation work, including full structural reinforcement, 90% of internal and external lime plastering, 80% of intricate stucco tracery, and 70% of traditional Ghalib Kari (ornamental ceiling work) and Muqarnas Kari (decorative vaulting). “Restoring the Anarkali Tomb is about reviving our cultural identity,” said Tania Qureshi, WCLA’s Director of Media & Marketing, emphasizing the use of traditional materials and expert craftsmen to ensure authenticity. The next phase will focus on flooring and fresco painting, with experts meticulously studying original artworks to maintain historical accuracy.

The tomb, linked to the legendary love story of Anarkali and Prince Salim (later Jahangir), carries profound cultural weight, though historical evidence of Anarkali’s existence remains debated. Once surrounded by gardens, the structure served as a church and archive under British rule, suffering neglect and whitewashing. The WCLA’s efforts aim to reverse this, uncovering hidden frescoes and restoring the tomb’s marble cenotaph, inscribed with the 99 names of Allah. This project not only preserves a monument but also positions the tomb as a future cultural tourism hub, drawing visitors to Lahore’s Mughal legacy.

While the initiative is a bold step, questions linger about long-term maintenance and government priorities. The tomb’s limited public access, due to its use as the Punjab Archives, underscores the need for broader heritage preservation strategies. As Lahore competes with global heritage sites like Samarkand, the WCLA’s work is a critical effort to safeguard Pakistan’s historical narrative. Yet, without sustained investment and oversight, such treasures risk fading into obscurity, leaving future generations disconnected from their past.