Faislabad earstwhile lyalpur

Night lit Ghanta Ghar, Faislabad

Faisalabad, formerly known as Lyallpur, was founded in 1892 during British colonial rule. It was established as a part of the British Empire's program to develop canal colonies in Punjab, specifically to encourage cotton cultivation. Named after Sir James Lyall, the then Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, it swiftly grew into a significant urban center due to its fertile land and irrigation from the Chenab River.

Hustle and bustle. The area looks bigger than the Connaught place in New Delhi

Our grandfather’s older brother, L Sham Das, contributed to the administrative development of Faisalabad. 

L Sham Das

L Bhagwan Das

As a Tehsildar, he held a crucial role in the local administration, overseeing revenue collection, land records, and other administrative duties. His transfer and subsequent posting in the newly established Tehsil emphasized the expanding administrative needs of Faisalabad's growing economy and population.

Ghanta Ghar As in Dec 2023

His office in Kachehri Bazar, one of the prominent markets centered around Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower), likely placed him at the heart of the city's administrative affairs. The Tehsil headquarters being established in such a central area signifies its importance in facilitating governance and serving the needs of the residents.

In Gurmukhi

In Hindi 

The Fortunately Gurmukhi and Hindi inscriptions are found engraved on the top of the Arch of the tower even today. They have remained untouched by the cruel hands of worst times.

The confluence of his professional responsibilities and Faisalabad's emergence as a significant agricultural and commercial hub must have provided him with a firsthand view of the city's growth and development.

L Murli Dhar

L Sham Das’s  foresight in purchasing that open land near the Tehsil office proved to be a remarkable decision. By transforming it into a commercial rental building, he laid the foundation for a significant real estate project. The subsequent development and expansion by his brother, L Murli Dhar, who had the support of middle brother L Bhagwan Das and his son, L Brahm Das, amplified the initial investment into a substantial commercial site.

L Brahm Das

Brahm Das's skill in construction and land development, coupled with his industry management, likely played a pivotal role in further growing the building into a large commercial enterprise. Securing finances from banks for such projects during that era required considerable influence and credibility, showcasing the family's standing in the community.

The rental income of Rs 750 per month during the partition era was a substantial amount, signifying the valuable nature of the property and its lucrative returns. The government's agreement of claim of Rs 2 Lacs to buy any property as part of the refugee settlement in the new India underscores its immense value and significance.

Grand view of 8 Bazars around Ghanta Ghar

Detailed View of 8 Bazars

Our property in Kachehri Bazar not only held financial worth but also symbolized the family's legacy, entrepreneurial acumen, and the astute decisions made by your grandfather and his descendants. It stands as a testament to their vision, enterprise, and contribution to the economic landscape of the region during a crucial period in history.