Shri Krishna Mandir, Gwadar

Last updated

Shri Krishna Mandir
شری کرشنا مندر
Religion
Affiliation Hinduism
DistrictGwadar District
Deity Krishna
Governing bodyMaintained by local Hindu community
Location
LocationShahi Bazaar, Gwadar
StateBalochistan
CountryPakistan
Architecture
Date establishedEstimated during Omani rule
CompletedUnknown

Shri Krishna Mandir also known locally as Om Mandir, is a Hindu temple located in the historic Shahi Bazaar area of Gwadar, in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. [1] [2] It is situated opposite to the Third FP Marine Camp (Gwadar Marine Camp). [3] The temple is situated adjacent to a Sunni mosque and an Ismaili Jamatkhana, exemplifying the city's tradition of religious harmony. [4]

Contents

History

The temple is believed to have been constructed during the period when Gwadar was under the rule of the Sultanate of Oman before the territory was ceded to Pakistan in 1958. [1] The exact date of construction is unknown, but the structure is thought to be several decades or even centuries old. By the late 20th century, the temple had fallen into disrepair due to lack of resources and the gradual decline of the Hindu population in Gwadar. [1]

Restoration

In 2002, Shri Krishna Mandir was restored with the support of the local Muslim community and members of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F). [1] The restoration effort was notable for its spirit of interfaith harmony and cooperation, as the temple is located in close proximity to a Sunni mosque and an Ismaili Jamatkhana. [1] [4]

Community and Worship

Although the Hindu population in Gwadar is very small, the temple remains active and continues to host religious functions during festivals such as Janmashtami, Diwali, and Holi. [1]

See also

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 "Rebuilt by Muslims, Hindu temple in Pakistan's Gwadar bears witness to legacy of pluralism". Arab News. 7 June 2022. Retrieved 31 May 2025.
  2. "Arab legacy lingers as Pakistan's Gwadar grows from tiny fishing town into port city". Arab News. 29 April 2019. Retrieved 31 May 2025.
  3. "Gwadar Belongs to Its People, A History They Built, Not Bought". 12 April 2025. Retrieved 31 May 2025.
  4. 1 2 "Gwadar Can Symbolise Balochistan's Traditional Religious Harmony". The Friday Times. 14 September 2023. Retrieved 31 May 2025.