Valmiki Swamiji Mandir, Rawalpindi

Last updated
Maharishi Valmik Swamiji Mandir
Religion
Affiliation Hinduism
DistrictRawalpindi
Deity Valmiki
StatusActive
Location
LocationGracy Lines, Chaklala Cantonment, Rawalpindi
StatePunjab
CountryPakistan
Architecture
Completed1935

Valmik Swamiji Mandir (commonly called Valmiki Mandir or Balaknash Temple) is a Hindu temple located in the Gracy Lines neighbourhood of Chaklala Cantonment, Rawalpindi, in the Punjab state of Pakistan. The temple was built before the partition of British India and has served the local Hindu community as one of the principal places of worship in the area. [1] It is one of the 3 main Hindu temple in the Rawalpindi district, others being Lal Kurti Temple and the Shri Krishna mandir. [2] Festivals like Diwali and Holi are celebrated here. [3] [4]

Contents

History

The temple is reported to have been constructed in 1935 and has functioned since the pre-partition era as an active temple for Rawalpindi's Hindu residents. [5]

In August 2014, reports stated that Station Headquarters had issued notices to residents of Block 141, Gracy Lines, Chaklala, to vacate the area as part of local development (including construction of an educational and housing complex or military barracks). The move raised fears that the temple and nearby Hindu residences could be demolished. [5] [1]

Members of the local Hindu community petitioned the civil court seeking relief. Early reports noted a temporary stay order obtained against immediate demolition, though the stay provided only short-term respite and residents were reported to have been offered alternative accommodation. Authorities reportedly told the community they would build a replacement temple if relocation were required. [6]

See also

References

  1. 1 2 Hassan, Shiraz (28 August 2014). "Historic temple's days may be numbered". Dawn. Retrieved 27 August 2025.
  2. ↑ "Pindi lit up as Hindus celebrate 'Festival of Lights'". The Express Tribune. 2024-11-01. Retrieved 2025-08-27.
  3. ↑ Shirazi, Qaiser (2023-11-16). "Diwali lights up Rawalpindi temples". The Express Tribune. Retrieved 2025-08-27.
  4. ↑ Shirzai, Qaiser (2024-03-25). "Hindus celebrate festival of colours in Rawalpindi". The Express Tribune. Retrieved 2025-08-27.
  5. 1 2 "Historic Hindu temple facing demolition in Pakistan". The Times of India. 25 August 2014. Retrieved 27 August 2025.
  6. ↑ IANS (28 August 2014). "Hindu temple may be razed in Pakistan". Business Standard. Retrieved 27 August 2025.
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