GUJRAT Ram Pyari Mehal, one of the few majestic pre-partition buildings in Gujrat, reflects a classical and alluring combination of Greek and Roman orders of architecture.

Ram Pyari was the third wife of Sundar Das Chopra, a contractor of Dingah town, about 55 kilometres from Gujrat, who got constructed this building for his beloved wife in the second decade of the 20th century. The road that passes by the building was previously known as Ram Pyari Road, but later it was renamed as Circular Road and now it passes by Sohni Bazaar of pottery and ceramics in the walled city.

Ram Pyari Mehal`s edifice is a blend of Greek and Indian architecture. Its façade is a symbol of Greek Architectural Orders. The entrance of the main hall is supported by pillars, representing Greek Orders like Doric and Corinthian. These pillars are still in good condition. The special feature of the Greek Orders is that these are decorated with floral art and a figure, which is not Greek but looks like an Asian priest. The floor is cemented with Indian tiles which are worn out now and the walls are decorated with French tiles which still look fresh. The building has more than 40 rooms and four basements.

Ram Pyari`s family migrated to India during 1947 riots. In the following years the building was attached with the Government Fatima Jinnah College for use as a hostel. Later, the Gujrat district government decided to convert the building into a museum and handed it over to the Punjab Archaeology Department for its renovation. Weather has ravaged the beauty of the building since.

The Archaeology Department spent Rs5 million on renovation in three years, but academics are not satisfied with the work. They say renovation work is not up to the mark. University of Gujrat Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Nizamuddin told this scribe that he was ambitious to convert the building into a learning centre to cater to the needs of students.

`If the building is turned into a learning centre, we can arrange here seminars on higher education and promote history and culture of Gujrat. This will be a more vibrant way to use the building instead of sparing it solely for a museum.`