Memorial of Chotta Ghallughara marks the place where the first massacre that took place near Khanuwan, in Gurdaspur district of Punjab, which claimed the lives of 12 thousand Sikhs.
Efforts have been made to carve out a maiden surrounded by a commemoration court, which marks the sacred arena in which the event unfolded. In spite of an irregular shaped site, the complex itself was designed as a symmetrical form with the central passage leading the visitors to three different courts, making them aware of the event’s significance in the present day’s context.
A water channel running in the centre with pathways leading towards freedom symbolizes the belief that ‘independence is achieved through the events of struggle’. The victory tower with inscriptions those who died have been placed at the highest point of the site. Play of geometry and naturalistic surroundings wide platform for feeding birds suggests that peace and freedom are to be nurtured and they are not permanent. The memorial complex houses an entrance gateway, temporary and permanent gallery, interpretation centre, memorial tower, tourist information centre and open air theatre for outdoor functions. The exterior facade is a combination of nanakshai bricks and stone blended in the local traditional architectural style.
Client
Punjab Heritage and Tourism
Promotion Board
Location
Village Khanuwan
Gurdaspur (Punjab)
Area
Site : 10 Acres
Built-up : 2600 Sq. Mt.
Status
Built