DefinePK

Abstract

Nestled in the heart of Chakwal district, near the imposing Jodh Mountain, Kusak Fort stands as a testament to the rich and diverse history of the Indian subcontinent. It was developed by the Janjua Hindu warrior clan dating back to over 1,000 years. This remarkable structure is a vital yet overlooked relic that embodies the cultural evolution of the region. After Independence in 1947, it became a part of Islamic Republic of Pakistan and is presently situated in the Chakwal district of central Punjab. As one of the few surviving remnants of the Hindu period, Kusak Fort and its Temple serves as an irreplaceable bridge between the past and present, offering invaluable insights into an era that has been largely compromised as most of the historical narratives focus on the Buddhist and Islamic periods. Because of decades of negligence it is disheartening to see the Temple within the Fort  in dilapidated condition and hence is on the risk of  being lost forever.This research seeks to document, protect, and revitalize the heritage of Hindu temple and its surrounding through a comprehensive approach that includes historical research through archives,  architectural documentation, and community engagement. The main objective is to stop further damage, prevent vandalism and renovate the Temple within the Fort. Strategies have been suggested to conserve the Temple and develop Kusak Fort into a cultural and tourist destination. Given its proximity to the Katas Raj Temples and Kallar Kahar, Kusak Fort has the potential to become a cornerstone of heritage tourism, drawing attention to the Hindu legacy of the region and enriching Pakistan’s multicultural historical narrative.