Sikh Yatrees from UK, USA visit restored Poonch House, Bhagat Singh Gallery

LAHORE: A delegation of Sikh Yatrees from the United Kingdom and the United States on Saturday visited the historic Poonch House and Bhagat Singh Gallery, expressing deep appreciation for the Punjab government’s initiative to restore and preserve the heritage site.

The delegation was received and briefed by a guide from the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP), who explained the rich history of the Poonch House — originally constructed in 1849 and recently restored to its former grandeur by the Government of Punjab.

In the committee room, the visitors watched a documentary showcasing the building’s restoration process, its historical importance and the remarkable life and struggle of Shaheed Bhagat Singh — a key figure in India’s independence movement.

Later, the group toured the Bhagat Singh Gallery established within the building, which features exhibits depicting the revolutionary’s final days of trial in 1931. They were given a detailed briefing on Bhagat Singh’s life, his struggle against colonial rule, court proceedings, imprisonment and personal belongings displayed in the gallery.

The Yatrees also visited the replica courtroom recreated to resemble the original 1931 trial setting. They commended the Punjab government, as well as the Industries and Tourism departments, for the meticulous preservation of the historic building and for establishing an informative and evocative gallery honouring the legendary freedom fighter.

Before concluding their visit, the delegation browsed and purchased souvenirs and handicrafts related to the building and Bhagat Singh from a stall set up by the Punjab Small Industries Corporation (PSIC).