Abstract
The current research focused on the “analytical aspects of change in architectural style” of Lahore that took place due to ethnographical, anthropological, and administrative changes brought about by Ranjīt Singh and the shift of architectural identity of Lahore. The study focused on the process of planning and construction of streets and buildings. It also aimed to build a narrative about the shift of architectural identity of the city. Furthermore, it also highlighted the new identity of the city gained during the reign of Mahārāja Ranjīt Singh. Many stories and folklores are linked to the origin of the name “Lahore” as the city was inhabited about 2000 B.C. According to the Hindu tradition, the word “Lahore” is based on the name of Loh, one of the sons of Rāma, the king of Ayūdhiya. Before the Sikh rāj, Lahore was governed by Mughals and was known as the “City of Gardens”. Afterwards, Lahore saw the Sikh period of devastation and extermination. Initially, Sikh sardārs fought for Lahore, looted the city, and then divided it into three parts. Each part was governed by a Sikh sardār. The anarchy of the Sikh period came to a halt with the beginning of Rāja Ranjīt Singh’s reign. He took a keen interest in the administration and construction of the city. Many new ḥavelis and gardens were constructed not only by Ranjīt Singh, however, also by his courtiers.