Hiran Minar
This plaque stands before the entrance to the causeway by the concession stand. The Hiran Minar is the grave and monument of the beloved pet antelope of the fourth Mughal emperor Jahangir (1605-1627 AD), father of Shah Jahan, the fifth emperor who is renowned for constructions such as the Taj Mahal or the Shalimar Gardens.
TRANSCRIPTION:
Hiran Minar
Jahangir Pura (present Sheikhupura) was founded by Mughal Emperor Jahangir (1605-1627 AD). Royal hunting resort was built near Jahangir Pura under the supervision of Sikandar Moin by the order of Emperor Jahangir. A minar was constructed near the grave of his pet Antelope "MANS RAJ" in about (1050 AH - 1607 AD). Grave stone, in the shape of Antelope, was erected at his burial place by the order of Emperor as recorded in "Tuzk-e-Jahangiri". A stone tablet, inscribed by Mulla Muhammad Hussain Kashmiri who was the Chief of the elegant writers of the day, with following lines was fixed at the Minar.
Translation:
"In this enchanting place an antelope came into the World - holding net of the God knowing ruler (Nurud-Din Jahangir Badshah). In the space of one month, having overcome his desert fierceness, he became the head of the special antelopes".
Tank & Baradari
Facing the grand Minar on the east side is a vast tank with a causeway leading to the octagonal Baradari (Daulat Khana) built in the middle of the Tank. The Baradari was constructed under under the order of Emperor Jahangir in 1620 A.D., 13 years after the construction of the Minar. Later on, substantial additions and alterations were made in the complex by the order of Emperor Shah Jahan at a cost of Rupees 80,000/- in 1638 A.D. There is a square pavilion at each corner with a gateway to the Baradari. The tank is rectangular in shape measuring 895' x 752'; has a ramp and a parapet wall. During Mughal days, a channel was cut from the 'Aik rivulet' and connected with the desilting tank at its north-west corner. In addition, an elaborate system for filling up the tank with rain water from the catchment area was devised. The main gateway to the Baradari is a rectangular vestibule. The outer and inner surface of the gateway has been plastered and decorated