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By M.I. Rana
SADIQABAD, Nov 18: A historic palace at Jajja Abbasian Town in Khanpur tehsil has fallen apart owing to indifference of those at the helm. Built nearly two centuries ago in the late Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan Abbasi’s reign, about 12 kilometres off Khanpur, the palace sprawls over 30 acres. It is surrounded by an 100-acre agricultural land, which has been leased out to local cultivators.
Prince Salahuddin Abbasi, one of the descendants of the Nawab, is said to be the heir of the palace.
The 300-room building is now presenting a deserted look, as it is inhabited by no member of the Nawab family. One Ata Muhammad Burrah was entrusted with guarding the premises and the invaluable domestic goods, which remained under the use of the Bahawalpur’s ruling family whenever any member visited the palace.
The costly mats and carpets are lying rolled in one of the rooms. The metallic jugs that were once considered part of the assets, are lying scattered on the tables. In a similar condition are the age-old furniture — tables, beds and chairs — and almirahs. The water supply system at the palace brings back to mind memories of old days.
Also belonging of the Nawab family is a vast agricultural tract spreading over 250 acres in Mauza Sardargarh.
Despite all this, the facade of the palace still retains the grandeur of the past and is a glimpse of modern structure. It is undoubtedly one of the invaluable national assets.
