THATTA, Aug 30 Some 40 Shewadhari caretakers of historical Baba Siri Chandar Temple in Faqir Jo Goth near Thatta are still guarding the historical site, even after the inundation of Faqir Jo Goth and its vast adjoining areas due to a breach in Indus protective bund.

They had refused the authorities, including army, to evacuate.

The Mukhi Shewadhari (chief custodian), Deewan Bheru Mal, told Dawn that the magnificent stone structure of the temple, comprising about 24 residential rooms, a Bandharo (huge dining hall) and enormous prayers rooms en-housing the idols spreading over two acres, had been constructed some 500 centuries ago.

A 50-ft wooden flag wrapped in coloured cloth called Jhando Sahib was erected in the foreyard, the Mukhi Dari said, adding that Jhando Sahib was dismounted and remounted by a Muslim family of Aamu Mallah every year on 22nd day of Bhadun, according to Hindi calendar.

Baba Siri Chandar was the son of Baba Guru Nanak, who migrated from Nankana Sahib to Thatta in early 16th Century when it was ruled by Mirza Abdul Baqi, son of Mirza Essa Khan Tarkhan, who was known for spreading terror and tyranny. Baba Siri Chandar raised voice against the excesses of Mirza Baqi.

The temple also houses a 6-ft statue of Kanwar Bhagat, a mystic singer of Sindh, who was assassinated during pre-Partition violence in a moving train at Ruk railway station near Sukkur.