Tilla Jogian


Tilla Jogian, meaning 'hill of jogis,' is an abandoned Hindu temple and monastic complex situated in the Salt Range of Punjab, Pakistan. Before 1947, it served as the primary center for jogis in the Punjab region, accommodating numerous ascetics, pundits, and pilgrims, but experienced decline after the partition of India.

⭐ In the context of Tilla Jogian, prior to 1947, what role did this site primarily fulfill within the Punjab region?


⭐ Core Definition: Tilla Jogian

Tilla Jogian (Punjabi: ٹلا جوگیاں; Urdu: ٹلہ جوگیاں, meaning "hill of jogis "), also known as Balnath Tilla or Gorakh Tilla, is an abandoned Hindu temple and monastic complex located on the summit of the Tilla Jogian mountain in the Salt Range in the Jhelum district of Punjab province, Pakistan. Several temple structures exist at the site, albeit in a dilapidated and deteriorating condition. The summit of the mountain is heavily forested.

The complex was the most important centre for Hindu jogis in Punjab prior to 1947, and had housed hundreds of ascetics. In the pre-partition period, many pundits and yatris (pilgrims) visited the site, with the local environment being described as being lively. Post-partition, the site fell into disuse and decayed. The site is also important in Sikhism for its association with the founder of the Sikh faith, Guru Nanak. The site also features in the Waris Shah's version of the Punjabi folktale Heer Ranjha, being the location where Ranjha became a jogi and pierced his ears.

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HINT: Before 1947, Tilla Jogian was a significant religious center, specifically the most important location for Hindu jogis in the Punjab, housing hundreds of ascetics and attracting numerous pilgrims and religious scholars.

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