Reports indicate a daily targeting of Hindu temples in Pakistan. Following Pakistan’s independence, the number of temples was significantly higher. However, the current count has drastically decreased.
According to Pakistan Hindu Rights, in 1947, there were 428 temples in Pakistan. By 1990, 408 of these temples had been repurposed into hotels, schools, or madrasas by the government. Presently, only 22 temples remain in Pakistan.
Among the remaining temples, Sindh has the highest number with 11 temples. Punjab and Pakhtunkhwa each have 4 temples, while Balochistan has 3. For example, the Kalibari temple in Dara Ismail Khan has been replaced by the Taj Mahal Hotel, and a temple in Pakhtunkhwa has been completely destroyed. Additionally, a school now operates in the former Shiv Mandir in Kohat.
Pakistan is home to several prominent Hindu temples, which reflect the country’s rich cultural and religious diversity. These sites play a crucial role in preserving Hindu traditions and heritage.
In 2020, a 1300-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu was uncovered in Swat district by a team from the Archaeological Department, which included experts from Pakistan and Italy.
Despite the decrease in temple numbers, Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Karva Chauth, Shivratri, Dussehra, Holi, and Navratri are celebrated with enthusiasm in Pakistan. The Hindu population, approximately 3.8 million in a country of 240 million, gathers for these festivals, hosting events like bhajans and bhandaara.
