Tucked away in the heart of Punjab, Nawanshahr—now officially known as Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar—carries within its folds a rich and fascinating history. From its origins in the 14th century during the reign of Alauddin Khilji to its modern-day recognition as the hometown of revolutionary Bhagat Singh, this town has witnessed the footprints of empires, battles, and cultural transformations.
A Town Built by Nausher Khan
The story of Nawanshahr begins in the early 1300s when Alauddin Khilji’s Afghan military chief, Nausher Khan, founded a settlement in this region. Originally called “Nausar,” the name gradually evolved into “Nawanshahr,” meaning “New City.” The town, though small in size, played a crucial role in the region’s military and trade dynamics.
Another popular theory about its name traces back to Rahon, a once-thriving trade hub connecting Punjab to Tibet and Central Asia. Some believe that when Rahon was devastated during the battle between Banda Singh Bahadur’s Sikh forces and the Mughals in 1710, its residents moved to a lower ground settlement, calling it “Neevan Vashon.” Over time, the name morphed into “Nawanshahr.”
The Rise of Nawanshahr
While Nawanshahr grew in prominence over time, Rahon, which once had the upper hand, faded into relative obscurity. In fact, Nawanshahr did not even have its own police station until the 1980s. Previously, the nearest police post was in Ghah Mandi, while Rahon retained its administrative importance. However, Nawanshahr’s strategic position on the highway connecting Jalandhar to Chandigarh ultimately made it the more prominent township.
Historian Didar Singh Shetra, who authored Sada Nawanshahr, highlights how the town’s role expanded with the advent of modern infrastructure. He also uncovered a fascinating historical tidbit: near Railmajra in the Shivalik Hills, two ancient caves, believed to have been used by Banda Singh Bahadur’s forces, still exist. These caves, which had openings on both ends, allowed troops to enter and exit strategically during battles. Today, a temple and gurdwara stand at these sites, preserving their historical essence.
Echoes of the Sikh Empire and the Mughals
Nawanshahr has deep-rooted connections to Sikh history. The region was significantly influenced by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the first ruler of the Sikh Empire. One of the town’s architectural gems, the Baradari Garden, was originally a summer resort for Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Enclosed by walls and adorned with fountains, streams, and lush greenery, the Baradari (meaning a structure with 12 doors) was a retreat for the legendary ruler. Recently, plans have been laid to restore this historical site, with initiatives to develop a library and WiFi-enabled public spaces.
The Mughal influence on Nawanshahr is also undeniable. A significant example is the village of Khan Khana, named after Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khanan, a poet and one of Emperor Akbar’s Navratnas. The presence of this historical figure in the region highlights the cultural exchanges that shaped the town.
Nawanshahr Becomes Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar
A defining moment in the town’s modern history came on November 7, 1995, when it was officially declared the 16th district of Punjab. Carved out from parts of Hoshiarpur and Jalandhar, Nawanshahr gained administrative significance. Later, in 2008, in honor of the revolutionary freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, it was renamed Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. His ancestral village, Khatkar Kalan, lies in the district and has since become a place of pilgrimage for those seeking inspiration from the martyr’s legacy.
At Khatkar Kalan, a museum dedicated to Bhagat Singh showcases exhibits from his life, including his personal belongings, letters, and historical documents. The site serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during India’s struggle for independence.
Temples, Gurudwaras, and Colonial Legacy
Beyond its political and military history, Nawanshahr is also home to several centuries-old temples and gurdwaras. The Shivala Banna Mal temple, constructed by Diwan Banna Mal, the Chief Minister of the Kapurthala state, still stands as an architectural marvel. Diwan Banna Mal, known for his grandeur, built the temple with enormous gates, as he often traveled on elephants.
One of Punjab’s oldest functioning schools, established during the British era in Rahon, continues to educate students to this day. Nawanshahr saw considerable development during British rule, particularly with the construction of a railway line connecting Rahon to Jejon in 1860.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
Today, Nawanshahr is a thriving town that balances its rich past with modern aspirations. Efforts to restore its historical sites, including the revamping of the Baradari Garden, reflect a growing awareness of preserving cultural heritage. Local leaders, historians, and citizens continue to celebrate the town’s deep connection to Sikh, Mughal, and British influences while ensuring that its legacy lives on for future generations.
From its humble beginnings as Nausher Khan’s stronghold to its status as Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s hometown, Nawanshahr remains a town of immense historical significance—a place where the echoes of the past meet the promise of the future.
