Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna's Search for His Ancestral Home in Amritsar
The newly appointed Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna, is on a personal mission to locate his family's ancestral home in Amritsar. This home, built by his grandfather Sarav Dayal, has significant historical value and sentimental importance to Justice Khanna. His search takes him to Katra Sher Singh, a locality near the famous Jallianwala Bagh, where the house once stood.
A Family Legacy
Sarav Dayal, the father of Justice HR Khanna and a distinguished lawyer of his time, played a prominent role in India’s legal and political circles. He was part of the committee formed to address the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919. In the years leading up to independence, he purchased two homes—one in Amritsar and another in Dalhousie. The house in Katra Sher Singh became central to the Khanna family’s story.
The Loss and Restoration
The house in Amritsar was desecrated and set on fire in 1947 during the partition. However, Sarav Dayal was able to restore it. Justice Khanna’s memories of visiting the house as a child remain vivid. Even as a young boy, he recalls seeing the house with a sign reading "Bauji," a tribute to his grandfather. This sign has since been preserved at their Dalhousie property.
The Search Continues
Even though the house was sold in 1970 after Sarav Dayal’s death, Justice Khanna remains dedicated to finding it. Each time he visits Amritsar, he makes a stop at Katra Sher Singh, hoping to find traces of his family’s former home. While the area has changed significantly over time, his memories and the legacy of his grandfather continue to guide his search.
Conclusion
Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s quest to find his family’s ancestral home in Amritsar is more than just a search for a physical place; it’s a journey into his personal history and family legacy. His memories of the house, coupled with the teachings and influence of his grandfather, continue to shape his identity today. This ongoing search is a reminder of the deep connections we have to our heritage and the enduring bonds of family.
Refrence From: www.ndtv.com