A Legacy of Architecture and Wisdom
We all know the grandeur of the Wazir Khan Mosque, the beauty of the Shahi Hammam, and many other jewels from Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s reign. But who was Wazir Khan? What was his real name, and what role did he play in Lahore’s history? Let’s explore the story of Hakim Ilm Ud Din Ansari, famously known as Wazir Khan, who rose to fame through his expertise in herbal medicine and wisdom, gaining a lasting place in history.
A Hakeem in the Royal Court
Wazir Khan’s journey began when Emperor Jahangir grew concerned about an incurable ailment affecting his wife, Noor Jahan. Desperate for a cure, Jahangir summoned many physicians but found no success. One of his courtiers recommended Hakim Sheikh Ilm-ud-din Ansari, a skilled healer from Chiniot. As the story goes, Hakim Ilm-ud-din was summoned and quickly identified the cause—a cyst under Noor Jahan’s foot. He devised an ingenious treatment using hot sand and knife-like tools, which cured the Empress without causing her pain.
Impressed by his expertise, Jahangir rewarded Hakim Ilm-ud-din with a prestigious position in the Royal Court. His skill earned him the title Wazir Khan, and he soon became the royal physician, not only to Jahangir but also to Shah Jahan and other members of the royal family.
Wazir Khan’s Rise to Power
As Wazir Khan’s influence grew, so did his relationship with Shah Jahan. When Shah Jahan faced disputes with his father, Jahangir, Wazir Khan was by his side. He even spent vast sums from his own wealth to support Shah Jahan during difficult times, cementing his loyalty to the future emperor. After Jahangir’s death, Shah Jahan ascended the throne, and Wazir Khan’s fortunes rose even higher. Shah Jahan gave him the title Nawab Wazir Khan during his coronation.
A Scholar and Philanthropist
Wazir Khan wasn’t just a physician—he was a scholar and a philanthropist. Born in Chiniot, Punjab, he studied Arabic, philosophy, and Tib (medicine) under the famous Hakim D‘avi, who had served in Akbar’s court. Wazir Khan quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the Governor of Lahore and the superintendent of the royal kitchen. His charitable nature extended beyond his royal duties. He spent his own wealth on various public works, including mosques, hospitals, wells, and gardens.
Wazir Khan and Lahore’s Transformation
One of Wazir Khan’s most notable achievements was the construction of the Wazir Khan Mosque in Lahore, built in 1634/1045 during Shah Jahan’s reign. The mosque remains an architectural marvel, known for its Kashkari tiles and intricate designs. Wazir Khan’s dedication to this mosque was so great that he donated much of his property to cover its expenses, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
His contributions weren’t limited to Lahore. In his hometown of Chiniot, he built caravansarais, wells, and fortified walls. He also founded the town of Wazirabad, named after him, near Gujranwala. Wazir Khan’s passion for architecture and philanthropy left a lasting legacy, with buildings and structures that continue to stand today.
Controversies and Conflicting Accounts
There are some controversies surrounding the dates of Wazir Khan’s governorship and the construction of the Wazir Khan Mosque. Some historians, like Muhammad Latif, suggest that Ali Mardan Khan was the governor of Lahore at the time of the mosque’s construction, while others, like M. Baqir, provide conflicting timelines. However, it is widely accepted that Wazir Khan was involved in the mosque’s construction and served as Lahore’s governor during Shah Jahan’s reign.
The Final Days of Wazir Khan
In his later years, Wazir Khan continued to serve as a trusted advisor to Shah Jahan. However, a tragic incident occurred when his horse stumbled while crossing Hathipol in Agra, causing him severe injury. His health deteriorated, and he passed away shortly after. Before his death, he wrote a will, bequeathing all his property to the emperor.
A Lasting Legacy
Wazir Khan may have passed, but his legacy lives on in the mosques, hammams, and buildings that he left behind. His architectural contributions, especially in Lahore, remain some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Wazir Khan Mosque, Shahi Hammam, and many other structures stand as a testament to his vision, wisdom, and generosity.
Wazir Khan’s story is one of dedication, intelligence, and service. As we walk through the sites he built, we must remember the man who played such a vital role in shaping Lahore’s architectural and cultural heritage.
Written by Tania Qureshi
The writer can be reached on twitter.com/TaniaQureshi