Old Tollinton Market and Now Exhibition Hall- Oldest Colonial Structure of Lahore

The historical building I want to show you today is the oldest colonial-era structure in Lahore. It was constructed in 1864. it served as the 'Punjab Great Exhibition Hall. It was famous for hosting some major exhibitions. Later on, it was converted into a marketplace. The functionality of the building changed through time. Even there was a time when the demolition of the building was being considered. But, thankful to circumstances and people of reason who stopped such acts.

Now, the old Tolinton Market is under the control of National College of Arts. This step is really good as it the authority controlling the building knows the worth of art, architecture, and heritage.

It is such a building that a passerby may neglects but i don't. Whenever i visit Anarkali Bazar Lahore, my eyes start searching to see this beautiful building that often reminds of Harry Potter series. Whenever i have visited this masterpiece of history, there are often few people inside seeing the exhibition. This makes me feel proud that i am among those few who could see and appreciate "a piece of beauty " that is "joy forever".

This time, i was accompained by a newbie, a familiar person yet a stranger, new roommate but a good acquaintance. I don't know how to explain him. I am often bad whenever the explanation part comes. Inside the building, the thesis projects of students from the National College of Arts (NCA) were on display. I was quite excited as there would be something interesting for me to see inside. The best part is that every time you get to see something new, a fresh, creative perspective that is a real treat for your imagination.

Every piece of art was a masterpiece. It was making quite difficult to compare them or take out the "best" one especially for someone like me, who has very little knowledge of art. I found all the paintings to be excellent, but among them, one particularly colorful piece stood out to me. It felt as it was reflecting pop culture and consumerism in some way, and I could see several other aspects within it. The second artpiece that made me stand and think for five minutes was the one that depicted a woman carrying a load of dowry items on her back. It is powerful reflection of our society. It shows how the practice of dowry has burdened girl and indeed her entire family.

Art is something that is deeply connected to our lives and personal experiences. it can be viewed from every dimension of life, and each individual perceives it in their own unique way. We were able to relate to the various paintings, drawings, and art pieces that were featured in this exhibition, and they popped a lot of thoughts in our minds.

After seeing this exhibition, we both went outside and took some pictures and then we headed to our hostel.