A recent collaboration has brought fresh attention to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s legacy, positioning Sikh heritage as a vital part of Punjab’s shared cultural history.

At the heart of this effort is the Toshakhana project, an exhibition and research initiative focused on objects from the Sikh imperial court. Through scholarship and public engagement, the project bridges borders, faiths, and narratives.

Cross-Border Collaboration

Led by scholars at LUMS with support from the Sikh Foundation, the Toshakhana project blends research with public storytelling. It’s not just about preserving artifacts, but sparking reflection on their place in Punjab’s rich, plural history.

A Resonant Exhibition

The exhibition in Lahore drew a warm response. Visitors connected with the craftsmanship and with the broader idea that Sikh heritage is part of a shared past, not a divided one.

Its success led to an invitation to showcase at ThinkFest, expanding its reach and impact.

Legacy in Action

Beyond the exhibit, the project lives on through films, catalogs, and ongoing research making Sikh material culture more accessible and relevant.

Why It Matters

At a time of divided narratives, Toshakhana offers a unifying vision: that history, when shared, can build dialogue and deepen understanding. The Sikh Foundation is proud to support this important work and its ongoing legacy.

Image Source: Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Toshakhāna: The Material Splendor of 19th Century Punjab (LUMS, 2025). Courtesy of Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) and The Sikh Foundation International.