Maria Imran 
A viral video of a section of an old gurdwara in Punjab, Pakistan, being used to cook has brought much debate, outrage, and cross-examination across borders. The images, which were quickly shared on social media and shocked the Sikh communities and heritage activists, have rekindled a discussion about the urgent protection of heritage in Punjab (Pakistan) and the role of the authorities that are supposed to be protecting sacred places.
The event is even more delicate because of the strong spiritual background of the area and its connection with Guru Nanak Dev. To a lot of viewers the problem is not just a matter of a single building, it is indicative of a bigger trend of disregard and weak condition of minor heritage buildings. Following the spread of the clip, demands to be more transparent, accountable, and engage in dialogue across the borders with the aim of conserving common cultural inheritances increased.
Why the Video Struck a Nerve Far Beyond Social Media
This emotional response arises due to the symbolic meaning of the arousal of such shrines, as they are not an ordinary building, but the connection of faith and history to life. Critics believe that heritage protection in Punjab (Pakistan) cannot be achieved solely as a bureaucratic duty, and it should involve community control as well. As pilgrimages are still conducted under the official supervision, the controversy has also brought questions of monitoring mechanisms and realities on the ground. The viral moment has ultimately brought heritage protection in Punjab (Pakistan) into the international limelight, where there is no longer a choice of silence.
