A kerosene-operated table fan in working condition is displayed at the Information Centre & Mini Museum, Sher Shah Suri Jama Masjid (1540 AD), Bhera.See on the website bhera.org, along with the pictures. Under the category, Mosques of Bhera.The link is given below :
Such fans were popular before electrification in the late 19th century or early 20th century. They ran on a small kerosene oil burner or lamp that heated air to create pressure. As the air above the flame expanded and contracted, it drove the piston, or mechanical stringing — resulted in the rotation of the fan blades.
They were especially popular in areas without electricity, providing an affordable cooling solution. They were made of metal, with a kerosene tank at the base and a fan head mounted above. It operated by manual lighting of the wick and periodic refilling of kerosene in the tank. Maintenance required trimming the wick and regular cleaning to prevent soot buildup. Its side effects were light fumes and heat, making them less convenient indoors compared to electric fans. Moreover, their modest speed. For more information, see Wikipedia. A picture of it is given below :
The younger generation, unfamiliar with these once-essential items, may find this simple yet ingenious creation worth seeing during a visit to Jama Masjid, Bhera.
Zahid Mumtaz
