Unveiling Pakistan's Rich Tapestry: Exploring Historical Gems

 

 

 

Mohenjo Daro

 

 

Introduction:

Pakistan, a land brimming with cultural diversity and a rich tapestry of history, boasts a treasure trove of historical places that chronicle the nation's past. From ancient civilizations to colonial influences, the country is adorned with architectural wonders and archaeological sites that stand as a testament to its multifaceted heritage. Join us on a virtual journey as we explore some of Pakistan's most captivating historical places.

 

Mehargarh ruins

1.  1. Mehargarh:

 The archaeological site of Mehrgarh ( about 150 km from Quetta) is a tell, an artificial mound created as a result of successive settlements at the same site through generations. Initially likely seasonally occupied by pastoralist groups, the site was permanently inhabited form the aceramic Neolithic period in the 7th millennium BCE to the Chalcolithic period. The site was already abandoned in the mid-3rd millennium BCE, before the urbanised phase of the Indus Valley Civilization. Excavations uncovered mud-brick structures believed to be used for storage, remains of a Bronze Age village with its own craft zone, and several cemeteries. It was rediscovered in the 1970s after being exposed by a flash flood. I visited the area in 2022.

Road towards Mehargarh

 

 

2.  Mohenjo-Daro:

Our journey begins with Mohenjo-Daro, an archaeological marvel and a relic of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. Dating back to around 2600 BCE, Mohenjo-Daro is one of the world's earliest urban centers. The site showcases advanced city planning, with streets, houses, and a sophisticated drainage system. The Great Bath, an iconic structure at Mohenjo-Daro, speaks volumes about the ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants. I visited Mohenjo Daro in 1998 and since I was not in possession of a camera, so no photographs were taken.

 

3. Taxila:

Moving forward in time, we arrive at Taxila, an ancient city that served as a significant center of Buddhist learning and culture. With roots dating back to the Gandhara period, Taxila boasts well-preserved stupas, monasteries, and statues. The Taxila Museum is a must-visit, housing artifacts that provide a glimpse into the region's artistic and cultural heritage.

Badshahi Mosque

 

 

4. Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort:

Lahore, a city steeped in Mughal history. The Badshahi Mosque, an architectural masterpiece commissioned by Emperor Aurangzeb, stands as one of the largest mosques in the world. Adjacent to it, the Lahore Fort showcases a harmonious blend of Mughal, Sikh, and British architectural influences. The Shish Mahal, Naulakha Pavilion, and Sheesh Mahal within the fort are exquisite examples of Mughal craftsmanship. I have visited these sites many times.

                                 

Lahore Fort

5. Derawar Fort- Bahawalpur:

The Cholistan Desert comprises the western region of the Thar Desert in modern Pakistan, where archaeological evidence is present that the area was once inhabited by an Indus Valley culture. This culture once used the Hakra River to support their agricultural lifestyle. Although the river changed its flow, and the environment is now inhabitable, there remains evidence of up to a dozen fort structures. Derawar Fort is the best surviving structure of the remaining ruins. Derawar fort was built in the 9th century AD by Rai Jajja bhati, a Hindu Rajput ruler of the Bhati clan, as a tribute to emperor Rawal Deoraj Bhati of Jaisalmer and residents of Bahawalpur. The fort was initially known as Dera Rawal, and later referred to as Dera Rawar, which with the passage of time came to be pronounced Derawar, its present name.

Derawar Fort

There are many palaces in Bahawalpur like Sadiq Garh palace, Noor Mahal, Darbar Mahal and Gulzar Mahal. These will be covered in subsequent blogs.

 

Derawar Fort view

Sadiq Garh Palace

 

6. Shalimar Gardens:

Still in Lahore, the Shalimar Gardens offer a tranquil retreat. Built during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan, these gardens are a splendid example of Mughal landscape architecture. The terraced levels, flowing water channels, and fountains create a serene ambiance, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

 

7. Rohtas Fort:

Venturing into the heart of Pakistan, Rohtas Fort stands as a formidable structure built by the Afghan king “Sher Shah Suri” in the 16th century. The fort was constructed to thwart the return of the Mughal emperor Humayun. Its massive walls, 12 gates, and strategic location reflect the military prowess of its time.

 

8. Multan: The City of Saints:

Multan, often referred to as the 'City of Saints,' is known for its rich Sufi traditions. The city is adorned with historical gems such as the Multan Fort and the intricately designed Shah Rukn-e-Alam Shrine. The shrine, dedicated to the Sufi saint “Shah Rukn-e-Alam”, is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. I have visited Multan many times.

 

9. Quaid's Mausoleum:

Situated along Arabian Sea Karachi is the largest city of Pakistan, Muhammad Bin Qasim entered Sind in 712 AD through Debail (an ancient port located near modern Karachi).

No exploration of Pakistan's historical places is complete without paying homage to the founder of the nation. The Mazar-e-Quaid, the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi, is a symbol of Pakistan's independence. The white marble structure is a solemn tribute to the 'Father of the Nation' and serves as a place of reflection for citizens and visitors alike. I visited Quaid e Azam Mausoleum in 1993.

10. Great Persons of History and Indus Valley:

a. Alexander the Great Invasion:

In 326 BC Alexander the Great with his Greek and Macedonian army invaded coterminous Pakistan. Our ancestors fought like lions and almost killed him in what is now Multan. By the time he left our land large part of his army was destroyed. So this thread is to celebrate our ancestors who fought to protect our sacred Indus region and also the brave Alexander. It was the first meeting of coterminous Pakistan with the West. In the subsequent centuries, Greek culture and civilization took root in Gandhara region of coterminous of Pakistan which is modern North West Pakistan. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the Pakistan Army Museum celebrates Alexander and Porus and the Battle of Hydaspes.

             

Alexander the Great near Jhelum

b. Alberuni:

Along with Mahmud of Ghazni, Al Beruni visited India. He was a Persian scholar who came to India. He explained India in his book ‘Tahqiqi-e-Hind’. For his contribution, he has also been titled the father of Indology. Nandana Fort The site of Nandana Fort( near Jhelum-Pakistan) holds significance not just as a historical site but as a scientific place. It’s the same place where Muslim Scientist Al-Beruni measured the circumference of the earth in the 11th century.

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Nandana Fort- Jhelum

 

 

c. Marco Polo:

Marco Polo visited India between 1292-1294 AD. He was a European Scholar who visited South India during the reign of Rudramma Devi of Kakatiyas. He wrote “THE BOOK OF SIR MARCO POLO.” This book gives an invaluable account of Indian economic history. His book also has a mention of Lahore.

d.Ibn e Batuta:

He travelled to India from Morocco in the 14th century during the reign of Mohammed Bin Tughlaq and wrote “RIHLA.” He visited the city of Pak Pattan in present-day Pakistan.

e. Paradise Lost mentions Lahore:

John Milton (1608-74), who was blind bracketed Lahore with the finest cities of the world in his renowned book titled “Paradise Lost”. He says in book 10:-

"His eyes might there command whatever stood

City of old or modern fame, the seat

Of mightiest empire, from the destined walls

Of Cambalu, seat of Cathian Can,

And Samarcand by Oxus, Temir’s throne,

To Paquin of Sinaen Kings, and thence

To Agra and Lahore of Great Mogul..."

 

        f. Winston Churchill :

         He  Fought the Campaign in Pakistan in 1897 and wrote a book on the                     Malakand (KPK) Force.

        g. Will Durant:

        One of my favorite writers has also made a mention of Lahore in his book                Case for India. He visited India in 1930.

       h. Radio Pakistan Peshawar, Transmitter:

Peshawar Radio is the oldest station in Pakistan having an interesting story  as to how it came about. When Abdul Qayyum Khan, the renowned political leader of  N.W.F.P.  went to London during the Round Table Conference in the early   ‘30s, he became fascinated by the radio, which had started operating in  Britain about a decade ago. He personally met Marconi, the genius who had invented the machine, and requested him to donate one for the  N.W.F.P. Marconi promised to do so. Soon after the gift from Marconi, he arrived. The transmitter was engineered by Marconi himself'  installed in Peshawar and inaugurated by Rallop Griffith, the Governor.

    i. Arnold Toynbee:

Great historian Arnold Toynbee in his magnum opus A Study of History as well as his travelogue Between Oxus and Jumna, based on his travels through                  Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Northern India in 1960, mentioned that the subcontinent belonged to the Persian zone of cultural influence rather than the Arabic one. During his visit to Multan, he also met Mukhtar Masood famous Pakistani Urdu writer.

There are many more sites to be explored from historical importance in Kashmir and northern areas as well.

Conclusion:

Pakistan's historical places, each with its unique story, contribute to the rich narrative of the country's past. From ancient civilizations to Mughal grandeur and colonial influences, these sites stand as living testaments to Pakistan's diverse cultural heritage. Exploring these historical gems not only offers a glimpse into the past but also fosters a deep appreciation for the resilience and creativity of the people who shaped the nation. As custodians of these treasures, it is our responsibility to preserve and celebrate the historical legacy of Pakistan for generations to come.