About Punjab – Pakistan | History of Punjab Province

Punjab Province

Tracking The Glories of the Past

Heralding The Dawn of a Future

Province Punjab has been distinguished in every era because of its prolific, fruitful, and fertile lands. Punjab civilization is one of the ancient civilizations. It is due to the amalgamation of local and global cultures. The Capital city of Punjab is Lahore.

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History of Punjab Province

In primeval times, Punjab is termed “Sapat Sindhu” in the holy book of Arya’s “Rigveda”. Rigveda (sacred text)  has some phrases from 2400 B.C. However, it is difficult to tell when Sapat Sindhu became a part of Rigveda. According to the Britannica encyclopedia, the famous tourist Ibn Battuta first used the term “Punjab” in his travelogue.

In the past, Punjab was called by different names.  Some famous names were Punjab, Punj Do Aab, Punj Jinya Krishti, Punjnad, Whake, Gosh, Sapat Sindhu, and Hept Sindhu.

According to researchers, Punjab is Man’s first birthplace. They thought that it is the only place in Asia where about 60 million years old fossils were discovered. Punjab is the name of land irrigated by five rivers. It is a word in the Persian language that is a combination of “Punj” and “Aab”.

In the ancient ages, Punjab was the first battlefield for the invaders coming from the northwest passes. At those times, the defense system of Punjab was strong. The whole sub-continent was saved from foreign dominion. Arya faced a lot of opposition in Punjab. The war between Arya and the ten kings was fought near River Ravi in the Harappa surrounding.

The high-level civilization of Harappa is a manifestation of the existence of an excellent political system there.

In the koro Kheshter ground, a war was fought between Kors and Pandos. The states of king Poras and Maloha were prominent when the Great Alexander attacked this area. He fought with such courage, audacity, and fearlessness that it is engraved in the pages of history with indelible impressions.

Due to this militant quality of Punjabis, the sequence of Greek conquest was broken. The Great Alexander had to come back with a regret in his heart.

The historians have a conflict about the beginning of a historic era in Punjab.

It is assumed that it started after the arrival of Arya in this area (1600 B.C) and Rigveda. After that, Hakhamaneshi came into power. They invented coins. Their reign ended after the attack of the Greeks. Greeks promoted Buddhism. The Greeks’ government ended in just two years. After Alexander, Chander Gapat Moria ruled this area. Then, Bhakti overtook the subcontinent and established Taxila (Surkap).

Sakaya Shik (governed this area for 100 years), Parthi or Pehalwa (Gandhara Art initiated during this regime), Kishan (their era is the golden age of Buddhism), Sasani (their government lasted for forty years) Kedar Kishan (they came from Balkh) and Hun ( they ruled Punjab for two hundred years) are some important pages of Punjab’s deep-rooted history. Sanskrit was the official language. Hun was used to preaching to people. They built the largest temple in Multan. Kashmiri and then Hindu Shahi came into power. This sequence continued until the Arab influx.

Muhammad Bin Qasim occupied Sindh and after one year, Arabs conquered Multan. Thenceforth, Mehmood Ghaznavi subjugated Punjab and led the foundations of the First Islamic Government. Lahore was the province of Ghaznavi Sultanate. Sultans were also blessed with the Punjab reign.

The emperors changed over time. The Mughals era was a golden period for the sub-continent. They started a series of construction of grand buildings in the sub-continent, especially in Punjab.

Lal fort Delhi, Fateh Pur Sikri, Taj Mahal Agra, Taj Mahal, Shahjahan Mosque, renovation of Lahore fort, Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mosque, Shahi Mosque Lahore, Noor Jahan’s tomb, Shalimar Garden, Kamran Bara Dari, Jahangir’s tomb, Rohtas fort, GT road Peshawar to Kolkata, are the symbols of their keen interest in architect.

Sikhs took the advantage of Mughals’ weakness and conquered the various areas of Punjab. Shahi fort, Badshahi Mosque, Hazoori garden, and golden temple in Amar tassar are built by King Ranjeet Singh. At last, the Sikh era ended.

The British had a stronghold in India before the Sikh regime. However, it took one century to conquer Punjab. In 1849, Britishers subjugated Punjab with their planning. Their monarchy ended in 1857, after the freedom movement “Tehreek-e-Azadi”.

There was a time when the boundaries of Punjab (situated in the northwest of the sub-continent) were spreading from Sir Hind Shahreef to Khyber Pass and Kashmir to Karachi on the other side. Sometimes, the administration of Lahore was called Punjab province. The areas of D.G Khan, D.I. Khan, Peshawar, Banu, Kohat, Bahawalpur, Kangra, Kashmir, Hazara, Tibet, Ladakh, Jammu were included in the Punjab territory during the Sikh reign. British included Delhi, Hassar, and Ambala Division in Punjab.

In 1901, The Britishers separated the province KPK (North-West Frontier Province) from Punjab. In 1912, Delhi was declared a separate province.

Today’s Punjab 

Located at 40-27- and 34-1-degrees longitude and 10-69 to 20-75 degrees latitude, Punjab’s demarcated and undisputed boundaries after 14th August 1947 are as follows. In the north, the Himalayas range separates it from Tibet and Kashmir. KPK is situated in the northwest. The river Indus lies between KPK and Punjab. It has Balochistan in the west, Sindh in the south, and India (Hindustan) in the East.

Punjab’s total area is 205344 square kilometers. Its area is about 25.8 % of Pakistan’s total area. At the creation of Pakistan, it was the largest province of Pakistan in terms of population, and still, it is the largest province. Lahore is its capital.

In 1951, according to the first census, the total population of Punjab was 20541000. Nowadays, its population Is about 10 crores.

The mainland of Punjab is located at a greater distance from the poles and at a relatively short distance from the equator. Therefore, the duration of the winter season is less than the summer season. The southern areas are too hot. On the contrary to this, northern areas are cold. The weather is pleasant in February, March, and April. It is very hot from May to July. In some areas (Multan, Bahawalpur, Mianwali, and Bahawalnagar) the temperature goes beyond 48.

The rainy season starts at the end of July and goes till the mid of September. The winter season prevails from November to January. It is too cold in the northern areas of Punjab and the temperature drops below freezing.

Overall, it is agricultural land. A network of Canals is designed for irrigation and cultivation purposes. It is considered to be the best canal system in the World. The fertility and production of agricultural land depend on this Canal system.

Ancient Roots

The history of Punjab dates back to ancient times when the Indus Valley Civilization flourished along the banks of the mighty Indus River. The region has been a melting pot of diverse cultures, influenced by the Aryans, Persians, Greeks, and Mauryans. The city of Taxila, an ancient center of learning, stood as a beacon of wisdom, attracting scholars from far and wide.

Mauryan and Gupta Empires

Punjab played a pivotal role during the reign of the Mauryan and Gupta Empires. The great Mauryan emperor, Ashoka, embraced Buddhism, and remnants of his rock edicts can still be found in various parts of the province. The Gupta period marked an era of cultural and artistic flourishing, leaving an indelible imprint on Punjab’s heritage.

Islamic Influences

With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Punjab became a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange. The region saw the establishment of prominent Islamic centers, and Sufi saints played a crucial role in spreading the message of Islam. The city of Multan, with its ancient shrines, became a significant center of Sufi mysticism.

Mughal Splendor

The Mughal era stands as a golden chapter in Punjab’s history. Under the rule of Akbar, Lahore became the capital of the Mughal Empire, witnessing the construction of architectural marvels such as the Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort. The prosperity of this period is reflected in the rich gardens and exquisite artwork that dot the landscape.

British Colonial Period

The 19th century saw the arrival of the British in Punjab. The annexation of the region by the East India Company marked the beginning of a new chapter. The British developed infrastructure, introduced modern education, and established military cantonments. However, this period also witnessed significant sociopolitical changes that culminated in the struggle for independence.

Partition and Independence

The partition of British India in 1947 left an indelible mark on Punjab. The province was divided into West Punjab (now in Pakistan) and East Punjab (now in India). The partition resulted in massive migrations, communal violence, and the reconfiguration of cultural landscapes.

Post-Independence Era

Since gaining independence, Punjab in Pakistan has emerged as a powerhouse, contributing significantly to the nation’s agricultural and industrial sectors. Cities like Lahore have become vibrant centers of culture, education, and commerce. Despite challenges, the people of Punjab have demonstrated resilience and an unwavering commitment to progress.

Cultural Diversity and Heritage

Punjab’s cultural richness is reflected in its folk music, dance, and traditional festivals. Bhangra, a lively dance form, and the soulful tunes of Punjabi folk music have transcended regional boundaries, becoming global cultural phenomena.

Historical sites in Punjab

Badshahi Mosque (Lahore)

One of the largest mosques in the world, the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore is an architectural masterpiece from the Mughal era. Built during the reign of Aurangzeb in the 17th century, it boasts intricate marble inlay, elegant calligraphy, and a grand courtyard.

Lahore Fort

Adjacent to the Badshahi Mosque, the Lahore Fort is another marvel from the Mughal period. With its stunning Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), Shalimar Gardens, and historic structures, the fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Shalimar Gardens (Lahore)

Built by Shah Jahan, the Shalimar Gardens are a series of terraced levels adorned with flowing water channels, fountains, and pavilions. The gardens represent Mughal garden design at its zenith.

Sheikhupura Fort (Hiran Minar)

Located in Sheikhupura, the Hiran Minar is a unique structure built by Emperor Jahangir in memory of his beloved pet deer. The complex includes a large water tank and a pavilion.

Rohtas Fort (Jhelum)

Commissioned by Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century, Rohtas Fort is a military stronghold built to prevent the return of the Mughal emperor Humayun. The fort stands as an excellent example of medieval military architecture.

Taxila (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

An ancient archaeological site, Taxila was an important center for Buddhist learning and a significant trade and cultural hub. The ruins include stupas, monasteries, and archaeological remains dating back to the Gandhara period.

Derawar Fort (Bahawalpur)

Located in the Cholistan Desert, Derawar Fort is a massive and well-preserved structure. Built by the Rajputs, it has a distinct medieval feel and provides panoramic views of the surrounding desert.

Katas Raj Temples (Chakwal)

A complex of several ancient temples, the Katas Raj Temples are revered by Hindus. The main temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is surrounded by a pool fed by freshwater springs, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.

Ranikot Fort (The Great Wall of Sindh)

Often referred to as the Great Wall of Sindh, Ranikot Fort is the world’s largest fort, extending over 26 kilometers. Its origins are unclear, and it serves as an intriguing archaeological mystery.

Allama Iqbal’s Tomb (Lahore)

The final resting place of Allama Iqbal, a renowned poet, philosopher, and one of the founding fathers of Pakistan. The tomb is a symbol of national pride and an architectural tribute to his contributions.

Schools

• Aitchison College (Lahore): A prestigious boys’ boarding school with a rich history and a reputation for academic excellence.
• Convent of Jesus and Mary (Lahore): A well-known girls’ school with a tradition of providing quality education and a focus on holistic development.

Colleges

• Government College University (Lahore): A renowned institution with a history dating back to 1864, known for its academic rigor and contributions to education.
• Forman Christian College (FCC) University (Lahore): Established in 1864, FCC is one of the oldest colleges in South Asia, offering undergraduate and graduate programs.

Hospitals

• Aga Khan University Hospital (Lahore): Part of the Aga Khan Health Services network, providing high-quality healthcare services and medical education.
• Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital (Lahore): Founded by Imran Khan, this hospital is a leading center for cancer treatment and research.

Restaurants

• Cuckoo’s Den (Lahore): Located in the historic Walled City of Lahore, Cuckoo’s Den is known for its rooftop dining and traditional Pakistani cuisine.
• Salt Bae Restaurant (Lahore): A popular international chain known for its unique presentation of dishes and high-quality steaks.

Province Punjab is a historic province. It plays a key role in the economy of the country. There are many historical cities in this province. Its capital Lahore is referred to as the cultural heart of Pakistan.