Rattu to Shounter

Beginning at Thalichi Bridge on the Astore Road, the Shounter Road, also known as Rattu Road, unfolds like a living corridor of natural beauty and cultural memory. It meanders beneath the towering presence of Nanga Parbat, turning toward Rattu alongside a river-fed valley defined by the confluence of the Kalapani and Mir Malik streams, collectively referred to as the Rattu River. This winding journey offers a stunning portrait of the Diamer-Astore District, where terraced fields, wooden homes, stone walls, cascading streams, and wildflower meadows reflect the resilience and rhythm of local life.

The route traces an ancient seasonal path that once connected Astore to Azad Kashmir, historically known as the Shounter Road. With plans underway for the Shounter Tunnel, this trail may soon evolve into a transformative highway linking Gilgit-Baltistan with Independent Kashmir. This proposed development holds immense promise, not only as a strategic passage but also as a cultural and economic revival between two regions long bound by geography and heritage. 

Tourists traversing this road are constantly drawn to the trout-filled river that runs beside them, inviting moments of pause, reflection, and immersion in a landscape that feels untouched and eternal. In this tranquil yet powerful setting, the past and future of regional connectivity meet, offering both a breathtaking journey and a glimpse into a reawakening frontier

ZaheerChaudhry

Eminabad

Eminabad: A Tapestry of Heritage, History, and Cultural Resilience
Photo courtesy Zaheer Chaudhry

Abstract: Eminabad, a time-honored town situated 15 kilometers south of Gujranwala District in Punjab, Pakistan, boasts a rich historical tapestry woven with religious diversity, architectural marvels, and cultural traditions. This research article delves into the multifaceted identity of Eminabad, exploring its historical significance, architectural treasures, and the vibrant tapestry of communal life that once thrived within its confines.

Introduction: Eminabad stands as a testament to the cultural and historical legacy of Pakistan, nestled along the Grand Trunk Road in Punjab. This article aims to unravel the layers of Eminabad's history, shedding light on its architectural treasures, religious landmarks, and the cultural mosaic that defines its identity.

Historical Background: Before the partition, Eminabad was a melting pot of religious diversity, with Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs coexisting harmoniously. The mass migration that accompanied the birth of Pakistan led to the departure of Hindu and Sikh communities to India, leaving behind their shrines and traces of a shared past.

Architectural Marvels:  Eminabad is adorned with historical buildings that stand as silent witnesses to bygone eras. Kali Kothi, a structure built by Kartar Nath Manchandain in 1932, showcases the architectural splendor of the town. Among these treasures, the Dewan Hawali emerges as the most striking piece of historical architecture, reflecting the craftsmanship of its time.

Religious Landmarks: The town is home to three historical shrines, Shive Mandars, and Gurdwara Nanak Sahib, emphasizing the once vibrant tapestry of religious diversity. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhi, is said to have stayed at Eminabad, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural and religious landscape. The Gurdwara built over this significant site is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sikh history.

Cultural Traditions: Eminabad's cultural vibrancy is manifested in its love for kite flying, a tradition associated with the Basant festival that was once an integral part of every Eid celebration. The ban on kite flying by the Pakistani government, driven by valid reasons, has altered the cultural landscape but has not dampened the spirit of the people.

Contemporary Scenario: The research also sheds light on the present-day scenario, acknowledging the efforts of the Pakistani government in preserving cultural heritage. The construction of a new Gurdwara building at the cost of PKR 20 million reflects the commitment to safeguarding historical landmarks, with the Sikh community actively participating in its maintenance.

Acknowledgments: The research expresses gratitude to the local community members who generously shared their time and insights. Special thanks are extended to Sayed Arif Ali, Hafiz Ali, the last natives of Dewan Haweli, and Aqib, the neighbor of Kali Kothi, for their kindness and cooperation during the research.

Conclusion: Eminabad stands as more than a geographical location; it is a living testament to the confluence of diverse cultures, religions, and traditions. Through this research, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of Eminabad's historical significance, ensuring that its heritage continues to resonate through the corridors of time. 

 

  

  

 

 

 

The Legends of Peshawar Kapoor's Haveli

Preserving History: Kapoor Haveli's Journey from Home to Heritage

In the heart of Peshawar, Pakistan, stands a silent witness to the golden era of Indian cinema and the illustrious Kapoor family – the Kapoor Haveli. This residential building, constructed between 1918 and 1922 by Dewan Basheswarnath Kapoor, is more than just brick and mortar; it is a repository of memories, a living testament to the Kapoor family's legacy in the world of show business.

The Kapoors, proud Punjabi Hindus, called this haveli home, and it was within these walls that the first seeds of cinematic stardom were sown. Prithviraj Kapoor, the patriarch, paved the way for the family's entry into the film industry in 1928. The likes of Trilok Kapoor, Prithviraj's younger brother, and the legendary Raj Kapoor, were born within the confines of this historical abode.

However, the echoes of history reverberate with the partition of India in 1947. As with many other Hindu families, the Kapoors left their city and their ancestral home. The haveli, once bustling with the laughter and footsteps of a thriving family, fell into the hands of new owners through an auction in 1968.

Fast forward to the present day, and Kapoor Haveli is in the spotlight once again. IMGC Global Entertainment, in collaboration with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, is undertaking the noble task of transforming this historic residence into a museum. The move not only pays homage to the Kapoor family's contributions to the world of entertainment but also serves as a testament to the cultural ties that transcend borders.

The journey to preserve Kapoor Haveli, however, is not without its challenges. Valued at Rs 15 million in 2021, the deputy commissioner of Peshawar has initiated plans to convert the building into a museum, issuing notices to the current owner, Gul Rehman Mohmmad, who seeks Rs 2 billion in return.

The haveli's history is etched in every brick and wooden slab. According to the inscription at the entrance, its construction commenced in 1918, a period that witnessed the tail end of British India. Raj Kapoor, one of Indian cinema's most iconic figures, took his first breaths within these hallowed walls in 1924, while two younger siblings, born in 1931, also began their journey here.

Over the years, the Kapoor Haveli faced the test of time, including an earthquake that led to the demolition of its top three stories two decades ago. Today, surrounded by commercial structures that pose a threat to its structural integrity, the haveli stands as a symbol of resilience against the forces of change.

In 1990, Raj Kapoor's younger brother, Shashi Kapoor, along with his sons Randhir Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor, made a poignant visit to Peshawar. Their pilgrimage to the family home, marked by taking soil from the compound as a memento, showcased a poignant connection to their roots.

As the tale of Kapoor Haveli unfolds, it becomes more than a story of a historic building; it becomes a narrative of shared heritage, cultural ties, and the collective responsibility to preserve the treasures that bind us to our past. The journey from a family home to a potential museum is a step towards ensuring that the Kapoor legacy lives on for generations to come.

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