Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s Historic Visit to Sukkur in 1930
On May 4, 1930, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the revered founder of Pakistan, visited the city of Sukkur in Sindh, leaving an indelible mark on its historical landscape. This visit, steeped in political and legal significance, is a noteworthy chapter in both Sukkur’s and Pakistan’s history. This article delves into the details of his visit, the locations associated with it, and its broader historical context.
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| May 4, 1930: Sukkur’s Pride |
The Significance of the Visit
Quaid-e-Azam arrived in Sukkur to address the legal proceedings of the Soreh Badshah case, a prominent legal matter during the British colonial era. His presence in the city was not only a testament to his legal prowess but also highlighted his growing influence as a political leader advocating for the rights of Muslims in the Indian subcontinent.
During his stay, Jinnah was hosted at the Mayor House, a significant colonial-era building originally known as Khairpur House. This residence, now known as the Islamuddin Sheikh House, served as a venue for a notable lunch hosted by prominent figures of the time, including Abdullah Haroon and Ayub Khuhro, in honor of Jinnah and Sir Shafi.
The Soreh Badshah Case and the Hur Resistance Movement
Jinnah’s visit to Sukkur was primarily linked to his involvement in the Soreh Badshah case. While details of the case remain limited in historical records, it is known that Jinnah, a distinguished barrister, took up the case but left it midway, returning to his base. His brief engagement with the case underscores the demanding nature of his legal and political commitments during this period.
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| Portrait of Sayyid Sibghatullah Shah Al-Rashidi II, Soreh Badshah, in Traditional Sindhi Attire |
The case was connected to the Sindhi spiritual leader Pir Sibghatullah Shah Rashdi, popularly known as Soreh Badshah (Brave King), who spearheaded the Hur Resistance Movement against British colonial rule from 1930 to 1943. The movement, driven by the powerful slogan “Watan ya Kafan, Azadi ya Mout” (our land or a coffin, freedom or death), encapsulated the fierce patriotism and desire for national identity among the people of Sindh. Under Soreh Badshah’s leadership, thousands of followers, including both men and women, revolted against the British Raj, launching a determined struggle to expel foreign rulers from their homeland.
The Mayor House: A Historical Landmark
The Mayor House, formerly Khairpur House, holds a rich historical legacy. Constructed in 1852 as a travelers’ bungalow on the hillock of Islamia College, it initially served as the residence for the British Resident of Khairpur State. From 1843, the British government appointed a Collector for Shikarpur District, which later transitioned to Sukkur District by 1901. The Collector, representing British authority, resided in this prestigious building.
The renaming of Khairpur House to Mayor House reflects its evolving role in the administrative and social fabric of Sukkur. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city’s colonial past and its connection to pivotal moments in Pakistan’s freedom struggle.
Jinnah’s Stay in Sukkur
Besides the Mayor House, Jinnah also stayed at the Travelers’ Bungalow, located on the hillock of Islamia College. Built in 1852, this bungalow was a prominent lodging facility for dignitaries visiting Sukkur. Jinnah’s choice of residence during his visit reflects the prominence of these colonial-era structures in facilitating important gatherings and discussions.
Legacy of the Visit
Quaid-e-Azam’s visit to Sukkur on May 4, 1930, remains a point of pride for the city’s residents. It serves as a reminder of his multifaceted role as a legal luminary and a visionary leader who laid the foundation for Pakistan. The locations associated with his visit, such as the Mayor House and the Travelers’ Bungalow, continue to evoke historical reverence.
Conclusion
The visit of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah to Sukkur in 1930 is a significant event that underscores the city’s role in the broader narrative of Pakistan’s struggle for independence. By exploring the historical context of his visit and its connection to the Hur Resistance Movement led by Soreh Badshah, we gain insight into the life and legacy of a leader whose contributions continue to inspire generations. For history enthusiasts and residents of Sukkur alike, this moment in time is a cherished part of the city’s heritage.
References
- Historical records of Sukkur District, Sindh Archives.
- Biographical accounts of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
- Local narratives and oral histories from Sukkur residents, including contributions by Imdad Hussain Shah Rohri.
- Accounts of the Hur Resistance Movement and Pir Sibghatullah Shah Rashdi’s role in Sindh’s anti-colonial struggle.
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