Rohri in 1870-1871: A Glimpse into the Past
Rohri, a city with a rich historical tapestry, is located on the eastern bank of the Indus River in Pakistan's Sindh province. Known as Aror in medieval times, it was a pivotal site in the early spread of Islam in South Asia, captured by Muhammad bin Qasim in 711 CE. By the 19th century, under British colonial rule, Rohri had transformed into a key administrative and commercial center. This article explores Rohri during the years 1870-1871, drawing from A.W. Hughes' Sindh Gazetteer (1874), to provide a snapshot of its vibrant life and times.
Connectivity and Infrastructure
In 1870-1871, Rohri was well-connected by road to nearby towns such as Mirpur, Kandhra, and Sanghar. The city was strategically located on the main royal road from Hyderabad to Multan, which passed through it, facilitating trade and travel. This strategic position made Rohri a vital hub for commerce and administration in the region, connecting southern and northern parts of British India.
Government Buildings and Administration
Rohri boasted several key government buildings that underscored its administrative importance. These included the Mukhtiarkar's court, responsible for local governance and revenue collection, and the Panchayat house, where municipal commissioners held their meetings. The Rohri Municipality was established in 1855, indicating a structured local government. Other notable buildings included a dispensary for medical services, a police station, a spacious and well-built Dak Bungalow for travelers, government schools, a post office, and a dock, all contributing to the city's status as a regional center.
The city's security was maintained by a police force of 31 personnel, comprising 23 foot constables from the rural and district police, along with mounted police on horses and camels. The area known as Cooper Gunj was named after Gilbert Cooper, an enthusiastic Deputy Collector who spearheaded numerous development projects in the Rohri sub-division.
Population Demographics
According to the 1872 census, Rohri had a population of approximately 8,580 residents. Of these, 4,766 were Hindus, predominantly from the Vaanya (Bania) caste, who were engaged in trade, banking, and money lending. The remaining 3,813 were Muslims, belonging to various tribes such as Qazi, Syed, Bhutta, Kori, Patoli, Mahana, Khati, Memon, Sheikh, and Shikari, reflecting the city's diverse social fabric.
| Community | Population | Primary Occupations |
|---|---|---|
| Hindus (Vaanya/Bania) | 4,766 | Trade, Banking, Money Lending |
| Muslims (Various Tribes) | 3,813 | Various, including Landownership |
Economic Activities
Rohri's economy in the late 19th century was diverse and vibrant. The city traded in a variety of goods, including grains, oil, ghee, salt, meat, lime, and fruits. Additionally, Rohri was known for its manufacturing industries. Notably, the city produced Tussar silk cloth, gold and silver jewelry such as bangles, and paper of various qualities. These industries not only catered to local needs but also contributed to trade with other regions via the royal road connecting Hyderabad and Multan.
Prominent Personalities
Among the notable figures in Rohri were the Syeds, who had owned lands in the district for centuries. Prominent Syeds included Noor Hussain Shah, Mir Sadiq Ali Shah (the mediator), Mian Jan Allah Shah, Mian Murad Ali Shah, Mian Qalandar Bakhsh Shah, Mian Hamza Ali Shah, Mian Khair Muhammad Shah, among others. In the Hindu community, Diwan Lal Das and Seth Sabhag Chand were significant personalities, likely involved in trade and commerce.
Conclusion
Rohri in 1870-1871 was a thriving city under British rule, with a well-developed infrastructure, a diverse and economically active population, and a significant role in the region's administrative and commercial landscape. The detailed accounts from A.W. Hughes' Sindh Gazetteer provide a valuable glimpse into the city's historical importance in Sindh.
References
- Hughes, A.W. (1874). A Gazetteer of the Province of Sindh. London: G. Bell and Sons.
- Sayed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi. (2025). Personal communication
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