Paper-Making Factories in Rohri: History and Significance

Rohri, a historic city in Sindh, Pakistan, was home to four paper-making factories established in 1839. These factories produced paper from hemp fiber, playing a significant role in the region's economy and craftsmanship. This article explores the history, processes, and cultural importance of these factories.

The Paper-Making Process Using Hemp Fiber

The process of making paper from hemp fiber in Rohri’s factories took 18 to 20 days. Producing paper from one maund (approximately 37.3 kg) of hemp fiber cost 20 rupees, with the factory owner earning a profit of 25 rupees. The hemp fiber ropes were sourced from Hyderabad and supplied to Rohri by a contractor named Seth Moto, a resident of Naushahro. Backed by the Talpur rulers of Khairpur, Moto was exempt from taxes, allowing him to supply hemp ropes to Rohri, Khairpur, and Shikarpur markets.

Ownership and Labor Conditions

The factories were owned by an individual known as Jhoora. Workers in these factories were paid a daily wage of two annas, a modest amount for the time. Despite the low wages, these factories were vital to the local economies of Rohri, Khairpur, and Shikarpur, as the hemp-based paper was widely sold in these areas.

Characteristics of Hemp Paper

Paper made from hemp fiber was slightly coarse and had a brownish hue. Even today, hemp fiber is used in Europe to produce cigarette paper, currency notes, stamp paper, and other high-value papers. However, paper made from wood pulp is five times cheaper than hemp paper, and due to hemp’s psychoactive properties, many countries have banned its use in paper production. Some old hemp paper samples, which are slightly rigid and brownish, still exist as a testament to this craft.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The paper-making factories in Rohri were not just economic ventures but also part of Sindh’s cultural heritage during the Talpur era. These factories highlight the region’s craftsmanship and technological advancements at the time. The surviving samples of hemp paper reflect the quality and skill of that era’s artisans.

emphasizes the time period (19th century), material (hemp), and cultural context (Sindh’s heritage), aligning with the article’s focus on history and craftsmanship

The Birth of Rohri’s Paper Industry: Hemp Ropes to Paper Sheets (1839)

Conclusion

The paper-making factories established in Rohri in 1839 are an important chapter in Sindh’s industrial and cultural history. The use of hemp fiber for paper production not only boosted the local economy but also showcased the region’s craftsmanship and technological progress. Although the use of hemp paper has declined globally, this historical legacy reminds us of Sindh’s rich past.

References and Recommended Books

• History of Sindh: Annals of the Talpur Dynasty - A detailed account of Sindh’s history during the Talpur era.
• Traditional Crafts of South Asia - A comprehensive study of traditional crafts in South Asia.
• Paper-Making Techniques in the Pre-Modern World - Insights into paper-making techniques of the past.

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