Unveiling the History of Rohri's Cremation Grounds: A Cultural Legacy
Introduction
Rohri, nestled on the eastern bank of the Indus River in Sindh, Pakistan, is a city steeped in history, tracing its roots to the Indus Valley Civilization. Among its cultural treasures are the cremation grounds, locally known as Masan, which serve as vital religious and social hubs for the Hindu community. This article explores the rich history, development, and cultural significance of Rohri's Masan, spotlighting landmarks like Shankar Bagh and the vibrant Gayras Mela.
Historical Roots and Relocation
Originally situated near the Indus River, close to Wasan Ram's garden and the Seventh Qasim Khani cemetery, the cremation grounds faced disruption in 1878 due to the construction of Rohri's first railway station. This development, part of the British-era railway expansion, connected Rohri to cities like Karachi and Peshawar (Rohri Junction railway station). The Syed family of Kot Mir Yaqoob Ali Shah Rizvi. generously provided a new site, now the current Masan, marking a pivotal moment in its history.
Development Through Community Efforts
By 1898, the new site, once covered with sand dunes, began transforming under the guidance of local leaders like Magistrate Maharaj Tulsidas and Dewan Metharam. They oversaw the construction of walls, cremation chambers, and rooms for ascetics, enhancing the site's functionality. Notable contributions included:
- Moolchand Thatoomal: Installed fireproof materials and iron sheets to protect against rain.
- Prabhomal Hasanand Ramnani: Built pathways and gardens for circumambulation.
- Kishanchand Ramdas Gajwani:: Designed carts for transporting the deceased.
- Parsraam Jayramdas: Added seating areas around Shankar Bagh's ancient banyan tree.
- Gurdas Maan Bolarum: Contributed water tanks and sanitary facilities.
These efforts reflect the community's commitment to preserving their cultural heritage.
Shankar Bagh: A Cultural Oasis
At the heart of the Masan lies Shankar Bagh, a garden featuring an ancient banyan tree, alongside mango, jamun, and lemon trees. Developed through collective efforts, it includes water tanks and bathing facilities for rituals, ensuring dignity in last rites. The garden's serene environment fosters reflection and community bonding, making it a cherished space.
Gayras Mela: A Vibrant Tradition
The annual Gayras Mela, held every November, transforms the Masan into a lively cultural hub. Attracting residents from Rohri and nearby Sukkur, the festival features circumambulation, electric swings, stalls, and performances, supported by free electrical arrangements from the local electrician community (List of Sindhi Hindu festivals - Wikipedia). This event underscores the grounds' role as a social and spiritual center.
Additional Facilities and Historical Context
Beyond cremation, the Masan hosts exercise areas (Kasrat Shala) for youth, rooms named after Rai Sahib Gangaram displaying leader portraits, and a hill with bathing pools by Bhai Pessomal Bhatiya. Public-funded ghats along the Amar-kas Wah (Canal), including Kondani Bai Ghat by Seth Sugnichand Darya Ram, facilitate bathing and water collection. The Naro canal, once flowing eastward, was redirected into the Sukkur Barrage in 1932, shaping the site's geographical context.
Challenges in Documentation
While rich in local lore, the Masan's history lacks extensive online documentation, relying heavily on oral accounts. Figures like Maharaj Tulsidas and Dewan Metharam are not widely recorded, highlighting the need for further research to preserve this heritage.
Conclusion
Rohri's cremation grounds are more than religious sites; they are a testament to the city's cultural resilience. From their relocation in 1878 to the vibrant Gayras Mela, the Masan embodies Sindh's Hindu heritage. Preserving these grounds ensures that future generations can connect with this rich legacy.
References
- Sayed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi. (2025). Personal communication on the history of Rohri's cremation grounds.
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