A Comprehensive History of Sukkur Municipal Corporation and Rohri Municipal Committee (1856–2025)

 A Comprehensive History of Sukkur Municipal Corporation and Rohri Municipal Committee (1856–2025)

The local governance systems of Sukkur and Rohri, two historically significant cities in Pakistan’s Sindh province, have evolved over nearly two centuries, shaped by colonial rule, post-independence reforms, and modern administrative developments. This article traces the history of the Sukkur Municipal Corporation (SMC) and the Rohri Municipal Committee from their origins in 1856 to the present day, incorporating key milestones, administrative changes, and their roles in civic life. Drawing on verified historical records and contemporary sources, this narrative provides a detailed account of their journey.

Early Governance in Sukkur (1856–1948)

Municipal Offices

Establishment of the Sukkur Municipal Committee

The Sukkur Municipal Committee was established in 1856 under British colonial rule, a period when Sukkur’s population was approximately 12,000. Initially, the committee comprised sixteen non-elected officials, all local residents, presided over by an unelected Collector. This centralized structure was typical of colonial governance, prioritizing administrative control over local representation.

Gradual Autonomy

By 1885, the committee saw its first significant reform: citizens gained the right to elect representatives, though the Collector retained the presidency. A vice-president, also elected by the citizens, was introduced, marking a cautious step toward local participation. In 1911, the committee achieved a milestone when it was granted the authority to elect its own president. Diwan Bhoj Singh, who later became the first Speaker of the Sindh Assembly in 1937, was elected as the inaugural president, reflecting Sukkur’s growing political significance.

Post-Independence Challenges

Following Pakistan’s independence in 1947, the Sukkur Municipal Committee faced turmoil. In 1948, it was superseded by the government due to allegations of maladministration and financial instability. An administrator was appointed to oversee operations, signaling a temporary loss of local autonomy as the new nation grappled with governance transitions.

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Mid-Century Growth and Restructuring (1961–1980)

Recognition as a First-Class Municipality

By 1961, the Sukkur Municipal Committee was designated a first-class municipal entity, reflecting its expanded administrative capacity. Covering an area of three and a half square miles with a population of 103,154 (per the 1961 census), the committee was adapting to the city’s urban growth, driven by its strategic location along the Indus River and the Sukkur Barrage.

Decentralization and Union Committees

In 1980, the Government of Sindh restructured the committee into ten Union Committees, each led by an elected chairman. The Municipal Committee’s chairman served as the executive head, supervised by the Commissioner of Khairpur Division. This decentralization aimed to improve local governance efficiency as Sukkur’s population and geographic scope expanded to seven and a half square miles.

Elevation to Municipal Corporation

Later in 1980, the Sukkur Municipal Committee was upgraded to the Sukkur Municipal Corporation (SMC), a testament to the city’s burgeoning importance. The SMC boasted thirty-four elected representatives, including reserved seats for women and labor classes, promoting inclusivity. Mr. Islamuddin Shaikh was elected as the first mayor, ushering in a new era of municipal governance.

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Modern Administration of Sukkur Municipal Corporation (1992–2025)

Administrative Evolution

Contrary to earlier assumptions that no elections occurred after 1992, Pakistan’s local government system has seen periodic elections interspersed with appointed administrations. Below is a timeline of SMC leadership since 1992:

Period	Administration	Details
2001–2005	Mayor: Nasir Hussain Shah	Elected under Local Government Ordinance 2001, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).
2005–2010	Mayor: Nasir Hussain Shah	Re-elected, continuing PPP dominance.
2010–2016	Commissioner System	Managed by provincial appointees during a hiatus in local elections.
2016–2020	Mayor: Arsalan Shaikh	Elected in 2016, PPP, noted as Pakistan’s youngest mayor at the time.
2020–2023	Administrator System	Provincial government appointees oversaw operations.
2023–Present	Mayor: Arsalan Sheikh	Elected in 2023, currently leads 32 Union Councils.

As of 2025, Barrister Arsalan Islam Sheikh remains the mayor, having assumed office on June 20, 2023. His tenure focuses on improving water supply, sanitation, and infrastructure, addressing the needs of Sukkur’s 32 Union Councils.

Services Provided

Historically, the SMC managed an array of civic services, including seven hospitals (e.g., a 30-bed facility, a maternity home, and a physiotherapy center) and four waterworks supplying six million gallons daily. Today, it continues to oversee healthcare, water supply, waste management, and public infrastructure, though challenges like Sukkur Barrage maintenance persist, requiring collaboration with district authorities.

Rohri Municipal Committee: Governance and History

Administrative Structure

Rohri, situated across the Indus from Sukkur, operates under a Municipal Committee rather than a corporation, reflecting its smaller scale. As of 2025, Chairman Mir Yaqoob Ali Shah leads the committee, a position he has held since 2023. With a population of approximately 50,649, the committee manages sanitation, water supply, and local infrastructure, coordinated with the Sukkur District administration.

Historical Context

Rohri’s history is tied to the ancient city of Aror, a Sauvira Kingdom capital and trade hub captured by Muhammad bin Qasim in 711 CE. An earthquake in 962 CE shifted the Indus River, leading to Aror’s decline and Rohri’s rise 10 kilometers west. By the 12th century, Rohri thrived as a port city, leveraging its agricultural trade.

• Financial Crises: Sukkur Municipality faced severe setbacks, including:
• 1897 Plague: Economic paralysis and revenue collapse.
• 1903 Fire: Destruction of municipal offices and historical records.
• 1930s Riots: Civil unrest disrupting tax collection and services.
• Post-2007 Record Loss: Archives documenting colonial-era reforms (e.g., renaming Lloyd Barrage to Sukkur Barrage) were destroyed during political riots 15.

Landmarks and Legacy

Rohri’s colonial-era landmarks include the Lansdowne Bridge (1889) and Rohri Junction Railway Station, underscoring its strategic role. Cultural sites like the Sateen Jo Aastan shrine further enrich its heritage, drawing visitors and preserving its historical narrative.

Conclusion

From the Sukkur Municipal Committee’s founding in 1856 to its transformation into a Municipal Corporation, and from Rohri’s ancient roots to its modern governance, these cities exemplify resilience and adaptation. Mayor Arsalan Sheikh’s leadership in Sukkur and Chairman Mir Yaqoob Ali Shah’s stewardship in Rohri highlight ongoing efforts to balance historical legacies with contemporary needs. This history illuminates the broader evolution of local governance in Sindh, offering insights into its impact on community development.

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References

• Book Reference: Sindh: A Historical Perspective by Dr. Hamida Khuhro (Oxford University Press, 1999) – Provides context on colonial and post-independence governance in Sindh.
• Book Reference: Urban Development in Pakistan by A.R. Kemal (Vanguard Books, 2003) – Discusses municipal evolution in cities like Sukkur.

This article consolidates the rich histories of Sukkur and Rohri, verified by credible sources, into a cohesive narrative spanning 1856 to 2025.

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

#MunicipalCorporation #Rohri #Sukkur #LocalGovernment

Dr. Rochal Das: The Sufi Saint and Poet of Rohri

Introduction

Some Moments With the Master by Dr. R.M. Hari

Dr. Rochal Das, also revered as Sai Rochaldas Sahib, was a distinguished Sufi saint, poet, and charitable doctor from Rohri, Sindh. Born on January 6, 1879 or 1880, he dedicated his life to serving humanity through medical practice and spiritual guidance. His unique blend of professional excellence and mystical devotion made him a beloved figure in Sindhi history. This article explores his life, contributions, and enduring legacy, highlighting his impact as a healer and spiritual luminary.

Early Life and Family Background

Dr. Rochal Das was born in the Brahmanki (Brahman) Mohalla of Rohri, in a street later named Diwan Sajan Singh Street after his father. His father, Diwan Sajan Singh Mansharamani, served as a head clerk in the engineering department, known for his unwavering honesty and disinterest in material wealth. Despite financial constraints, Sajan Singh maintained a peaceful household, supported by his wife, a virtuous woman from a prominent landowner family in Rohri. She managed the household with frugality, teaching her children to embrace simplicity and contentment, often saying, “There is nothing wrong with poverty; he who is hungry remains happy” (Some Moments With the Master).

The family faced significant challenges when Sajan Singh passed away suddenly in his youth, leaving no savings. His eldest son, Metharam, stepped into his father’s role, securing a position in the Sukkur Municipality through the support of his father’s officer. Metharam earned a reputation for integrity, serving as Assistant Chief Officer and occasionally Acting Chief Officer. He also led the Rohri Panchayat and contributed to community projects, such as enclosing the local cremation ground with a boundary wall and building facilities for the cremator and fakirs.

The second son, Tarachand, became a successful contractor, amassing wealth and acquiring properties in their locality, which led to the naming of Diwan Sajan Singh Street. Known for his generosity, Tarachand supported his younger brother, Dr. Rochal Das, in establishing a charitable hospital in Gujwani Mohalla. Tragically, like his father, Tarachand passed away in his youth.

Family Contributions Table

The following table summarizes the roles and contributions of Diwan Sajan Singh and his sons, highlighting their impact on Rohri:

Family Member	Role	Contributions
Diwan Sajan Singh	Head Clerk, Engineering Department	Known for honesty, raised family with simplicity
Metharam	Sukkur Municipality Officer, Panchayat Head	Upheld family’s integrity, developed cremation ground
Tarachand	Contractor	Supported charitable hospital, acquired properties
Dr. Rochal Das	Doctor, Sufi Saint, Poet	Ran charitable hospital, authored spiritual poetry

Diwan Metharam, Elder Brother of Dr. Rochal Das

Education and Medical Career

In 1901, Dr. Rochal Das enrolled at Hyderabad Medical School, where he not only pursued medical studies but also deepened his spiritual inclinations through his association with Qutub Shah Jahaniya Poto, a revered Sufi figure who treated him like a son. After completing his education, he served briefly as a medical officer at Hyderabad Jail, a common role for doctors at the time, who often doubled as jail superintendents.

In 1904, he was posted to Aden, Yemen, where he worked in a hospital on the seashore during severe epidemics of plague, cholera, and smallpox. His compassionate care earned him the admiration of the local Arab community and the hospital staff, including English nurses. Offered a prestigious medal for his service, he humbly declined, emphasizing selfless devotion over recognition. He reportedly said, “If you have to deal with the divine, do not look for faults; if you look for faults, you will not enjoy the pleasure of the unseen.”

Upon returning to Rohri, Dr. Rochal Das left government service and established a charitable hospital in Gujwani Mohalla, near Chabotra on Sajan Singh Street. Having trained under Dr. Holland in Shikarpur, where he learned eye treatment techniques for free, he offered free eye surgeries and medical care to thousands, using both allopathic and homeopathic methods. His hospital became a beacon of hope, serving the underprivileged without charge (Discover Rohri).

Spiritual Journey and Influences

Dr. Rochal Das’s spiritual journey began in childhood, shaped by his father’s devotion. Sajan Singh frequently took him to Darya Badshah for meditation and to the ashram of Sai Vasanram Sahib (also known as Wasan Shah) for spiritual gatherings. These experiences instilled in him a deep commitment to asceticism, humility, and service. At the age of eight or nine, he spent nights at Wasan Shah’s ashram, listening to devotional songs and imbibing the saint’s teachings of simplicity and devotion to God (Some Moments With the Master).

Wasan Shah, who had a profound influence on Rochal Das, arranged his engagement to a woman from the respected Pamanani Bajaj family in 1901. Rochal Das often accompanied Wasan Shah to meet other spiritual leaders, such as Paro Shah, further enriching his mystical perspective. During his time in Hyderabad, his bond with Qutub Shah deepened his spiritual practice, with Qutub Shah affectionately calling him his child.

Dr. Rochal Das embraced Sufi principles, remaining absorbed in divine contemplation and practicing rigorous spiritual disciplines. He believed in staying away from material comforts and accepting hardships, a lesson he learned from Wasan Shah’s example of service and austerity.

Contributions as a Sufi Saint and Poet

As a Sufi saint, Dr. Rochal Das organized vibrant Sufi gatherings in Rohri, blending his medical service with spiritual devotion. These gatherings fostered a sense of community and spiritual upliftment, reflecting his belief in the unity of service and mysticism. He expressed his spiritual insights through poetry, authoring works such as Barani Boli (Children’s Language), Ath aur Or (Here and Beyond), and Kay Saaton Sajan San (Some Moments with the Beloved). These books, published posthumously by his son Dr. Hariram, showcase his mastery of the Sindhi language and his ability to convey profound mystical concepts in accessible terms.

Limited information is available about the content of his poetry, but it is believed to reflect themes of divine love, humility, and spiritual awakening, common in Sufi literature. His saying, “When the tongue is silent, the journey to the beloved begins,” underscores his emphasis on inner devotion over outward recognition.

Family and Legacy

Dr. Rochal Das married into the Pamanani Bajaj family in 1901, a union arranged by Wasan Shah, reflecting the saint’s affection for him. His son, Dr. Hariram, played a crucial role in preserving his father’s legacy. After the partition of India in 1947, Dr. Hariram relocated to Shanti Nagar, Kalyan Camp 3, in India, where he continued practicing medicine and published his father’s literary works.

Dr. Rochal Das passed away on December 10, 1957, in India, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service, spiritual wisdom, and literary contributions. His charitable hospital, later managed by Dr. Ghaneshyamdas, his brother-in-law and classmate, continued to serve the community. His life remains a testament to the power of integrating professional dedication with spiritual pursuit.

Conclusion

Dr. Rochal Das, or Sai Rochaldas Sahib, stands as a revered figure in the history of Rohri and Sindh. His charitable medical practice, spiritual gatherings, and poetic works reflect a life dedicated to serving humanity and seeking divine truth. His influence continues through his family’s contributions and the enduring inspiration of his teachings. As a Sufi saint and poet, he bridged the material and spiritual worlds, leaving a legacy that resonates with those who value compassion and mysticism.

References

1. Rizvi, I. H. S. (2025). Information provided by Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi via a Facebook post about Dr. Rochal Das and his family (specific post not publicly accessible).

2. Hari, R.M. (Author). "Some Moments With the Master: Spiritual Dialogues With The Sufi Saint Dr. Rochaldas." Available at: Lehmanns.de and Archive.org.

3. Discover Rohri - The Ancient City of Sindh. Retrieved from www.rohri.net.

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi
© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

#SufiSaint, #SindhiPoetry, #Rohri, #DrRochalDas

Sukkur District Local Board: History, Evolution & Key Figures | Colonial Sindh Administration

Introduction to the Sukkur District Local Board

The Sukkur District Local Board has been a cornerstone of local governance in Sindh, Pakistan, since its inception during the British colonial period. Established to manage local funds and public services in rural areas, the board has evolved significantly over time. This article delves into its history, structure, and key milestones, offering a comprehensive look at its role in shaping Sukkur’s development.

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Historical Background: Roots in Colonial Governance

Before 1863, Sindh had no dedicated fund for public works under the Talpur rulers, who relied on trade taxes that were later abolished by the British after their annexation of Sindh in 1843. In 1863, the British government introduced local funds across the Bombay Presidency, including Sindh. These funds, derived from taxes on trade, livestock, and other sources, were allocated for rural education, road construction, well digging, and public infrastructure.

Initially informal, this system was legalized in 1865 under the Bombay Act. Its primary goal was to give taxpayers a say in fund utilization, though early records indicate limited local influence, with decisions largely controlled by district collectors. In 1882, Lord Ripon’s local self-government reforms paved the way for the Bombay Act of 1884, formalizing the structure of local boards, including the Sukkur District Local Board.

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Structure and Composition

The Sukkur District Local Board originally comprised 20 to 30 members, split between elected and appointed representatives:

• Elected Members: Represented taluka local boards, municipalities, and village headmen or landowners.

• Appointed Members: Nominated by the Sindh Commissioner, including the District Collector, Assistant Collectors, and Executive Engineers.

Officials like the Educational Inspector and Civil Surgeon could attend meetings without voting rights. By 1919, the board gained full electoral rights, with 32 members 17 Muslims, 7 Hindus, and 8 government appointees. In 1938, appointed positions were eliminated, leaving 24 elected members.

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Key Milestones in the Board’s Journey

Early Development

• 1883: The Shikarpur District headquarters shifted to Sukkur due to its healthier climate, boosting the region’s prominence.

• 1901: Shikarpur District split into Larkana and Sukkur, with J.L. Rieu as Sukkur’s first Collector.

Infrastructure and Leadership

• 1933: Qaiser Khan Bozdar became president, overseeing projects like an English school and a women’s center.

• 1938: The current Local Board building, including Qaiser Hall, was constructed for 50,000 rupees.

• 1939: Rasul Bakhsh Akhund managed the School Board, enhancing rural education.

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Prominent Figures

Sardar Qaiser Khan with Governor Sir Lancelot Graham & Wife: Historic Colonial-Era Meeting in Sindh

Qaiser Khan Bozdar

Born in 1890, Bozdar led the board from 1933, driving infrastructure growth. A Bombay Council and Sindh Assembly member, he passed away in 1952.

Rasul Bakhsh Akhund

Born in 1897 in Rohri, Akhund served as the School Board’s Administrative Officer, contributing to education and Sindhi literature.

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Challenges and Legacy

The board faced challenges like limited early autonomy and the loss of records after Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, including Sir Shah Nawaz Bhutto’s resolution to rename Lloyd Barrage to Sukkur Barrage. Despite this, its contributions to education and infrastructure endure. Recent elections signal a new chapter, with potential leadership from Syed Kamil Hyder Shah.

Historical Development of Sukkur District Local Board

Pre-1863: Absence of Local Funds

Before British reforms, Sindh had no dedicated local fund for public works. Taxes imposed by the Talpur Mirs were abolished after the 1843 annexation.

The 1863 Local Fund System

• Established Local Funds Departments across Bombay Presidency districts

Revenue sources:

• Cesses, tolls, and ferry receipts
• Animal tax and local levies

Fund allocation:

• ⅓ for rural education
• ⅔ for roads, wells, and public infrastructure

Formalized under law in 1865

Bombay Act of 1884

• Implemented Lord Ripon's local self-governance reforms
• District Local Boards practically established in 1882
• Legally codified as Bombay Local Boards Act (1884)

Structure of Sukkur District Local Board

• Membership: 20–30 members
• Composition:

Type         Percentage                         Roles

Elected             50%                     Village/town representatives

Nominated         50%                         British officials (Collector, Engineers)

• Non-voting health officers participated in meetings

Key Historical Milestones

Sukkur as District HQ (1883)

• Shifted from Shikarpur due to unhealthy climate
• Development under British officers:
• Alfred Mayo (1884-1897): Developed Sukkur port, roads, and plantations
• J.L. Reeve: First Collector after district formation (1901)

Alfred Mayo (1884-1897)

J.L. Reeve: First Collector of Sukkur District (1901) | British Colonial Administration

Commissioner Erikson: Ordered Sukkur as District HQ (1883) | Colonial Sindh

Evolution of Local Board

• 1919: Granted elected status (17 Muslim, 7 Hindu, 8 British members)
• 1938: Abolished nominated members → Fully elected 24-member board

Historic Board Building

Sukkur Local Board HQ 1938: Colonial-Era District Administration Center

Historic Plaques: Diwan Hirdasmal & Pir Rasul Bakhsh Wings (1938) - Sukkur Local Board

Sukkur Local Board Headquarters: 1938 Colonial-Era Administrative Building

• Constructed in 1938 (Cost: ₹50,000)
• Key sections:

1. Qaisar Hall (named after President Qaiser Khan)
2. Diwan Hirdasmal Wing
3. Pir Rasul Bakhsh Shah Wing

Prominent Figures

Khan Bahadur Qaiser Khan (President: 1933-1938+)

Sardar Qaiser Khan Bozdar: Sukkur Local Board President & Khan Bahadur Title Holder

"Upgraded rural education and healthcare infrastructure during his tenure"

Legacy:

• Built English schools and dispensaries
• Donated land for Mirpur Mathelo school
• Awarded Khan Bahadur title (1930)

Akhund Rasul Bakhsh (Education Officer)

Akhund Rasul Bakhsh: Sukkur Local Board's Education Reformer & Sindhi Literary Figure

• 
  Authored 10+ Sindhi books including:
• Arkan-e-Islam (Islamic pillars)
• Muslim Women’s Bravery
• Geography textbooks

Modern Era & Challenges

• Record loss:
• Destroyed in 2007 post-Benazir Bhutto riots
• Damaged by poor storage (rain/termites)
• Recent elections:
• Current President: Syed Kamil Hyder Shah
• Predecessor: Sardar Taqi Khan Daryajo

Conclusion

The Sukkur District Local Board pioneered local self-governance in colonial Sindh, driving education and infrastructure development. Landmark Qaisar Hall stands testament to this legacy, while modern reforms continue its mission of decentralized administration.

References

BAB-E-PAKISTAN FOUNDATION, “1940–1947,” for context on colonial governance and Bombay Presidency reforms.

Punjab Assembly, “West Pakistan Second Legislator (post),” for details on Qaiser Khan Bozdar’s titles and contributions.

User-provided data, cross-verified for historical accuracy with colonial records and Sindh’s administrative history.

Sindhi and Urdu Book References

The following books provide valuable insights into Sindh’s history, governance, and literature, relevant to the Sukkur District Local Board:

سنڌ جي تاريخ (History of Sindh) by Maulvi Noor Muhammad Nizamani, Abdul Ghani Abdullah, and Muhammad Siddique Musafir. This book offers a comprehensive overview of Sindh’s historical governance structures.

سنڌوءَ جي ساڃاهه (Knowledge of Sindh) by G.M. Syed. It explores Sindh’s cultural and administrative history, including local governance.

فتح نامه سنڌ عرف چچ نامه (Chach Nama) translated by Mukhdoom Amir Ahmed and Dr. Nabi Bakhsh. This historical text details Sindh’s early governance and is a key reference for colonial transitions.

سنڌي گرامر (Sindhi Grammar) by Rasul Bakhsh Akhund. Written by a key figure in the Sukkur District Local Board, this book provides linguistic context for administrative records.

اردو سنڌي بول چال (Urdu Sindhi Bol Chaal) by Ali Mohammad Baloch. A practical guide for Urdu-Sindhi communication, useful for understanding bilingual governance in Sindh.

Vado Sindhi Vyakaran (Comprehensive Sindhi Grammar) by Bherumal Meharchand (1925). A standard work on Sindhi grammar, relevant for historical administrative documentation.

Sindhi Bolia ji Tarikh (History of Sindhi Language) by Bherumal Meharchand (1941). This book traces the evolution of Sindhi, providing context for local board records.

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

#SukkurHistory #LocalGovernance #SindhHeritage #SukkurDistrict #ColonialSindh #PakistanHistory #LocalBoard #SukkurDevelopment #BritishRule#SindhCulture

Syed Qalandar Bakhsh Shah: The Beloved Chhuttal Shah of Rohri

Introduction to Chhuttal Shah

Portrait of the late Syed Qalandar Bakhsh Shah, known as Chhuttal Shah,

Syed Qalandar Bakhsh Shah Rizvi, fondly known as Chhuttal Shah, was a revered figure in Rohri, Sindh, cherished for his simplicity, devotion, and deep connection with the community. Belonging to the prominent Rizvi Sadat family of the Nasrani Phari, he was a beacon of humility and spirituality. His life, marked by minimalism and kindness, left an indelible mark on the people of Rohri, who still remember him with great respect.

Early Life and Appearance

Chhuttal Shah was known for his distinctive appearance: a radiant smile, white attire, and wooden sandals. His tall, robust figure and fair complexion made him stand out, yet his demeanor was one of quiet introspection. Often immersed in his thoughts, he spoke little but carried an aura of serenity. Every evening, he would take a metal pot to fetch milk from the local dairy, a routine that became a familiar sight in Rohri.

Devotion and Community Engagement

Chhuttal Shah was deeply involved in the religious and cultural life of Rohri. During Muharram, he participated in mourning processions, walking alongside children in the taziya ceremonies, embodying his devotion to the Ahl al-Bayt. His presence in these events was a source of inspiration, and his respectful interactions earned him the admiration of all. Children affectionately called him "Cinema," to which he would playfully respond, "Cinema is mine," reflecting his lighthearted engagement with the youth.

Family Legacy and Landholdings

The Rizvi Sadat family of Nasrani Phari, to which Chhuttal Shah belonged, was one of the largest landholding families in Rohri. They owned 64,000 acres in Syedpur, Pano Aqil, until the land was confiscated by Ayub Khan’s government in 1964. Additionally, their properties in Rohri included the famous Gangoti Football Ground. (گانگوٽي) In 1888, due to complaints about neglect and overgrowth, the British administration issued notices to the family. Upon receiving no response, the land was transferred to the Rohri Municipality.

Genealogy of Chhuttal Shah

Syed Qalandar Bakhsh Shah’s lineage traces back through a distinguished line of Rizvi Sadat:

• Syed Qalandar Bakhsh Shah (Chhuttal Shah)
• Syed Ghulam Jafar Shah
• Syed Ishaq Ali Shah
• Syed Qalandar Bakhsh Shah (elder)
• Syed Noor Hussain Shah (d. January 20, 1865)
• … (continuing to Syed Sadruddin Rizvi)

Syed Noor Hussain Shah, a key ancestor, was a staunch opponent of British rule, refusing to attend ceremonies hosted by Charles Napier in Hyderabad and Sukkur in 1844. After his passing, the leadership of the Nasrani Phari passed to his son-in-law, Syed Ghulam Shah Murtaza.

Legacy and Lasting Impact

Though Chhuttal Shah passed away approximately 50 years ago, his memory remains alive in Rohri. His unmarried life, marked by simplicity and spiritual devotion, made him a unique figure. The respect he commanded from every individual in the city speaks to his character and influence. Even today, those who knew him recall his virtues with fondness, ensuring his legacy endures in the hearts of Rohri’s residents.

Conclusion

Syed Qalandar Bakhsh Shah, or Chhuttal Shah, was more than a local figure; he was a symbol of humility, devotion, and community spirit in Rohri. His life serves as a reminder of the power of simplicity and kindness in leaving a lasting legacy. The stories of his evening walks, his participation in Muharram, and his playful interactions with children continue to inspire the people of Sindh.

References

Information compiled from local accounts and historical records of Rohri’s Rizvi Sadat family, including contributions from Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi, Rohri, and Syed Athar Abbas (Sajid Shah). No direct sources were quoted to ensure originality.

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

#ChhuttalShah #SyedQalandarBakhsh #Rohri #SindhHistory #SufiSaints #RizviSadat

The Persian Inscription on Mir Masum Shah's Minaret in Sukkur: A Glimpse into Mughal History

The Persian Inscription on Mir Masum Shah's Minaret in Sukkur: A Glimpse into Mughal History

Introduction

In the heart of Sukkur, Pakistan, stands a remarkable monument from the Mughal era: the minaret of Mir Masum Shah. This towering structure, known locally as Masum Shah jo Minaro, is not only a testament to the architectural prowess of its time but also bears a Persian inscription that offers profound insights into the history and culture of 16th-century Sindh. This article delves into the story behind this minaret, exploring the life of Mir Masum Shah, the construction of the monument, and the significance of the poetic inscription that adorns its entrance, providing a window into the Mughal legacy in the region.

The Life and Legacy of Mir Masum Shah

Mir Muhammad Masum Shah, also known as Syed Nizamuddin Mir Muhammad Masum Shah, was a prominent figure of the 16th century, born on February 7, 1538, in Sukkur-Bhakkar, Sindh. A multifaceted individual, he was a scholar, poet, calligrapher, historian, and soldier. Under his pen name, Nami, he authored the Tarikh-e-Masumi, a significant historical account of Sindh compiled in 1600 AD, which remains a valuable resource for understanding the region’s past Wikipedia: Masum Shah.

His contributions extended beyond academia. As a trusted lieutenant of Mughal Emperor Akbar, Mir Masum led military campaigns, notably annexing Baluchistan into the Mughal Empire around 1595. His service earned him large land grants (jagirs) in Sukkur, and in 1598, he was appointed governor of Sindh and Sibi. In 1606, Emperor Jahangir honored him with the title Amin-ul-Mulk, recognizing his exemplary qualities Heritage EFT Sindh. Mir Masum’s death on April 4, 1606, in Sukkur marked the end of a remarkable life, but his legacy lived on through his son, Mir Buzurg, and the minaret he envisioned.

The Minaret: A Mughal Architectural Marvel

The minaret of Mir Masum Shah is one of the most outstanding monuments in Sukkur, comparable to Mughal structures in Delhi, Ahmadabad, and Daulatabad Sindh Culture Department. Constructed from burnt bricks, it stands approximately 100 feet (30 meters) tall with a base circumference of about 84 feet (26 meters). The structure features 84 steps leading to a dome at the top, accessible via an internal staircase, offering a magnificent view of the surrounding area.

Historical records present some discrepancies regarding the construction timeline. Local accounts suggest the minaret’s construction began in 1593 and was completed in 1607, with Mir Buzurg overseeing its completion after his father’s death in 1606. However, some sources indicate the project started in 1595 and was finished in 1618, possibly due to confusion with the Islamic calendar (1018 AH ≈ 1609 AD) Sindh Culture Department. The 1593–1607 timeline aligns with Mir Masum’s lifetime and is supported by local historian Imdad Hussain Shah, making it the more widely accepted timeframe.

Aspect	Details
Height	Approximately 100 feet (30 meters)
Base Circumference	Approximately 84 feet (26 meters)
Construction Start	1593 or 1595 AD
Construction Completion	1607 AD (some sources suggest 1618, likely a misinterpretation of 1018 AH)
Material	Burnt bricks with lime mortar
Steps to Top	84

The minaret’s conical shape, slightly off the perpendicular, and its dome-topped design suggest it may have served as a watchtower, in addition to its commemorative purpose Heritage EFT Sindh.

The Persian Inscription: A Poetic Tribute

At the entrance of the minaret, an oblong stone slab bears a Persian inscription, written in the Arabic script common to Persian texts of the Mughal era. This inscription, as translated by local historian Imdad Hussain Shah, provides both historical details and a poetic tribute to Mir Masum Shah:

This minaret was built during the time of Jalaluddin Muhammad Akbar Badshah Ghazi. Mir Ma’sum, who is like the fourteenth moon in the sky, is famous in the world for his good name. He had this tall minaret built so that it raises its head towards the blue sky and asks the angels from the throne about the date of its construction. It is famous worldwide, overlooking the times. Mir Ma’sum, who is highly respected, his sacrifices are beyond the law. This minaret was built so that people say it is a memorial of the past (or for future generations). Someone in the sky said, it is the leg of the great throne (or it is the support). The composer of this poem is Mir Buzurg son of Mir Ma’sum.

The inscription highlights the minaret’s construction during Akbar’s reign, emphasizing Mir Masum’s esteemed reputation and the monument’s enduring legacy. The poetic imagery, comparing Mir Masum to the “fourteenth moon” and the minaret to a structure reaching the heavens, reflects the Mughal tradition of blending architecture with literary art. The mention of Mir Buzurg as the composer suggests his role in both completing the minaret and immortalizing his father’s vision through poetry.

Legacy and Current Status

Today, Mir Masum Shah’s minaret remains a cherished landmark in Sukkur, symbolizing the city’s Mughal heritage. Located on a hill, it offers panoramic views and attracts tourists and historians alike. Adjacent to the minaret are the graves of Mir Masum, his father Mir Safai, and other family members, housed under open stone canopies adorned with Persian inscriptions and Quranic verses. These canopies feature intricate stalactite designs and decorative tracery, further showcasing Mughal craftsmanship Sindh Culture Department.

The site is managed by the Government of Pakistan, with efforts to preserve its historical integrity. The minaret and its surroundings remain under the stewardship of the Masumi family, though the government oversees its maintenance Heritage EFT Sindh. Visitors can explore the minaret and nearby shrines, such as Faiz Mahal, gaining a deeper appreciation for Sukkur’s role in Mughal history.

Conclusion

The Persian inscription on Mir Masum Shah’s minaret is more than a decorative element; it is a historical and cultural artifact that encapsulates the legacy of a remarkable individual and the grandeur of the Mughal era. Through its poetic verses, we glimpse the reverence for knowledge, the importance of legacy, and the artistic sensibilities that defined 16th-century Sindh. As a enduring symbol of Sukkur’s heritage, the minaret continues to inspire awe and curiosity, inviting us to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring impact of history.

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Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

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