The First Departmental Store in Sukkur: A Historical Gem from 1838
Introduction to Sukkur’s Colonial Legacy
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| Sukkur’s Retail Heritage: The Iconic 1838 Department Store |
Sukkur, a vibrant city along the Indus River in Sindh, Pakistan, holds a rich tapestry of history that intertwines ancient civilizations with colonial influences. Among its lesser-known historical treasures is the first departmental store established in November 1838 on Bandar Road by Messrs Forth and Company, a Bombay-based firm led by Parsi agent Mr. Pestonji Framji. This store played a pivotal role during the First Anglo-Afghan War, catering to the needs of British and Indian troops stationed in Sukkur. Let’s delve into this fascinating chapter of Sukkur’s past, exploring its significance and the unique offerings of this pioneering store.
A Store Born of War: The First Anglo-Afghan War Context
The First Anglo-Afghan War (1838–1842) was a critical conflict driven by British fears of Russian influence in Afghanistan. To secure their interests, the British East India Company invaded Afghanistan, reinstating Shah Shuja Durrani as emir. Sukkur, strategically located along the Indus, became a vital transit point for military supplies heading to Afghanistan. The British established a military garrison in Sukkur in 1839, transforming the city into a bustling hub for troops and logistics. It was in this context that Messrs Forth and Company opened their departmental store to support the war effort.
The store, located on Bandar Road—then a jungle-like area—was a lifeline for soldiers. It stocked essential provisions tailored for military travel and the harsh Afghan climate, including alcohol, soda water bottles, condiments, dried pork, and other goods necessary for sustenance and morale.
Who Was Mr. Pestonji Framji?
Mr. Pestonji Framji, the Parsi agent behind the store, was a key figure in Bombay’s mercantile community. Parsis, known for their entrepreneurial spirit, played significant roles in British India’s trade networks. Pestonji’s involvement in Sukkur highlights the diverse cultural influences that shaped colonial commerce. His store not only served practical purposes but also symbolized the intersection of local and colonial economies, bridging Bombay’s commercial prowess with Sukkur’s strategic importance.
The Store’s Operations and Clientele
The departmental store catered to two distinct groups of soldiers. Indian troops, stationed along Bandar Road, were supplied directly from the store. British troops, positioned on a nearby hill, received their provisions in a separate arrangement, reflecting the colonial hierarchy of the time. The store’s inventory was carefully curated to meet the needs of soldiers embarking on arduous journeys to Afghanistan. Items like alcohol and soda water provided refreshment, while dried pork and condiments ensured nutritional variety during long campaigns.
Near the store lay a cemetery, possibly linked to the war’s toll or earlier historical events, adding a somber note to the area’s history. This juxtaposition of commerce and mortality underscores the complex realities of colonial military life in Sukkur.
Historical Significance of the Store
The establishment of Sukkur’s first departmental store marked a turning point in the city’s commercial landscape. It foreshadowed Sukkur’s growth as a trading hub, a role it solidified under British rule with landmarks like the Lansdowne Bridge (1889) and Sukkur Barrage (1932). The store also reflects the broader colonial strategy of leveraging local infrastructure to support imperial ambitions. By facilitating the supply chain for the Anglo-Afghan War, it contributed to the war’s logistics, albeit in a supporting role.
Moreover, the store’s operation by a Parsi agent highlights the multicultural fabric of British India, where communities like the Parsis played integral roles in economic and administrative spheres. This historical episode enriches our understanding of Sukkur’s place in global colonial networks.
Exploring Sukkur’s Heritage Today
While the original store no longer exists, Bandar Road remains a vibrant part of Sukkur, echoing its historical significance. Visitors to Sukkur can explore related colonial landmarks, such as the Lansdowne Bridge and the Sukkur Barrage, or delve into the city’s ancient roots at sites like Lakhan-jo-Daro. The nearby city of Rohri, connected by the Indus, offers additional historical attractions, including the shrine of Mir Masum Shah.
For history enthusiasts, Sukkur’s colonial past offers a window into the interplay of war, commerce, and culture. The story of Messrs Forth and Company’s store is a reminder of the city’s enduring legacy as a gateway to Sindh.
Conclusion
The first departmental store in Sukkur, opened in 1838 by Messrs Forth and Company, is more than a footnote in history it’s a testament to the city’s strategic importance during the First Anglo-Afghan War. From its role in supplying troops to its operation by a Parsi entrepreneur, the store encapsulates the dynamic interplay of colonial ambitions and local agency. As we reflect on Sukkur’s past, let’s celebrate its rich heritage and the stories that continue to shape its identity.
References
- Information sourced from local historical accounts by Imdad Hussain Shah, Rohri.
- First Anglo-Afghan War details: Wikipedia
