Faiza Tehseen

 The heritage sites in Nawabshah, now Shaheed Benazirabad district of Sindh, need to be preserved and promoted to attract foreign visitors and generate incomes. “The move will not only help promote the soft image of the country abroad but also add reveunues to the kitty,” suggested Dr Syed Shakir Ali Shah, Director of Archaeology Mohenjo Daro. Discussing the rich history of Nawabshah with WealthPK, he said the city dated back to the prehistoric era. “Once, it was a part of the Indus civilisation and later it served the Arab conquerors to dominate the region. This city was also a significant part of the Pakistan movement, which led to the creation of the country.  

He said the archaeological sites and monuments in Nawabshah consisted of shrines, mounds, mosques, tombs and forts. “The history of this area comprises prehistoric to the British colonial era. The archaeological data shows 71 different sites and monuments, out of which only 11 are archaeological mounds and the rest are monuments. Thirty-eight monuments belong to Kalhora, while 19 belong to the Talpur period. One Harrapan and one Buddhist site are also part of this heritage,” he explained.

Shakir Ali said that mosques and tombs belonging to the Kalhora and Talpur periods showed traditional local architecture, while Mughal architecture influence could also be seen in some places. “The combination of Kalhora and Mughal architecture presents interesting details like pointed arches, rectangular panels, multicusped arches, lanterns, and the famous turquoise blue glazed tiles (a signature feature of Kalhora architecture). Painting decoration is represented in several monuments of two types, fresco and secco. Most of the monuments are weather-beaten. It is also interesting that several tombs are famous by the name of a tribe not by the name of an entombed person.”

The director of Archaeology Mohenjo Daro said conservation of these sites was in progress, but it was also important to promote it as an archaeological district. “It is a wonder in itself having a multitude of historic periods. It will not only increase domestic and international tourist footfall but also showcase the historic glory of Nawabshah globally.”

Meanwhile, talking to WealthPK about the historical importance of Nawabshah, Syed Fayaz Ali Shah, Managing Director of Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC), said promotion of Nawabshah heritage sites through documentaries and brochers at international fairs would help strenghten the tourism sector of Pakistan. “The whole belt from Hyderabad city to Nawabshah is rich in cultural heritage. This belt is a tourism hub with the addition of the tomb of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Hyderabad itself is full of archaeological heritage; Halla and Matiari next to it are handicraft areas, and Nawabshah is rich in both culture and heritage.”

He said historical landmarks, traditions, heritage and unique architecture were the milestones for tourist attraction in Nawabshah. He said development of infrastructure, including well-carpeted roads, accommodation facilities, and other amenities was essential to making the city appealing and accessible for tourists. Sindh has been a pivot of ancient civilisations like the Indus Valley Civilization. Many cities in the province boast the vibrant past concerning the historical sites, monuments and cultural landmarks.  “The local community’s involvement is also important to making the place a tourist hub,” stressed Fayaz Ali.

Credit: INP-WealthPk