CHAKWAL

The origins of Chakwal are long-established, as archaeological evidence shows that the earliest traceable settlement in the area was the Gandhara civilisation - an Indo-Aryan civilisation existing from the 6th to 11th Centuries in regions of modern day Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Today, Hindu temples and forts still exist in the Chakwal region suggesting that the following empire was the Hindu Shahi dynasty. Subsequent to the Hindu Shahi dynasty was the spread of Islam, where the Ghaznavids and Ghaurids established rule over Chakwal and the rest of Punjab.

From the 16th to 18th Century, the Mughal Empire controlled majority of the Indian subcontinent and also affected Chakwal. In general, the Mughal Empire was renowned for their architectural developments, culture, and positive administrative changes.

Alongside the rise of the Sikh Confederacy, and the downfall of the Mughal empire, Ranjit Singh - leader of the Sukerchakia Misl, united Chakwal to the newly founded Sikh empire.

The Sikh empire followed the Mughal empire, wherein the Maharaja endorsed the construction of forts and other infrastructure across Punjab. After the downfall of the Sikh empire, the British East India Company, followed by the British Raj controlled and introduced modern infrastructure, and road, rail, and education systems.

Following the 1947 partition, Chakwal became part of the Western Punjab in Pakistan. Since then it has grown to be a significant city in Punjab - it is recognised mostly for its cement factories, produce, and contributions to the military.

The road from Chakwal city to Choa Saidan Shah - a town in the Chakwal district.

Until our paths cross in Sialkot - Trish Saab