BAHAWALPUR - An Overview

The princely state of Bahawalpur was located in the south of the Pakistani side of Punjab. It has a rich and multifaceted history. Existing as an autonomous region for over two centuries, the state navigated alliances and challenges with regional powers like the Sikh Confederacy, Sikh Empire, and the rule of the British Crown. Bahawalpur's strategic location along the Indus River made it an essential centre of trade and culture.

 

Interact with the map to see the proximity of Bahawalpur to other cities, and the Indus, and Sutlej rivers.

Foundation and Early History of the state of bahawalpur

Established in 1748, Bahawalpur was founded by Nawab Bahawal Khan I. The state grew into a significant power in the region, especially with the decline of Mughal influence in Punjab. The Abbasi dynasty ruled the state, establishing Bahawalpur as a stable, agricultural region. It was known for its cultivation of cotton, wheat, and sugarcane. Its capital, Bahawalpur city, became a hub of culture and trade, and the Derawar Fort in the Cholistan Desert served as a symbol of the Nawabs' power.

Relationship with the sikh confederacy and Empire

The relationship between the princely state of Bahawalpur and the Sikh Confederacy, particularly the Sikh Empire under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, was marked by a mix of tension and strategic diplomacy. During the early 19th century, as the Sikh Empire expanded across Punjab, Bahawalpur sought to maintain its independence and protect its territory from annexation.

Strategic Diplomacy: To counter the Sikh Empire's territorial ambitions, the Nawab of Bahawalpur established diplomatic ties with the British East India Company, seeking their protection against Ranjit Singh's expansion. This alliance helped Bahawalpur remain autonomous, while many other regions in Punjab fell under Sikh control.

Occasional Hostility: Despite the diplomatic balance, there were periods of tension and conflict between Bahawalpur and the Sikh Empire. The Sikh Empire's dominance in northern Punjab posed a threat to Bahawalpur's stability, leading to occasional military clashes.

Overall, Bahawalpur's strategic alliance with the British allowed it to resist absorption into the Sikh Empire and maintain its independence until it came under British suzerainty in the mid-19th century. This helped shape Bahawalpur’s status as a separate princely state even as the Sikh Empire rose to power in the region.

Suzerainty under the British Crown

In 1833, Bahawalpur signed a treaty of friendship with the British, becoming a vassal state - a state with varying independence over internal affairs, but under the control of another state in foreign affairs, under their suzerainty. This agreement provided military support to the British in return for recognition of the Nawab's rule and a promise of protection against external threats, including the Sikhs.

Unlike many princely states, Bahawalpur maintained a high degree of internal autonomy. The Nawabs had authority over local administration, law and order, taxation, and the judicial system while acknowledging the British Crown as their overarching, paramount power.

This arrangement allowed Bahawalpur to develop its irrigation systems along the Sutlej River, contributing to agricultural expansion and economic prosperity. The Nawabs also invested in education and infrastructure, establishing schools and constructing notable buildings.

The Impact of Partition and Bahawalpur’s Role in the New Pakistan

The Partition of India in 1947 brought dramatic changes to the political landscape of South Asia, including the princely states. As the British withdrew, the Nawab of Bahawalpur - Sadiq Muhammad Khan V, had to decide whether to join India or Pakistan. The Nawab chose Pakistan, he was driven by geographical contiguity - as the state shared a border with the new country, and also shared religious and cultural ties with Pakistan.

On October 5, 1947, the Instrument of Accession was signed, making Bahawalpur one of the earliest princely states to join Pakistan. This decision played a crucial role in the integration of southern Punjab into the new nation, helping to stabilise the region during the chaotic aftermath of Partition.

Initially, Bahawalpur retained some autonomy as a separate entity within Pakistan. The state's leadership continued to manage local governance, but it gradually integrated into the national framework.

Integration into West Pakistan and Legacy

In 1955, Bahawalpur was merged into West Pakistan (note that at this time, West Pakistan referred to modern day Pakistan, and East Pakistan referred to Modern day Bangladesh) as part of a broader policy known as the One Unit Scheme, which aimed at centralising power. This marked the end of Bahawalpur's status as a princely state.

The merger dissolved the separate identity of the state, incorporating its territory into the Punjab Province. While the One Unit Scheme was eventually abolished in 1970, Bahawalpur remained part of Punjab.

Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Bahawalpur

The princely state of Bahawalpur is a crucial chapter in the history of Punjab, symbolising the delicate balance of power between local rulers, the British Crown, and neighboring empires like that of Ranjit Singh. Its strategic decisions during the colonial era allowed it to maintain autonomy and thrive under British suzerainty, contributing to its relatively peaceful transition into Pakistan.

This blend of diplomatic finesse, economic development, and cultural heritage marks Bahawalpur as more than just a former princely state - it is a testament to the resilience and strategic acumen of its rulers in navigating a rapidly changing world.

To The Princely State of Bahawalpur, where history and heritage blend into a legacy. With respect, Trish Saab.