Provinces of Pakistan – Punjab

The province of Punjab in Pakistan is the backbone of the country. It is a land of high spirited people. Punjab has always been the seat of learning. The Buddhist University at Taxila is reputed to be the oldest university of the world. Punjab is dotted with ancient sites some dating back to thousands of years. The ruins of Indus Valley Civilization are found in Harappa. The Cholistan desert itself has some 300 historic sites. Multan one of the world’s oldest city is situated here. Punjab is also called the Bread Basket of Pakistan.

Punjab is the major agricultural contributor. It produces 68% of total crops grown in Pakistan. The rich alluvial soil together with abundant water supply provides favorable conditions for growing crops. The handicrafts of Punjab are exquisite and matchless and speak volumes of the people’s craftsmanship. Especially popular are the hand knotted carpets, embroidery, ceramics and glazed tiles. Sialkot the city of Punjab is a major supplier of sports goods and surgical instruments. Punjab has a fair share of monuments which are not only significant historically but are also a fine specimen of the architecture of that era. A large number of poets, intellects, sportsmen, artists, singers, actors have the honor of being associated with Punjab. Punjab is also the cultural capital of Pakistan. Nowhere in the world can you see so much diversity with harmony. Punjab is a place of colors and life.

Provinces of Pakistan – Sindh

Sindh is an important province of Pakistan. Its significance can be judged from the fact that Sindh is known as Bab ul Islam (Gateway of Islam) as the Arab conqueror Mohammad Bin Qasim entered the Sub Continent through the shores of Sindh. Although devoid of any classically beautiful physical features, Sindh has its own charm. The upper Sindh has rich fertile soil and is covered with green fields. It is rich in mineral resources and deposits of coal, natural gas and crude oil are found here.

Some part of the great Thar Desert lies in the eastern Sindh. Thar has a beauty of its own. There are many lakes in Sindh with Manchar Lake, Karli Lake, Haleji Lake and Keenjhar Lake being most important. Manchar Lake has the distinction of being the largest fresh water lake in the Pakistan while Haleji Lake is the largest water fowl sanctuary of Asia.

Sindh can also boast of a rich history. The ruins of Moen Jo Daro dating back to 2600 BC and one of the earliest settlements are found here. Other historical buildings include the Pucca Qila, Rani Kot fort, Graveyards of Makli and Chaukhandi and the Shah Jehan Mosque.

Sindh is also famous for its handicrafts. The most famous being the Ralli (also called Rilli) quilts. Ralli is a hand made specimen of human intelligence, creativity and hard work. Multi coloured pieces of cloths are stitched together in different patterns to produce a ralli. It is an essential part of a girl’s dowry and she starts weaving it from an early age assisted by her mother. Ralli is much more than a quilt/ bed linen, it is a young girl’s dreams and hopes and her mother’s prayers for a happy future.

Ajrak a block printed cotton shawl is the trademark of Sindh. It is made from vegetable dyes with maroon as the predominant color. Ajrak is held in high esteem all over Sindh. Usually guests are presented with ajraks to show respect.

Skull caps, jackets, cushion covers, tunics, table mats all embroidered with delicate mirror work are also made in Sindh. Ethnic silver jewelry is another item very much in demand.

Sindhi people are intelligent, sensitive and liberal minded. Sindh has given many seasoned politicians to Pakistan.