Sheikhupura is a city and district in Punjab Province of Pakistan. It is known for its rich history and culture. Emperor Jahangir founded this city in 1607. And due to its long founding history, Sheikhupura has seen the rise and fall of Mughal, Sikh, and British rule over the years. Emperor Jahangir built Hiran Minar in remembrance of his favorite antelope near this city. It shows his love for nature and architecture.
Sheikhupura History
Founding and Mughal Era:
Imagine returning to the early 17th century, when the Mughal Empire flourished. Emperor Jahangir, a nature and architectural lover, founded a city as his hunting getaway in 1607. When first founded, this city was called “Jehangir pura” after him. Jahangir’s mother’s charming nickname, “Sheikhu Baba,” may have inspired “Sheikhupura”.
Jahangir built Sheikhu pura Fort to match his hunting retreat. In 1607, Jahangir’s diaries, called the Tuzk-e-Jahangiri, mention Sikandar Moeen building it during a hunting trip. The fort’s strong and breathtaking construction shows Mughal architectural brilliance.
Sikh and British Periods:
As the Mughal Empire declined in the 18th century, the Sikh Confederacy took over Sheikhupura and other provinces. The fort, which used to represent Mughal power, became an important resource for the Sikhs. Sikh Empire commander Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave his wife, Datar Kaur, the fort as a “Jagir” (land gift), who lived there till her death in 1838. She restored the fort and set up frescoed haveli.
After defeating the Sikhs, the British East India Company seized Punjab in 1849. After that, it became a district in 1920 to start a new administrative journey. It transformed from a Mughal hunting paradise to a major city, displaying its varied cultural and political influences.
Tehsils of Sheikhupura District:
This district has following five tehsils:
- Tehsil Sheikhupura
- Tehsil Ferozwala
- Tehsil Mureedkay
- Tehsil Safdarabad
- Tehsil Sharaqpur
Geographical Location:
Its unique environment greatly affects its agriculture and culture in the lush Rechna Doab between the Chenab and Ravi rivers. The district’s landscape has three main regions:
- The Upland (Sandal Bar): Sandal Bar, a northwest raised location, has flat ground with a slight southwest slope. Canal irrigation turned it from woodland to farmland. “Bar” is the higher ground between rivers, while “Sandal” may be named after a chieftain.
- Degh Valley: The Degh Valley, located centrally, is known for its hard soil composition. A seasonal stream, the Degh River, enriches the soil and supports agriculture in this region.
- Lowlands along the Ravi River: During the monsoon, the Ravi River floods “Hithar,” the district’s southern boundary lowlands. Some crops benefit from river silt, which improves this city’s soil fertility.
Sheikhupura District Population:
Sheikhupura District has population of 4,049,418, according to the 2023 census. With 2,079,378 males and 1,969,434 females, the gender ratio is 105.58 males to 100 females.
The district’s literacy rate is 68.88%. Examining the male literacy rate of 72.09% and the female literacy rate of 65.46% shows continued attempts to narrow the education gender gap.
Cultural Heritage & Festivals:
Punjabi is the major language of this district. Its attires and clothing are highly traditional. Men wear a turban or khusa, also they wear the attractive and comfortable Kurta-Shalwar. Moreover, women used to wear the Shalwar Kameez with a Dupatta of vibrant colors and intricate designs. The area favors this traditional dress.
Its cuisine is delicious. A favorite Punjabi comfort meal is Sarson Ka Saag (mustard greens) paired with Makai Ki Roti (cornbread). For meat lovers, family gatherings and festivities often include fragrant spiced meat curries. Traditional desserts finish any meal well.
Locals drink Namkeen Lassi, a delicious yogurt-based drink, to soothe their thirst, particularly in summer. Its festivals bring its culture to life. The Jashn-e-Baharan (Spring Festival) celebrates spring with traditional cuisine, costumes, arts, music, and floral displays.
Agriculture and Industries in Sheikhupura District:
Its economy relies on agriculture and its lush fields. The area is known for growing wheat, rice, and sugarcane. Narang is known for producing high-quality Super Kernel Basmati and Extra Long Grain 1121 Basmati rice. Guava is one of several fruits and vegetables grown here.
This district has been an industrial powerhouse due to its closeness to Lahore. The district has textile, food processing, and manufacturing sectors. The creation of industrial zones has boosted development.
The 1,536-acre Quaid-e-Azam Business Park along the M2 Motorway is significant. To attract manufacturing, auto parts, pharmaceuticals, and food and drinks, this magnificent city has modern infrastructure and facilities. The park supports regional economic activity and jobs with a 30,000-person labor colony.
The 178 Acre Rachna Industrial Park along the Lahore-Sheikhupura Road is also a Special Economic Zone. Strategically placed 7.5 kilometers off this Road, it is easily accessible from throughout the country by national roads and motorways.
This park might attract car parts, leather, packaging, and food processing companies, broadening the district’s industrial environment.
Notable Landmarks and Tourism:
Sheikhupura Fort:
Imagine visiting 1607, when Emperor Jahangir ordered the building of Sheikhupura Fort. Mughal architecture is evident in this fort’s strong walls and explain embellishments. It was home to Sikh monarchy and afterwards a British stronghold throughout the rise and fall of empires. While the fort shows signs of time, restoration works are ongoing to let tourists stroll through history.
Hiran Minar:
Located near the fort is the charming Hiran Minar, often known as the “Deer Tower.” Jahangir’s 33-meter tower honors his pet antelope, Mansraj, and stands beautifully in a large water tank. Once a royal hunting reserve, the region is now a peaceful place to think about a ruler’s love for his pet.
Shrine of Waris Shah:
The Shrine of Waris Shah in Jandiala Sher Khan is a must-see for spiritual and intellectual growth. The legendary Punjabi Sufi poet Waris Shah, author of “Heer Ranjha,” is buried here. Each year, history fans honor his legacy with poetry recitals and cultural celebrations that bring his stories to life.