An Untold Story Of An Ancient State OF Nagar
Nestled in the majestic northern region of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, Nagar stands as a testament to a rich history, cultural diversity, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. This princely state, with its roots dating back to the 14th century, has undergone significant transformations, from an autonomous principality to a colonial entity and eventually becoming an integral part of Pakistan. In this blog post, we delve into the historical tapestry of Nagar, exploring its governance, demographics, religion, geography, and the unique villages that contribute to its vibrant mosaic.
.jpg "History Of Nagar State From 3 BC to 1974")
Historical Evolution:
14th Century Origins:
Established in the 14th century, Nagar began its journey as an autonomous principality, cultivating its unique cultural identity amid the stunning landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan.
The British Era:
The 19th-century Hunza–Nagar Campaign (1889-1893) marked a turning point, as the British exerted control over the region. Nagar, once independent, became a colonial princely state under the Gilgit Agency until 1947.
Anglo-Burusho War 1891
Setting the Stage:
The narrative commences with the appointment of British Colonel
Algernon George Arnold Durand as the administrator of the Gilgit Agency.
Charged with overseeing the region, Durand embarked on a transformative
mission, constructing roads, telegraph lines, and mail systems. His vision
included improving the road from Kashmir through Hunza and Nagar up to the
Russian frontier, a move viewed with suspicion by the Mirs of Nagar and Hunza,
who saw it as a threat to their advantageous remoteness.
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Rumors and Rising Tensions:
In response to rumors of an impending attack on Chalt Fort near the
border, Durand reinforced the fort and continued road development. The Mirs of
Nagar and Hunza issued a warning to cease construction and vacate the fort,
deeming any defiance an act of war. Undeterred, Durand reinforced the fort and
accelerated road construction, escalating tensions. As a consequence, mail from
the British Resident in Chinese Turkmenistan was barred from transiting through
Hunza and Nagar.
The Ultimatum and Initiation of the Campaign:
Amidst mounting tensions, British India, perceiving a breach of the
1889 agreement with Hunza, issued an ultimatum that went unanswered. In 1891,
the Anglo-Brusho Campaign was initiated. The clash saw British forces,
commanded by Durand, facing off against Hunza and Nagar in a bid to secure
their strategic objectives.
The Forts at Nilt:
The campaign reached a pivotal moment during the battle at Nilt
Nagar, where Durand led a force of around one thousand rifles and two guns. The
British gained control by storming the fort at Nilt and overcoming the cliffs
beyond it after a fortnight's delay. This marked the occupation of Hunza and
Nagar, with the British reinstalling the chief of Nagar and installing the
half-brother of the Raja of Hunza as the chief of Hunza.
The Legacy:
The Hunza–Nagar Campaign of 1891 was not without recognition. The
British awarded three Victoria Crosses for valor during this intense conflict.
Moreover, the aftermath saw the establishment of a British protectorate over
Hunza and Nagar in 1893, altering the geopolitical landscape of the region.
Kashmiri Vassalage:
Despite being a vassal state under the Maharaja of Jammu and
Kashmir from 1868, Nagar maintained a degree of autonomy. The rulers, known for
their loyalty, were granted a Hereditary gun salute of 15 guns by the British.
Integration into Pakistan:
In November 1947, Mir Shaukat Ali Khan, the ruler of Nagar, acceded the state to Pakistan. The region retained internal self-government until the political landscape shifted in 1973, leading to its merger with the Northern Areas.
The demand for civil rights in 1968 by Syed Yahya Shah marked a significant step towards political awareness. The abdication of the Mir of Nagar in 1973, following Ayub Khan's era, reshaped the governance structure, aligning it with the political changes in Pakistan.
Governance and Rulers:
Maglot Dynasty:
Governed by the hereditary rulers of the Maglot dynasty, known as Mirs, Nagar saw a line of leaders shaping its destiny. Brigadier Mir Shaukat Ali Khan, the last ruler, witnessed the abolition of the state in 1972 under the leadership of Pakistani Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto.
The historical reigns of Mirs, from Fazil Khan in 1660 to the
incumbent Mir Barkat Ali Khan, provide a chronological account of the
leadership that guided Nagar through various epochs.
Fazil Khan (1660-1700):
Fazil Khan was among the early rulers of Nagar in the 17th century.
Daud Khan (1700-1750):
Daud Khan succeeded Fazil Khan and ruled from 1700 to 1750.
Ali Dad Khan (1750-1758):
Ali Dad Khan had two reigns, the first from 1750 to 1758.
Hari Tham Khan (1758-1761):
Hari Tham Khan had the shortest serving leadership, reigning from
1758 to 1761.
Ali Dad Khan (1761-1770):
Ali Dad Khan's second reign lasted from 1761 to 1770.
Kamal Khan (1770-1780):
Kamal Khan assumed leadership from 1770 to 1780.
Rahim Khan I (1780-1800):
Rahim Khan I governed Nagar during the late 18th century.
Rahim Khan II (1800-1839):
Rahim Khan II's rule extended from 1800 to 1839.
Jaffar Zahid Khan (1839–1891):
Jaffar Zahid Khan had the first longest-serving leadership, from
1839 to 1891.
Raja Azur Khan (1891-1892):
Raja Ozor Khan served during a regency period and died in 1922.
Jaffar Zahid Khan (1892-1904):
Jaffar Zahid Khan returned for a second reign from 1892 to 1904.
Raja Mir Iskandar Khan (1904-1940):
Raja Mir Iskandar Khan governed Nagar through the early 20th
century.
Mir Shaukat Ali Khan (1940–1974):
Mir Shaukat Ali Khan ruled from 1940 until the accession into
Pakistan in September 1974.
Mir Shaukat Ali Khan (1974–2003):
Mir Barkat Ali Khan assumed office in 2003 and is the current ruler
of Nagar.
These rulers have played crucial roles in shaping the history and governance of Nagar, navigating through various historical epochs and transitions, from the principality's early days to its integration into Pakistan.
Demographics:
Population and Ethnic Composition:
The Nagar valley, with around 90,000 inhabitants, boasts a vibrant mix of ethnicities. The two primary groups, the Burushaski and Shina speakers, contribute to the linguistic diversity of the region. Bedeski, a third language, adds an additional layer to the cultural mosaic.
Religious Landscape:
Traditionally, Nagar has been predominantly Shia Isna'asheri (Jafaria), reflecting the religious diversity that characterizes the broader Gilgit-Baltistan region.
Geographic Features:
Mountainous Terrain:
Nagar's geography, marked by towering mountains, including the formidable Mount Dastagilsar, provided a natural defense against external forces. The Karakoram Highway, connecting Pakistan and China through the Khunjerab Pass, traverses Nagar, enhancing its strategic significance.
Linguistic Division:
The Nagar Valley is linguistically divided into Nagar Shinaki and Nagar Burosho, showcasing the linguistic diversity that is inherent in the region.
Villages of Nagar:
· Shina Speaking Villages:
· Chalat (Paaeen/baala)
· Bar Valley
· Chaprote Valley
· Budalas valley
· Jafarabad Valley
· Nilt Valley
· Thol Valley
· Qasimabad Valley (Masoot)
· Ghulmet Valley
· Yal Valley
· Pissan Valley
· Minapin Valley
· Burushaski Speaking Villages:
These villages, with their unique demographics and occupations, contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Nagar, representing a blend of religious scholars, educationists, sports enthusiasts, craftsmen, farmers, and more.
Conclusion:
Nagar, with its captivating history, diverse population, and
awe-inspiring geography, stands as a jewel in the crown of Gilgit-Baltistan.
From its origins in the 14th century to the present day, Nagar has evolved,
adapting to the shifts in political landscapes while preserving its cultural
heritage. As we explore the villages, rulers, and demographics, we gain a
deeper appreciation for the intricate tapestry that defines Nagar, making it a
unique and integral part of Pakistan's historical and cultural legacy.
