Nawabshah: The Heart of Indus Valley Civilization
Benazirabad, a prominent city in the Sindh province of Pakistan, serves as both a district and a taluka. Formerly known as Nawabshah (نوابشاهه)District, it was renamed Shaheed Benazirabad in September 2008 to honor the late PM Benazir Bhutto after her assassination. Despite the official name change, many people still refer to it as Nawabshah due to its historical significance.
Taluka and District
Nawabshah is the administrative headquarters of Shaheed Benazirabad District and is centrally located in Sindh. Established as a district on November 1, 1912, it was initially part of Hyderabad Division before gaining independent status. Over the years, it has undergone several administrative changes, including the formation of new talukas and divisions.
Subdivisions Shaheed Benazirabad
The district consists of the following talukas: There are four taluka or tehsils in the district Benazirabad
- Nawabshah (Central hub of the district)
- Sakrand (Agricultural and commercial center)
- Qazi Ahmed (Rich in heritage and history)
- Daur (Known for its cultural significance and trade)
Climate and Geography
Shaheed Benazirabad experiences an extreme climate, characterized by scorching summers and mild winters. It is one of the hottest cities in Pakistan, with summer temperatures exceeding 50°C. Winters are relatively cool, with temperatures sometimes dropping to near freezing. The district has a semi-arid environment, receiving minimal rainfall annually.
Famous Landmarks and Archeological sites:
Chanhudaro (چانھون جو دڙو.)
Chanhu Jo Daro is an ancient archaeological site near village Jamal Keerio, in Shaheed Benazirabad. Believed to date back to the pre-Islamic era, it features pottery fragments, tools, and structural remains, indicating a once-thriving settlement.
Historians suggest it may be linked to the Indus Valley Civilization history or early Sindhi settlements. Despite its significance, the site remains largely unexplored due to a lack of preservation efforts. Proper excavation and conservation could uncover valuable insights into the region’s ancient history.
This city is home to several revered shrines that attract devotees and visitors:
Syed Ali Shah Bukhari
Ali Shah Bukhari is a revered saint in Benazirabad, Pakistan, known for his spiritual wisdom and influence. Every year, devotees gather for his urs (mela), a grand festival featuring prayers, Sufi music, and communal feasts. The event attracts thousands, symbolizing unity, faith, and the enduring legacy of Sufi traditions.
Baloo Ja Quba
Baloo Ja Quba is a historical tomb 12 Km from city Nawabshah, dedicated to the revered saint Bilawal Khan Zardari, also known as Baloo. It serves as the ancestral graveyard of Asif Ali Zardari, the two-time President of Pakistan. The site features intricate brick architecture, reflecting Sindh’s rich cultural heritage. Despite its historical and spiritual significance, it remains largely unpreserved.
Locals visit for blessings, considering it a sacred place. Baloo Ja Quba stands as an important landmark, symbolizing both spiritual devotion and the historical lineage of the Zardari family.
Jam Datar – A Revered Sufi Saint and His Shrine
Jam Datar was a revered Sufi saint whose shrine, located in Shaheed Benazirabad, is a significant spiritual site. Devotees from across Sindh visit to seek blessings and pay homage. The shrine, known for its peaceful ambiance and spiritual significance, hosts annual Urs celebrations, attracting thousands of visitors.
To honor the saint’s legacy, the district government declares a public holiday on the Urs. The site remains an important symbol of Sindh’s Sufi traditions, reflecting the region’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage and devotion to saints who preached love, peace, and humanity.
High-Profile Personalities
Shaheed Benazirabad, has been home to several high-profile personalities, particularly from the Zardari family. Asif Ali Zardari, the two-time President of Pakistan, hails from here, along with his children Aseefa Bhutto Zardari and Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari.
Other notable figures include Imdad Muhammad Shah (son of G. M. Syed), Zain Shah, Pir Muneer Shah (Son of Sain Suhno), Hakim Ali Zardari, a veteran politician, Faryal Talpur, a key political leader, and Dr. Azra Pechuho, a senior parliamentarian and healthcare advocate.
Their influence extends across politics, governance, and public service. Nawabshah remains politically significant due to its association with the Zardari family, shaping the region’s political landscape for decades.
Conclusion
Nawabshah, now officially Shaheed Benazirabad, remains a vibrant and historically rich district of Sindh. With its deep cultural heritage, religious significance, and administrative importance, it stands as a crucial part of Pakistan’s Sindh province. The city continues to evolve while preserving its historical identity, making it a fascinating place for both residents and visitors alike