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Cholistan


Location: South Punjab, 30 Km from Bahawalpur Civilization: Indus Valley Civilization. Cholistan is locally known as Rohi. This famous desert is 30 Km from Bahawalpur and comprises of an area of 16,000 sq.km. which extends upto the Thar desert extending over to Sindh. The word Cholistan is derived from 'Cholna' which means moving. The people of Cholistan lead a semi-nomadic life, moving from one place to another in search of water and fodder for their animals. This ancient land with its roots anchored in the Indus Civilizations was invaded by successive waves of conquerors from the west who left a profound spiritual imprint on its rich and fascinating culture. Nearly 2500 years ago the `Hakkra' river cradled a 50 kms wide green valley in which a number of towns flourished leaving deep under the sands archeological treasures still being discovered today. Present day Cholistan hardly gets any rain. Climatic extremes caused by scorching heat and dryness during the day and cold but brilliantly starry nights leave little room for cropping. The people of Cholistan today lead a semi-nomadic life, moving around the desert in search of water to grow food for their animals. They enjoy music and singing during leisure and their lives are driven by strong spiritual beliefs. Cholistan's immortal spirit derives from the mysticism surrounding countless legends that abound of its past saints, their shrines and the fading memories of a time gone by. Shrine of Channan Pir: The Shrine of Channan Pir is located 45 Km from Derawar Fort. Channan Pir was a disciple of Makhdoom Jahanian Jahangasht. The devotion shown by the thousands who make pilgrimage each year to the famous 'Mela Chanan Pir' is a living example of the spiritualism that gives `Cholistan' its unique identity. Derawar Fort: Derawar Fort is located 48 Km from Dera Nawab Sahib. It is still in a good condition. The rampart walls are intact and still guarded by the personal guards of the Amir of Bahawalpur. The tombs of the ex-rulers of Bahawalpur and their families are located in this fort. The tombs have nice glazed blue tile work. Prior permission of the senior Amir of Bahawalpur is required to enter the fort. The people of Bahawalpur are very simple and loving, have great faith in religion, Pirs, Saints and Shrines. They love music and singing. In the absence of other musical instruments even a 'Ghara' (Pitcher) would keep the concert going. The Cholistan people tend to preserve their primitive customs and traditions. The costumes of women in Cholistan are embroidered and printed colourful 'Cholid', ordinary and long embroidered shirt, baggy shalwars, dupattas and 'Chunries', Ghagras which are prepared beautifully in strong contrast. Village women still wear heavy skirts made of 40 yards of cloth known as Cholas Hath Ghagra. Men wear embroidered and colourful Cholas (long shirts). Balaposh (robe like coat), heavy baggy shalwars, Turkish caps, Turbans and Zari shoes have a liking for a plain and embroidered colourful Cholas, Bangis, Turbans, and Balaposh. Men in the Urban area wear Shalwar, Kameez and Coat, & some people also wear Trouser.