Shujabad: Discovering its History and Culture

Shujabad is a historical city and the capital of Shujabad Tehsil, located in Multan District, Punjab, Pakistan. It is situated 45 kilometres south of Multan, with the Chenab River flowing along its western border. 

The city boasts a rich history, dating back to its capture by Muhammad ibn Qasim in 711 AD. Shujabad’s name comes from Nawab Shuja Khan, an Afghan ruler who established the city in 1750. Nawab Shuja Khan was the second son of Nawab Zahid Khan, who served as the governor (Subedar) of Multan under Ahmed Shah Durrani’s rule. 

Shujabad is known for its agricultural industry, fueled by its hot climate, flat terrain, and well-developed irrigation system. These factors contribute to the ideal growing conditions for crops like cotton, wheat, dates, and mangoes. The city also has a civil hospital, along with several private hospitals, to serve its residents. Additionally, Shujabad has a court, police station, rescue services, and a fire brigade office. 

Graana.com has prepared a detailed guide about Shujabad, highlighting its history, culture, agriculture, and other aspects. 

 

History of Shujabad

Shujabad has a rich historical heritage dating back to its capture by Muhammad ibn Qasim in 711 AD. The city is named after Nawab Shuja Khan, an Afghan king and Nawab Zahid Khan’s second son. Nawab Shuja Khan, who twice served as Multan’s governor under Ahmed Shah Durrani, established Shujabad in 1750. From 1767 to 1772, he built the powerful fortress wall, transforming the city into a secure bastion. 

Nawab Shuja Khan sought sanctuary in Shujabad in 1772 after being severely defeated by Mughal soldiers during the siege of Multan. He sought refuge within the fort to elude the pursuing Mughal Army, finally dying in 1775 and was buried outside the city in an area known as Basti Khairpur.

The historic city of Shujabad was methodically built and fortified under Nawab Shuja Khan’s leadership, with a symmetrical layout and four different bazaars in Multan called after the city gates: Multani Bazaar, Rasheed Shah Bazaar, Rail Bazaar, and Chotaka Bazaar. Each gate opened separately, with Chandni Chowk acting as a central hub connecting all the bazaars. They are the most famous places to visit in Multan.

Shujabad was known for its spiritual presence, especially that of Rasheed Shah, a prominent Sufi saint whose dargah (shrine) is located within the walled city. Shujabad also became known for its luscious mangoes, which added to its attraction and significance in the region. Despite the passage of time and the progressive deterioration of its walls, Shujabad’s historical attractiveness and cultural legacy continue to entice visitors today.  

 

Shujabad Weather

 

The climate of Shujabad can be described as hot and arid, typical of many regions in Pakistan. The city experiences a semi-arid climate with scorching summers and mild winters. 

During the summer months, which extend from May to September, temperatures soar, often reaching well above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The intense heat is accompanied by low humidity, making the conditions feel even hotter. 

In contrast, winters, spanning from November to February, are relatively mild and pleasant. Daytime temperatures range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), while nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 5 to 10 degrees Celsius (41 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Shujabad receives minimal rainfall throughout the year, with the majority of precipitation occurring during the monsoon season from July to September. However, rainfall amounts are generally low, and the city can experience periods of drought. 

The climate of Shujabad is ideal for growing crops such as cotton, wheat, and mangoes. The hot weather and irrigation system from canals provide the perfect conditions for these crops to thrive. 

 

Geography of Shujabad

Shujabad is situated in a region of Pakistan characterized by flat plains and sparse vegetation. It lies in the southern part of the Punjab province, near the city of Multan. 

The agricultural landscape around Shujabad primarily supports the cultivation of crops like wheat, cotton, sugarcane, and notably, mangoes, which are renowned in the region.

The city is on relatively flat terrain, with no significant geographical features such as mountains or rivers nearby. The absence of natural barriers has historically made Shujabad vulnerable to invasions and conflicts. 

Despite its lack of prominent geographical landmarks, Shujabad’s strategic location along important trade routes have contributed to its historical significance and cultural importance in the region. Today, the city serves as a center for commerce, agriculture, and transportation, connecting various parts of Punjab and beyond. 

 

Languages

In Shujabad and its surrounding areas, the majority of residents speak a variety of languages. Urdu is widely spoken, serving as a common language of communication. Additionally, languages such as Haryanvi, Mewati, Punjabi, Rangri, and Saraiki are also prevalent among the local population, reflecting the linguistic diversity of the region. Each of these languages may be spoken by different communities within Shujabad, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the area. 

 

Shakir Shujabadi

 

Dr. Shakir Shujabadi stands out as a prominent figure in Shujabad’s cultural landscape. Renowned for his poetry in the Saraiki language, spoken in the region where Shujabad resides, Dr. Shujabadi has become a voice for the community. His literary journey began in 1986, marked by his participation in a Mushaira, a poetry symposium. Over the years, he established himself as a leading figure in this art form, leaving a lasting impression on another Mushaira in 1991.

Recognition for his work followed, culminating in prestigious awards like the Pride of Performance Award in 2017 and the Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence) Award in 2023. The depth of his poetry, praised for its emotional resonance and social commentary, has garnered him respect from literary circles, including the President of the Urdu Department at a university who commended his work in 2016.

 

Shujabad Culture

 

The culture of Shujabad is a vibrant tapestry woven from various traditions, customs, and practices that have evolved over centuries. It reflects the rich heritage of the region, influenced by its historical, geographical, and social dynamics. 

One of the defining features of Shujabad’s culture is its emphasis on hospitality and community bonds. Visitors to the city often experience warm welcomes and generous hospitality from the locals, who take pride in sharing their traditions and customs with guests. 

Religious festivals play a significant role in the cultural life of Shujabad. Muslims observe religious events such as Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha with fervor and enthusiasm, marked by prayers, feasting, and communal gatherings. Additionally, the city is home to various shrines and dargahs of Sufi saints, where devotees gather to seek blessings and participate in spiritual rituals. 

In Shujabad’s cultural landscape, traditional music and dance play integral roles. People frequently perform folk music, which features traditional instruments like the dhol, flute, and harmonium, at weddings, festivals, and other social gatherings. Likewise, they energetically perform folk dances such as Bhangra and Jhumar, reflecting the joy and vitality of the local culture.

Cuisine also plays a central role in Shujabad’s culture, with local delicacies showcasing the flavors and ingredients of the region. Traditional dishes such as biryani, kebabs, and various types of bread are enjoyed by residents and visitors, adding to the city’s culinary richness. 

Art and craftsmanship flourish in Shujabad, with artisans skilled in pottery, embroidery, and woodwork creating exquisite pieces that reflect the cultural heritage of the region. 

 

Agriculture in Shujabad

 

Agriculture plays a pivotal role in the economy of Shujabad and its surrounding region. The fertile soils and favorable climate make it conducive to the cultivation of various crops. 

One of the primary crops grown in Shujabad is wheat, which serves as a staple food crop for the local population. Also, cotton is extensively cultivated for its fiber, contributing significantly to the region’s textile industry. 

Sugarcane is another important crop grown in Shujabad, with numerous sugarcane mills dotting the landscape. Sugarcane cultivation provides raw material for the sugar industry and supports ancillary industries such as ethanol production. 

Perhaps the most famous agricultural product of Shujabad is its mangoes. The region is renowned for producing high-quality mangoes, which are prized for their taste and aroma. Mango orchards dot the countryside, and the mango harvest season is eagerly awaited by both farmers and consumers. 

Other crops grown in Shujabad include rice, maize, and various fruits and vegetables. The agricultural sector provides livelihoods for a significant portion of the population and contributes to the region’s prosperity and growth. 

 

Shujabad to Multan Distance

The distance from Shujabad, Pakistan to Multan, Pakistan is 62.4 kilometres along Sukkur – Multan Motorway/M-5 and Multan – Faisalabad Motorway/M-4 according to Google Maps. It will take 51 minutes to get there by car. 

 

FAQs about Shujabad

The following are the most frequently asked questions about Shujabad: 

 

What is the history of Shujabad?

Shujabad holds a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1750 by Nawab Shuja Khan, the son of Nawab Zahid Khan. Its strategic importance traces even further, to its capture by Muhammad ibn Qasim in 711 AD. The city’s fortification wall, built between 1767 and 1772, stands as a testament to its defensive past, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of its founders and rulers throughout the centuries. 

 

What are the main attractions in Shujabad?

Shujabad offers a blend of historical and cultural attractions for visitors. Notable sites include the centuries-old fortification wall, the revered dargah of Sufi saint Rasheed Shah, and the vibrant bazaars like Multani Bazaar and Chandni Chowk. Exploring these landmarks provides a glimpse into Shujabad’s rich heritage and bustling city life. 

 

What is the climate like in Shujabad?

Shujabad experiences a semi-arid climate characterised by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). While winters are relatively mild with daytime temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Rainfall is minimal, mainly occurring during the monsoon season from July to September. 

 

What languages are spoken in Shujabad?

Shujabad residents converse in a variety of languages, including Urdu, Punjabi, Saraiki, Haryanvi, Mewati, and Rangri. Urdu serves as the primary language for communication, while regional languages like Punjabi and Saraiki are also widely used. This linguistic diversity reflects the multicultural nature of Shujabad’s population. 

 

What is the significance of agriculture in Shujabad?

Agriculture is integral to Shujabad’s economy and cultural identity. The fertile lands support the cultivation of crops such as wheat, cotton, sugarcane, and mangoes. Sugarcane and mangoes, in particular, hold economic significance, contributing to the region’s prosperity and reputation. Agriculture sustains livelihoods and shapes the cultural fabric of Shujabad as an agricultural hub in the region. 

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