The City of Saints and Heritage

Multan, one of the oldest living cities in the world, lies in the southern part of Punjab, Pakistan. Known as the “City of Saints,” Multan boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, spirituality, and craftsmanship. It is a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern aspirations, where every brick tells a story, and every breeze carries the scent of rose petals and dust—a symbol of the city's enduring past and vibrant soul.

Historical Legacy

Multan’s history stretches back thousands of years. It is believed to have been a thriving city even before the arrival of Alexander the Great in 326 BCE. It was known to the Greeks as “Malloi” and has been mentioned in ancient historical texts. Over the centuries, it has witnessed the rise and fall of many civilizations, including Hindu, Buddhist, Persian, Greek, Arab, and later, Muslim empires.

The city played a vital role during the early Islamic conquests in South Asia. When the Arab general Muhammad bin Qasim conquered Sindh in the 8th century, Multan quickly became a key cultural and commercial hub. From then on, it evolved into a center of Islamic learning and Sufism. The shrines of renowned saints attracted scholars, poets, and travelers from far and wide.

City of Saints

What truly distinguishes Multan is its spiritual aura. The city is adorned with the magnificent shrines of Sufi saints who preached peace, love, and tolerance. Among the most famous are:

1. Hazrat Baha-ud-Din Zakariya: A prominent Sufi scholar of the Suhrawardiyya order, his shrine is a stunning example of early Indo-Islamic architecture, built with glazed blue tiles and intricate carvings.
2. Hazrat Shah Rukn-e-Alam: The grandson of Baha-ud-Din Zakariya, his mausoleum is an architectural masterpiece and one of the largest domed structures in South Asia. It is considered the spiritual heart of Multan.
3. Hazrat Shams Tabriz: Another significant figure in the Sufi tradition, his shrine attracts thousands of devotees annually.

These shrines are not just places of worship—they are cultural hubs where music, poetry, and spirituality intertwine. During annual Urs festivals, the city bursts into celebration with Qawwali music, prayers, and rituals that honor the saints’ legacies.

Architectural Beauty

Multan’s architecture is a harmonious blend of ancient and Islamic styles. The city’s skyline is dotted with domes, minarets, and intricately designed gateways. The use of blue glazed tiles, brickwork, and wooden lattice screens (jali) is a hallmark of Multani design.

Apart from the shrines, the Multan Fort (Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh) is a historic site of immense significance. Though much of the original structure has suffered damage over time, the fort still offers panoramic views of the city and is home to the majestic Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam.

Other architectural gems include the Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower), Hussain Agahi Bazaar, and the Eidgah Mosque, each representing different eras of Multan’s evolution.

A Center of Handicrafts and Culture

Multan is famous for its traditional arts and crafts. The city’s artisans have passed down their skills through generations, producing some of the finest handicrafts in Pakistan.

1. Blue Pottery: Known for its deep blue and white patterns, Multani pottery is both decorative and functional. Vases, tiles, and plates made in this style are highly prized.
2. Ajrak and Embroidery: The region produces intricate embroidery work, especially on clothing and home textiles. Ajrak, a traditional block-printed fabric, is also popular in Multan’s fashion.
3. Camel Skin Lamps: A unique Multani craft, these handmade lamps are painted with floral and geometric patterns and emit a warm, colorful glow when lit.

These crafts are widely available in Multan’s bustling bazaars, which are a sensory feast of color, sound, and aroma.

The Modern Face of Multan

While Multan is steeped in history, it is also a growing urban center. The city is rapidly developing in terms of infrastructure, education, and commerce. It is home to several universities, including Bahauddin Zakariya University and Nishtar Medical University.

Multan International Airport connects the city to major domestic and international destinations, making it more accessible to travelers and business professionals. The city's industries, particularly in agriculture, textiles, and ceramics, contribute significantly to the national economy.

Agriculture and Mangoes

Multan is located in the fertile plains of the Punjab region, making it a rich agricultural area. The city is famously known for producing some of the world’s finest mangoes. The hot climate and rich soil make it ideal for cultivating varieties such as Chaunsa, Sindhri, and Anwar Ratol.

During the summer months, mango orchards flourish, and mango festivals celebrate the fruit with passion. Visitors often get the chance to taste fresh mangoes straight from the trees, an experience that delights locals and tourists alike.

Other major crops include cotton, wheat, and sugarcane, contributing to the city's role as an agricultural powerhouse.

Festivals and Traditions

Multan celebrates a blend of religious, cultural, and seasonal festivals that reflect its rich heritage. The Urs festivals of the saints are the most prominent, bringing together people of all backgrounds in spiritual celebration.

The city also comes alive during national holidays like Pakistan Day and Independence Day, with parades, fireworks, and community events. Traditional music and dance, such as Jhumar and Sufi Qawwali, are performed at weddings and festivals, preserving the cultural identity of the region.

Cuisine of Multan

Multani cuisine is hearty and flavorful, featuring both vegetarian and meat dishes cooked with a variety of spices. Traditional dishes include:

1. Sohan Halwa: Perhaps the most famous sweet from Multan, this dense, chewy dessert made from milk, sugar, ghee, and dry fruits is a must-try.
2. Multani Mutton Curry: Cooked slowly with yogurt and spices, this dish is served with naan or rice.
3. Cholay (Chickpeas) and Saag (Mustard Greens) are also commonly enjoyed with cornbread (makki ki roti).

The city’s food streets are lined with vendors offering kebabs, samosas, fried fish, and sweet desserts, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Challenges and Resilience

Like many ancient cities, Multan faces challenges such as urban crowding, pollution, and the need to preserve heritage sites. However, the city continues to adapt and grow. Community efforts to preserve historical architecture, promote tourism, and support artisans are helping maintain Multan’s unique identity.

Conclusion

Multan is a city where the past meets the present, where every street echoes with centuries of history, and where culture thrives in the warmth of its people. It is a city of devotion, creativity, and resilience—a timeless gem in the heart of Punjab.

For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Pakistan’s heritage, a walk through Multan is a journey into the soul of the subcontinent. From its ancient shrines and vibrant bazaars to its handcrafted treasures and rich traditions, Multan is more than a city—it is an experience.