Hyderabad, situated in the Sindh province of Pakistan, serves as the city and capital of Hyderabad Division. It stands as the second-largest city in Sindh and the eighth largest in the country. Established in 1768 by Mian Ghulam Shah Kalhoro of the Kalhora Dynasty, Hyderabad flourished as a provincial capital until the British shifted the capital to the Bombay presidency in 1847. Located approximately 150 kilometers (93 mi) inland from Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, Hyderabad enjoys direct connectivity via railway and motorway networks.
Throughout history, Hyderabad played a pivotal role, serving as the capital of Sindh province from 1947 to 1955. The Partition of British India saw the mass migration of much of the city’s Hindu population. However, unlike the widespread rioting witnessed in Punjab and Bengal, Hyderabad remained relatively peaceful, with Sindhi Muslims largely resisting calls to turn against their Hindu neighbors. Despite this, the fear instilled by local riots in Karachi on January 6, 1948, prompted many Hindus to flee Hyderabad en masse.
Despite these historical challenges, Hyderabad continues to thrive as a vibrant center of culture, commerce, and heritage. Its rich tapestry of traditions, historical landmarks, and bustling markets attract visitors from far and wide. As a symbol of resilience and unity, Hyderabad stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its people amidst changing times and challenges.
