Diverse Dreams

The arts have played a pivotal role in human history and cultural development, serving as a powerful means of expression, communication, and preservation of cultural heritage. Throughout history, art has remained a vital tool for documenting historical events, conveying mythological and religious narratives, and embodying cultural values and traditions. Such initiatives provide a window into the past, offering insights into the social, political, and spiritual contexts of historical eras. Moreover, art has been instrumental in shaping cultural identity, fostering creativity and innovation, and promoting cross-cultural understanding and exchange. Gilgit-Baltistan, a region rich in cultural heritage, boasts numerous historical monuments, including forts, mosques, and old houses, which attract local and international tourists. Notably, the Aga Khan Cultural Services Pakistan (AKCSP) and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) have set a commendable example by restoring the historical forts ...

This historical narrative covers the rich and complex period of Hunza State, starting from the arrival of the first settlers to the Anglo-Brusho War. With minute details, Haji Qudrat ullah Beg weaves together a number of fascinating events, figures, and cultural practices, providing a thorough understanding of the region's evolution. The book commences with the exciting story of the first settlers, including Shaano, Safar, Mamoo, Fulolu, and Mughal Titam. The author highlights the reign of King Alexander Zulqarnain, also known as Alexander the Great, who is said to have visited the region. Then Raeesay Dynasty takes center stage, with notable figures such as Diram Harai-diramiting, Saffar Harai Kuhrukutz, Shanokutuz-Barataling, and Fulolokutuz-GanishKutuz. The dynasty's history is marked by bringing together the stories of power struggles, alliances and conflicts with neighboring regions. The Azur Jamsheed Dynasty, also known as the Shamsher Dynasty, is explored in depth. The c...

Mushfiq Yi Danishwar Tu Tamseel Yi Daftar tu Aalimath, Yi Kirdor Tu Khalifa Yi Amaldor Tu Khikwor Zikay Yi Damdor Tu Xindaghvey Yi Khundor Tu Raboyivey Yi Jhalldor Tu Jigarwar Ya Yi Doshthdor Tu (L) Asmat Ullah Mushfiq 1933-2024 Olimishth Yovey Sati Tu,  Khu Kas vey Sumachi Tu, Ya ilm e kharidor Tu, Khu Mulkey Zemidor Tu Shoyeer Tu, Mijovir tu  Shar Gashta Musofir Tu Dishner Ya Bi Qaror tu  Dilsoz Yi Nangbardor tu Sharif Yovey Kalomisth Spo Ziker Yi Pundor tu Sakep ney Yovey Rumshen  Ya Khikworey Seghendor tu

The craftsman /artisans played a vital role in the socio-economic and cultural development of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). It reflects from the construction of various forts, clothing , artifacts, utensils, music instruments and defence related weapons. As, it is pertinent that there are many forts and palaces in Gilgit-Baltistan, it is proudly mentioned that GB is home to many historical forts, such as Kharpocho fort Skardu, Altit fort Hunza, Shigar fort, Baltit fort Hunza, Khaplu Palace, Chilas fort, Gupis fort, Gahkuch fort, Dorkhand fort in Yasin, Ghizer. Altit Fort Hunza Photo by Zia Khan Ghulkin   With the passage of time some of these forts turned into dialapted condition and only their ruins are visible today while few were renovated by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) and Aga Khan Cultural Services Pakistan (AKCSP) contributing in socio-economic development and promotion of cultural trousim in the region. Furthermore it is worth to mention that in the early and medieval age...

It is propitious that the Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) government's responsible figures are visiting various areas to monitor institutional progress. They have met communities, seeking their feedback to monitor governance, and management. They had tried to gather insights for future improvements in different sectors.  I would like to share my reflections, in connection to my experiences, and offer suggestions for better institutional approach in future. This approach should prioritize socio-political and socio-economic development through active community involvement for success. Besides, my personal and professional life, I have been enthusiastic about the power of community participation. My involvement in social activities began in childhood, and I remained an active member of the village-based Boy Scouts Group from 1983 to 1991.  Later, I worked in diversified village-based organizations, local, regional, and national level voluntary institutions in various positions. This experi...