The Role of Muslim Dynasties in the History of the Subcontinent
The following dynasties played a major role in bringing Islam to the Indian subcontinent:
- Ghaznavid Dynasty
- Ghorid Dynasty
- Mamluk (Slave) Dynasty
- Khilji Dynasty
- Tughlaq Dynasty
- Sayyid Dynasty
- Lodi Dynasty
- Mughal Dynasty
These were the powers that established Muslim rule in the subcontinent. They introduced Islamic civilization, culture, law, and social order. According to this perspective, they built mosques, stopped violence against Muslim women, and ended systems where Muslims were oppressed. It is believed that before Muslim rule, Hindu and Sikh rulers committed injustices, and local populations did not resist strongly enough to protect their women and honor.
Most of these Muslim rulers did not belong to the local ethnic groups of Punjab or Sindh. Some came from Afghanistan, some from Central Asia (Turks), some from Iran, and others from Arab lands. Because many of them were Afghans—like Mahmud of Ghazni, the Ghorids, and the Lodhis—some Punjabi elites refuse to accept them as their heroes. Instead, they glorify figures like Ranjit Singh, even though he was not Muslim.
This raises an important question: why are Muslim rulers constantly portrayed negatively, while non-Muslim rulers are celebrated?
Historical Narrative and Media Bias
In Pakistan, this history is rarely taught properly. Very few films are made about Muslim rulers, and their contributions are often ignored or downplayed. This is done, according to this view, to keep divisions and misunderstandings alive.
On the other hand, India continuously produces films and stories glorifying Hindu and Sikh kings, while portraying Muslim rulers as cruel and oppressive. Pakistani Muslims often remain silent because many of them do not know their own history well enough to respond.
The struggles, sacrifices, and achievements of Muslims in the subcontinent are rarely presented with pride. Instead, there is a rush to appear “liberal,” even if it means disconnecting from historical identity.
Kashmir and Forgotten Contributions
Another ignored fact is the role of Pashtuns in the liberation of Azad Kashmir. It is argued that local Kashmiris and Pashtun fighters played the decisive role, while the army initially discouraged Jinnah from engaging in war. After Kashmir was partially liberated, borders were drawn, and credit was claimed later.
Yet, this history is also not taught openly.
Identity: Beyond Provincial Pride
Being Punjabi alone is not a great achievement. Being Muslim and Pakistani should be the real source of pride. Pakistan is not only Punjab, nor is Punjab the sole force running the country.
This belief—that Punjab controls Pakistan—is described as a false narrative spread by older elites. In reality:
- Electricity comes from Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
- Gas comes from Balochistan
- Water comes from Sindh and KP
- Sindh contributes heavily in taxes
- Major industries and seaports are in Sindh
- Food and grain supplies also come from these regions
Pakistan functions because of all its provinces, not just one.
Political Culture and Moral Decline
The article criticizes a political culture—especially associated with certain parties—where personal attacks, character assassination, and disrespect toward women became common. Examples include abusive language against female leaders and harassment allegations that were never properly addressed.
According to this view, such behavior reflects moral decline rather than strength or honor.
Conclusion
True pride should not come from ethnic superiority or provincial arrogance. It should come from shared faith, shared struggle, and shared nationhood. Ignoring history, insulting others, and glorifying power without morality only weakens society.
A nation grows strong when it knows its history, respects its values, and treats all its people with dignity.
