Manghopir; A Potential Tourist Attraction of Pakistan
Published by Located in the hilly tracts of Kirthar range, at about 16 Kilo Meters to the west of Karachi, the suburban, Manghopir, is known on account of its natural hot water springs. It is also a sanctuary of crocodiles, and a site of remains of a few 16-17 th century, carved Yellowstone graves. Most importantly however, Manghopir is known on account of the shrine of ‘Manghopir, a muslim mystic.
Both Hindus and Muslims are devotees of this shrine. As a popular belief, a Hindu bandit, Mangho or Manga, intended to loot the well known Muslim saint, Baba Fareedududdin Ganj-i-shakar, while he was temporarily staying at these hills on his way to Mecca for pilgrimage. Inspired by his character and teachings, Manga, quit his profession and converted as his disciple. Afterwards he earned a status of a pious holy man of such a stature that fetches him devotees from far and wide till today.
The shrine is built on a raised platform and is of central importance to the inhabitants of the area, particularly, Sheedis. They are also known as Makranis and believed to have African origin as indicated by their Negro traits, like typical African color, curly hair and thick lips. A festival known as “Sheedi Mela” is conducted every year in the Islamic month of Rabi-ul-Awwal and people from all over Sind come here to celebrate. The shrine is routinely visited by many Muslim and Hindu devotees who lay wreaths on the grave and Sheedis offer lamb, mutton or poultry meat to the Crocodiles of the shrine to fulfill their pledges.
Just near the footsteps of the shrine are two clusters of, Chaukhundi (Four-Cornered or rectangular), graves each comprising of three graves. One is still fairly intact while the other cluster is nearly destroyed.These isolated graves are made in Yellowstone and carved so dexterously and artistically that no one can leave the spot without being impressed from the intricate carvings reflecting the grandeur of the past Sind civilization.
Within a periphery of about one kilometer, are a few natural hot water springs. Kirthar range lies in the seismic belt and contains limestone which may probably explain the existence of these springs. Temperature of water in these springs varies from about 40 to 50 celcius and contains carbon dioxide in addition to traces of sulphur.It is on this account that these springs are used for balneotherapy particularly their hot water is believed to cure skin diseases and asthma. Now a days these springs have been transformed into sort of water tanks serving as pools for bathing and the water is provided through purpose made servo tanks fitted with pipes and taps. Provided with non-absorbent tiles though, the flooring and general environment of these pools are unhygienic. This is on account of apparent lack of Interest and awareness on the part of stake holders.
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On July 30, 2012 at 5:44 pm
Interest, like information, thank for share article