As Pakistan gears up to celebrate its 77th Independence Day, the historic Balahisar Fort in Peshawar stands resplendent, draped in the vibrant white and green colors of the national flag. This transformation of the ancient fort, marking the run-up to the national holiday on August 14, has captivated the hearts and minds of citizens, embodying the nation’s rich heritage and proud history.
For many, including young Anaya Ali, a fourth-grade student from Nowshera, witnessing Balahisar Fort adorned in the national colors is more than just a visual spectacle; it is the fulfillment of a dream. “Seeing Balahisar Fort was my childhood dream that was fulfilled today by my Papa. I am so thankful to him,” Anaya shared with APP, her eyes brimming with excitement.
Balahisar Fort, a silent witness to Pakistan’s heroic struggle for independence, now proudly displays the national flag atop its ancient walls. The fort’s transformation into a symbol of national pride serves as a poignant reminder of its significance in Pakistan’s history.
Dressed in traditional national attire, Anaya, accompanied by her father, joined numerous other citizens who gathered to witness the fort’s majestic display. “I am extremely happy to see the national flag hoisted on top of the ancient fort on our country’s Independence Day,” Anaya added, reflecting the joy and pride shared by many who visited the site.
Balahisar Fort’s history is as old as the city of Peshawar itself, dating back nearly 3,000 years. According to Bakhtzada Muhammad, a senior research officer with the Archaeology and Museum Department, the fort has always held strategic importance due to Peshawar’s geographical location as a gateway to the subcontinent. Invaders and rulers from various dynasties, including the Afghans, Mughals, Sikhs, and British, recognized its value and used it as a stronghold to establish their power and safeguard their people.
Spanning over an area of 15.4 acres, the fort’s imposing red brick walls, standing 92 feet high, remind visitors of the rulers who once resided within its confines before marching into the subcontinent to secure geopolitical strength and trade advantages. The fort’s main entrance faces the GT road, linking Peshawar with Afghanistan and Central Asia to the west and extending towards regions like Pushkalavati (Charsadda), Hund, and Taxila.
Renowned historian Dr. A.H. Dani, in his book “Peshawar-Historic City of Frontier,” mentions that when the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang visited Peshawar in 630 AD, he referred to a “royal residence” believed to be Balahisar Fort. Over the centuries, the fort has been associated with many significant figures in history, including Mehmud Ghaznavi, Raja Jaipal of the Hindushahi dynasty, and Mughal emperor Zaheeruddin Babar, who is credited with redesigning and rebuilding the fort in 1526.
Throughout its long history, Balahisar Fort has seen various rulers, from the Afghans and Mughals to the Sikhs and British. It was used by Maharaja Ranjeet Singh during Sikh rule and later served as the winter camp for Afghan Durrani rulers. The British, after annexing the region in 1849, reconstructed the fort with red bricks and used it as a military base.
Today, Balahisar Fort remains a center of attraction for both local and foreign tourists, offering a rare glimpse into the architectural grandeur and historical significance of the region. The fort also holds the honor of being one of the first places to hoist Pakistan’s national flag on August 14, 1947, symbolizing the birth of the nation.
As Pakistan prepares for its 77th Independence Day celebrations, Balahisar Fort stands tall as a symbol of national pride, reflecting the enduring spirit of Pakistan’s independence movement and the resilience of its people.
Afsheen Gohar believes in the power of clear, straightforward writing. Her blog posts tackle everyday topics with relatable insights and easy-to-follow advice. With a conversational style, she makes complex subjects feel understandable. She’s dedicated to sharing knowledge and empowering readers to take action. Find her latest posts on trending in social.
