Wednesday, 29 May 2024

Malakhro: The Heartbeat of the Muslim Community and a Testament to Strength, Skill, and Spirit

In the vibrant tapestry of the Muslim community, one tradition stands out, pulsating with energy and enthusiasm - Malakhro.ملاکھڑا ,ملھ, ملاکڙو  This form of wrestling is not merely a sport; it is a cultural cornerstone that resonates deeply within the community, particularly among its mature members.
Malakhro, a cherished tradition, comes to life during festive occasions and every Friday, infusing local fairs with a unique allure. It’s not just a game; it’s a spectacle that captivates the audience, a celebration of strength, skill, and spirit that transcends the physical contest.
Wealthy landowners and influential individuals take immense pride in fostering renowned ‘malhs’ or wrestlers. They arrange matches that become the centrepiece of these events, drawing crowds and creating moments of shared joy and excitement. These matches are not just about winning or losing; they are about honour, respect, and the enduring spirit of the community.
Malakhro is more than a pastime; it’s a testament to the power, prowess, and passion of the wrestlers and the community that supports them. It’s a symbol of the community’s resilience, a testament to their strength, and a reflection of their spirit.
This sport, deeply rooted in tradition and community values, continues to thrive, capturing the heartbeat of the Muslim community. It’s a testament to the community’s strength, skill, and spirit, a tradition that continues to inspire and unite. Malakhro is not just a sport; it’s the pulse of the community, a testament to their enduring spirit.
Malakhro: A Pulse of the Muslim Community and a Symbol of Power, Prowess, and Passion

Malakhro, a form of wrestling, is a vibrant tradition in the Muslim community. More than a sport, it’s a cultural cornerstone that resonates deeply within the community. Wealthy landowners and influential individuals take pride in fostering renowned ‘malhs’ or wrestlers, arranging matches that become the centerpiece of local events. Malakhro is a testament to the power, prowess, and passion of the wrestlers and the community that supports them. It’s a symbol of the community’s resilience and a reflection of their spirit. This sport, deeply rooted in tradition, captures the heartbeat of the Muslim community, uniting and inspiring them. Malakhro is not just a sport; it’s the pulse of the community.

#Malakhro #MuslimCommunity #CulturalTradition #StrengthAndSkill #WrestlingSpirit #LocalFairs #FridayFights #Malhs #CommunityPride #EnduringSpirit

Revealing the Enchantment of Rural Sports: The Exhilaration of Kodi Kodi

Nestled within the heart of rural communities, a unique game known as Kodi Kodi ڪوڊي- ڪوڊي In Sindhi and Urdu کوڈی-کوڑی brings an infusion of delight and exhilaration to the villagers. This open-air game, conducted in the expansive fields, is a reflection of the unpretentiousness and camaraderie inherent in rural life.
The playing field for Kodi Kodi is distinguished by two posts, termed as ‘palas’, adorned with strips of vibrant red fabric. These posts are strategically placed 25-30 yards apart. The game initiates with a player from one team endeavoring to traverse through the palas while incessantly uttering the term ‘Kodi-Kodi’, all within a single breath.
The objective for the offensive player is to make contact with an opponent and retreat to his side without drawing another breath. Achieving this feat awards his team a point. On the other hand, if the attacker is captured or draws a breath during the attack, the opposing team is granted a point. The team amassing the highest score by the conclusion of the game is proclaimed the winner.
Kodi Kodi surpasses the confines of a mere game; it’s a celebration of communal unity and rural traditions. It doesn’t require expensive equipment or intricate setup, rendering it accessible to every villager. The game not only serves as a source of entertainment but also fosters physical health and strategic thinking.

سندھ، پاکستان میں گاؤں کے لوگ کوڈی کوڑی کھیلتے ہوئے، ایک روایتی کھلا ہوا کھیل جو برادری کی اتحاد اور جسمانی صحت کو فروغ دیتا ہے۔

Kodi Kodi, a unique game from rural communities, brings joy and excitement to villagers. Played in open fields, it reflects the simplicity and camaraderie of rural life. The game field is marked by two ‘palas’ posts, adorned with red fabric, placed 25-30 yards apart. Players traverse between the posts, uttering ‘Kodi-Kodi’ in one breath. The aim is to tag an opponent and return without inhaling again. If successful, the player’s team scores a point. If the player is caught or inhales during the attack, the opposing team scores. The team with the highest score wins. Kodi Kodi, more than a game, celebrates community spirit and rural traditions. It’s accessible, entertaining, and promotes physical fitness and strategic thinking.


#TraditionalGames #RuralSindh #KodiKodi #CommunityGames #RuralSports

Cock, Partridge, and Quail-Fighting: A Cherished Pastime in the Region

Among the region’s most adored forms of entertainment, bird-fighting holds a significant place. In particular, cock, partridge, and quail-fighting are immensely popular. Sindh is renowned for breeding majestic cocks, known for their stubborn resilience in the face of battle. These birds are among the most formidable fighters in the avian world.
Grey partridges, captured at a young age, are nurtured to become astonishingly tame. If they prove to be champion fighters, their value increases exponentially. Bird-fighting is not just about the thrill of the fight; it’s also about the potential financial gain, making it an even more enticing spectacle.
Despite the illegal status of gambling associated with these bird fights, it’s an activity that continues to be passionately pursued. This adds another layer of excitement to the already captivating spectacle of bird-fighting. However, it’s important to note that responsible enjoyment of this tradition is encouraged, keeping in mind the welfare of these magnificent creatures.
Bird owners preparing their birds for a fight in Sindh

Responsible enjoyment of bird-fighting tradition in Sindh

An engaging spectacle of bird-fighting featuring cocks, partridges, and quails, a cherished pastime in the region. The image captures the intensity of the battle among these majestic birds, bred and nurtured in Sindh. The thrill of the fight and the potential financial gain make this a captivating event, despite the illegal status of associated gambling. The image underscores the importance of responsible enjoyment of this tradition, with the welfare of these magnificent creatures in mind.

#BirdFighting #SindhTraditions #CockFighting #PartridgeFighting #QuailFighting #CulturalHeritage #PakistanCulture #AnimalWelfare #ResponsibleEnjoyment

Gillidanda: A Timeless Game with a Global Presence

Gillidanda, گلی ڈنڈا۔ a traditional sport with roots in South Asia, remains popular in the region and has even spread to areas such as the Mediterranean and South East Asia. It's intriguing to discover that Gillidanda is considered a forerunner to cricket in India.

The game is played with two sticks: the larger 'danda', and the smaller 'gilli'. Gillidanda shares common elements with bat and ball sports like cricket and baseball. With a history dating back over 2500 years, Gillidanda is indeed an ancient sport.

What's interesting is that Gillidanda goes by various names in different regions. It's known as 'Tipcat' in English, 'Iti-Dakar اٽي ڏڪر' in Sindhi, and 'guli-badi' in Odia. It's also recognized by different names in languages such as Bhojpuri, Persian, Bengali, Assamese, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Konkani, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, Saraiki, Pashto, Cambodian, Indonesian, Tagalog, Ilonggo, Turkish, Zomi language, Vietnamese, Cuban, and Italian.

The game ‘Gillidanda’ originates from the word ‘ghaṭikā’, meaning ‘tip-cat’. This traditional sport continues to be popular in the Indian subcontinent and other South Asian nations such as India and Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, the game is known as ‘ḍāṅguli khelā’, while in Nepal, it’s referred to as ‘Dandi-Biyo’.

Gillidanda is more than just a recreational activity; it also helps develop physical agility and coordination among players. The game involves four or more players in even numbers. The player stands in a small circle and balances the gilli on a stone in an inclined manner, similar to a see-saw, with one end of the gilli touching the ground while the other end is in the air.

In conclusion, Gillidanda is a classic game that has endured through the ages. Its cultural importance and the physical agility it fosters among players make it a beloved sport in many parts of the world.

A visual representation of the traditional game known as ‘Tipcat’ in English, ‘Iti-Dakar اٽي ڏڪر’ in Sindhi, and ‘guli-badi’ in Odia. This game is recognized by different names across various languages and cultures.

#ItiDakar #Gillidanda #TraditionalSports #CulturalHeritage #GlobalGames #PhysicalAgility #Tipcat #GuliBadi #AncientSport #CricketForerunner

Muhammad al-Mahdi’s Birthday and Shab-e-Barat: A Night of Spiritual Reflection

Shab-e-Barat: The Night of Absolution and Its Impact on the Muslim Ummah

 Greetings to the nation and the Muslim Ummah on the auspicious occasion of Shab-e-Barat (شب برات). This sacred night, also referred to as Bara’at Night, Mid Shaban, The Night of Records, The Night of Fortune and Forgiveness, is celebrated on the 14th night of Sha’aban, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar. 

Shab e-Barat, or the Night of Absolution, is a significant festival in the Islamic tradition. On this night, Muslims across the globe seek forgiveness for their past transgressions from Allah, the Most Merciful. It is believed that on this night, Allah determines the fate of all individuals for the upcoming year, considering their past actions.

Furthermore, the 14th of Sha’aban holds special significance for Twelver Shia Muslims as they commemorate it as the birthday of Muhammad al-Mahdi, who is revered as the ultimate redeemer of humankind.

#ShabeBarat #NightOfAbsolution #IslamicTradition #NightOfForgiveness #MuhammadAlMahdi #MuslimUmmah #IslamicFestival #Shaaban14 #NightOfRecords #NightOfFortune

Monday, 8 April 2024

Modern Banditry: The High-Tech Arsenal of Today’s Robbers

 THE DACOITS OF SINDH: A TALE OF KACHY K DAKO

Illustration of Kache k daku with prominently displayed Sindhi ajrak topi, kidnapping people by the Indus River Islands.

At the core of Sindh, a region renowned for its storied past and effervescent culture, a narrative endures that has been shared in hushed tones for ages. It's the chronicle of the Urdu : 'Kachy k Dako, کچی کے ڈاکو' Sindhi: ‘Kachey Ja darail ڪچي جا ڌاڙيل‘  a term that brings to mind the image of intrepid bandits and their audacious feats within the broad, relentless expanse of the territory. Embedded in the heart of the spirited province of Sindh, known for its historical depth and cultural vitality, there thrives a fable that has traversed through generations. This is the epic of 'Kache ja darail,' a term in Sindhi that paints a picture of valiant outlaws and their adventurous exploits over the wide, demanding landscapes of the locale.

     The lore of Sindh's dacoits, more than mere outlaws, is woven into the region's folklore. Viewed as dissenters challenging a flawed system, their tales brim with high-stakes pursuits, suspenseful abductions for ransom, and sporadic gestures of benevolence that stir the conscience of the community. These narratives, rich in action and moral complexity, have become an integral part of the province's cultural tapestry.

     The 'Kachy k Dako' are known to conduct their operations within the 'kacha' zones dense riverine woodlands along the Indus River, serving as an ideal hideout for their deeds. The challenging terrain of these areas provides a strategic edge to the bandits, complicating the efforts of law enforcement. Stories of their daring acts blend intimidation with allure, as they persistently dodge apprehension, ascending to legendary status.

     The infamous 'Kachy k Dako' of Sindh mirror the region's socio-economic challenges. Driven by poverty, limited educational opportunities, and job scarcity, individuals are compelled to adopt this perilous lifestyle a cycle of subsistence that frequently originates where other options are scarce.

     As dusk descends upon the Indus, the murmurs of 'Kachy k Dako' resonate. They stand as a testament to the intricate facets of the human condition and the delicate balance of morality. Their imprint lingers in Sindh's historical chronicles, weaving a story that is as enthralling as it is debated.

The Digital Footprint of Crime: Social Media as the New Platform for Criminals
     In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, the criminal underworld is not far behind in harnessing cutting-edge tools. Law enforcement reports indicate a troubling shift: contemporary thieves are increasingly equipped with advanced gear, traditionally exclusive to military outfits. This trend underscores the escalating challenges faced by security forces in curbing high-tech criminal activities.

Advanced Surveillance: DJI's High-Tech Drones Elevate Operational Precision
     The arsenal of high-tech equipment now includes state-of-the-art drones from DJI, renowned for their precision and dual imaging features. Far from being simple playthings, these drones come loaded with functionalities that support intricate tasks. They boast high-definition thermal and visual cameras that can accurately focus on distant objectives, enhancing the capabilities of their operators in various operations.

Airborne Arsenal: The Alarming Trend of Anti-Aircraft Artillery in Criminal Hands
     The criminal inventory extends beyond drones to include anti-aircraft artillery. These powerful weapons, capable of firing at steep trajectories, have alarmingly found their way into criminal possession. Originally intended for aerial defence, these guns pose a significant threat when wielded without authorization, highlighting the urgent need for vigilant security measures.

Escalating Threats: The Perilous Inclusion of Rocket Launchers in Criminal Arsenals
     The inclusion of rocket launchers in the criminal cache significantly escalates the level of danger. These devices, engineered to discharge propelled rockets, underscore the alarming destructive capabilities now accessible to lawbreakers. Their presence in the wrong hands is a sobering testament to the evolving nature of criminal armaments.

Social Media: The New Stage for Criminal Showcases and Law Enforcement Challenges
     In the digital age, criminals are increasingly turning to social media to showcase their illicit activities. Platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube are being used by offenders to broadcast videos of crimes, shootings, and demands. They don’t shy away from directing abuse at public figures, including police officers, politicians, and singers, often coupled with ransom demands. The evidence of these activities is abundant across various social media platforms, creating a new challenge for law enforcement agencies.

Voice Deception for Ransom: The Rising Threat of AI-Enabled Fraud
     In a startling development, a fraudster harnessed sophisticated voice-altering software to mimic the voice of a young individual, orchestrating a deceptive abduction plot. The criminal’s strategy was to trick the guardian into believing their offspring was in danger, prompting a ransom payment. This incident underscores the growing concern over the abuse of AI-powered voice simulation technologies, which are readily available on the internet.

Revealing the Armory: The Critical Demand for Enhanced Protection Strategies in Policing
     Court testimonies from police officers have unveiled a stark reality: the arsenal confronting law enforcement is formidable. This disclosure emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive strategies and sophisticated Défense mechanisms to protect society from these extensively armed foes.

     Content depicting gun violence is strictly prohibited across numerous platforms due to its violation of terms of service. Despite these restrictions, evidence of such content’s proliferation can be found across social media channels and television news segments, with numerous instances gaining rapid circulation within private messaging groups.

#kachykdako #crime

Sunday, 7 April 2024

Tracing the Evolution of Banking in Sukkur: From Bambi to NBP

Sukkur's banking history began with the establishment of Bambi Bank on January 27th, which later became known as the Imperial Bank of India. Initially operating from a leased property owned by Saith Memon near the SSP residence and the former Powerhouse, the bank eventually relocated across from St. Mary’s High School into a modest limestone-plastered building. President location is Wapda Customer’s care

Illustration of Sukkur’s banking evolution, featuring iconic buildings and symbols representing the transition from Bambi Bank to the National Bank of Pakistan

Illustration of Sukkur’s banking evolution, featuring iconic buildings and symbols representing the transition from Bambi Bank to the National Bank of Pakistan

During the British Raj, an attempted heist involving a tunnel dug towards the bank was foiled, and the culprits were apprehended. Following the partition, the institution was rebranded as the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP)National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), which was officially formed in 1949. In recent decades, a new, elegant edifice for the NBP was constructed at the same location, housing the main branch on the ground floor and the State Bank of PakistanState Bank of Pakistan on the upper level.

Prior to Pakistan's independence, Sukkur was home to several other banks. The Arabian Cooperative Bank was founded in 1921 opposite Lux Park, while the Punjab National Bank and the Central Bank both opened their doors in 1935 along Bandar Road. The Sindh Provisional Cooperative Bank Ltd started operations in 1938 on Frere Road. These institutions, along with the local branch of the Imperial Bank of India, which had connections to John Maynard Keynes' work on Indian currency and finance, have since ceased operations or been closed.

  1. Sukkur banking evolution
  2. Historical banks of Sukkur
  3. Bambi Bank history
  4. Imperial Bank of India Sukkur
  5. National Bank of Pakistan inception
  6. British Raj bank heist Sukkur
  7. Sukkur’s pre-partition financial institutions
  8. Arabian Cooperative Bank 1921
  9. Punjab National Bank Sukkur
  10. Central Bank Bandar Road
  11. Sindh Provisional Cooperative Bank Ltd
  12. Imperial Bank currency finance
  13. John Maynard Keynes banking
  14. Banking sector transformation Sukkur
  15. NBP new building Sukkur

The Black Francolin: Sindh's State Bird and Its Fascinating World

Specifics about Black Francolin Partridges Scientific Name: Francolinus francolinus Local Names Sindhi: Karo Tittar Urdu: Kala Titer The Bl...