Faisal Abad

 

Faisalabad's history began in 1904 as Lyallpur district, previously a tehsil within Jhang district. Its development was significantly influenced by Rai Bahadur Bhunidas Sikka. Under British rule, the city was named Lyallpur, honoring Sir James Broadwood Lyall, the Lieutenant Governor of Punjab. Following Pakistan's independence, the city was renamed Faisalabad, recognizing King Faisal of Saudi Arabia's close relationship with Pakistan.

The partition of India and Pakistan in August 1947, a pivotal moment in South Asian history, resulted from the Pakistan Movement's push for a separate Muslim homeland. The British government's decision to divide British India into two independent nations—Pakistan, with a Muslim majority, and India, with a Hindu majority—led to widespread displacement. An estimated 10 million people were affected by this mass migration, considered one of the largest in recorded history. The partition also involved dividing the province of Bengal into East Pakistan (later Bangladesh) and West Bengal (India), and Punjab into Pakistani Punjab and Indian Punjab. The division extended to the British Indian Army, civil services, treasury, and railways. Tragically, the partition was accompanied by significant violence, resulting in an estimated one million deaths, particularly in Punjab. Lyallpur, located in what became West Pakistan, saw a large-scale exodus of its Hindu and Sikh populations to India, while Muslim refugees from India settled in the area.

In 1977, the Pakistani government officially adopted the name Faisalabad. The 1980s marked a period of economic growth for the city, fueled by foreign investment and increasing remittances from Faisalabadis working abroad. These financial inflows contributed to the city's development. In 1985, Faisalabad was elevated to divisional status, incorporating the districts of Faisalabad, Jhang, and Toba Tek Singh.

Punjab's vibrant culture is expressed through a variety of festivals, encompassing arts and crafts, music, local traditions, and religious celebrations. Faisalabad observes Pakistan's Independence Day on August 14 with patriotic fervor. Flag-raising ceremonies take place at the Clock Tower in the Commissioner's Office compound, bazaars are festively decorated, buildings are illuminated, and similar events are held throughout the district. Spring brings the "Rang Bihar" festival, where the Parks and Horticulture Authority showcases floral displays and exhibitions at Jinnah Gardens. The University of Agriculture hosts its own spring festival, the "Kisan Mela," which includes kite flying, despite a general ban on the activity. The provincial government's "Canal Festival" features a five-day celebration with decorated floats, lights, and a concluding musical concert along the city's main canal.

As a predominantly Muslim city, Faisalabad observes the Islamic holy months of Ramadan and Muharram. The festivals of Chand Raat, Eid-ul-Fitr, and Eid-ul-Adha are celebrated as national holidays. Eid Milad-un-Nabi, the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, is also a significant religious occasion. Numerous shrines in the area attract devotees during their annual Urs celebrations. Faisalabad also has Christian churches, which hold services for Easter and Christmas.