Panhwar (Sindhi: پنھور) is a Sindhi Sammat tribe found in Sindh, Pakistan.[1][2] The present chief of the tribe is Mir Changez Khan Panhwar.[3] In Sindhi folklore, the Panhwar tribe is mentioned in Sur Umar Marui of Shah Jo Risalo.[4] The Panhwars had previously ruled Khudabad before the Kalhora conquered it.[5][6][1] Panhwar literally means "herder of sheep and goat".[2]

Panhwar
پنھور
Regions with significant populations
Pakistan
Languages
Sindhi
Religion
Islam
Related ethnic groups
Sindhi people

Clans edit

Achhra, Abani, Badri, Barria, Bātra, Bochri, Boraka, Bhar, Balai, Balani, Bagrani, Bandani, Bhanbhanpotra, Boolani, Chadi, Chanhani, Dodani, Dutar, Derweshani, Esani, Gābarkalani, Garglani, Heera, Heesbani, Kaka, Kānro, Kar'ra, Kārera, Kanobrani, Kamalani, Kārani, Kathra, Khoch, Ladhani, Langani, Māhiya, Māliya, Malucha/Maluja, Mamāni, Norri, Sayedani, Shaikh Panhwar, Thhori, Talbani, Umrani.[7]

Notable Village (Goth Jarro Panhwar) edit

One of the notable villages within the Panhwar clan is Goth Jarro Panhwar, situated near the town of Husri in the Sindh province of Pakistan. It is inhabited exclusively by members of the Panhwar caste, with a population exceeding 400 individuals. The village has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its traditions, economic activities, and strong community bonds.

History and Heritage edit

Goth Jarro Panhwar predates its neighboring town, Husri, giving it a distinguished historical significance that spans centuries. The village's origins are deeply rooted in the Panhwar caste, with ancestral ties and traditions passed down through generations. Its heritage is evident in various aspects of village life, including language, customs, and social practices.

Community and Infrastructure edit

Despite its smaller size compared to neighboring towns, Goth Jarro Panhwar boasts essential infrastructure to support its residents' daily lives. The village is home to two schools, the Government Boys Lower Secondary School and Girls Lower Secondary School , demonstrating its commitment to education and youth development. Additionally, two mosques, Masjid Goth Jarro Panhwar, and Masjid Abu Bakr Siddique, serve as spiritual centers for residents to gather, pray, and engage in communal activities.

Most gatherings between men and outside guests occur in Otaks, the traditional gathering spaces of the heads of the various families. These spaces serve as hubs for social interaction, discussions, and hospitality, allowing residents to connect and maintain strong community ties.

Cultural Identity edit

All residents of Goth Jarro Panhwar speak Sindhi, which reinforces the village's cultural identity. Language serves as a unifying force, connecting community members and preserving traditional values and heritage. Festivals, ceremonies, and other cultural events are integral to village life, providing opportunities for celebration and collective expression.

Challenges and Opportunities edit

Despite its rich history and cultural vibrancy, Goth Jarro Panhwar faces significant challenges, primarily stemming from inadequate infrastructure and limited government attention. The absence of essential amenities such as a gas pipeline and proper road networks hinders the village's development and economic progress. However, with concerted efforts from both local authorities and community members, there are opportunities to overcome these obstacles and unlock the village's full potential.

Notable people edit

Notable people bearing the surname Panhwar, who may or may not be associated with the tribe, include:

References edit

  1. ^ a b 1998 District Census Report of Dadu. Population Census Organization Statistics Division, Government of Pakistan. 1998. p. 8.
  2. ^ a b Buriro Sewhani, Khair Mohammad (2005). Encyclopaedia of Tribes (in Sindhi). pp. 219–220.
  3. ^ "New chieftain of Panhwar community installed". DAWN.COM. 28 August 2023.
  4. ^ al-Laṭīf Shah, ʻAbd (2018). Risalo. Harvard University Press. ISBN 978-0-674-97504-0.
  5. ^ Panhwar, M. H. (1977). Source Material on Sind. Institute of Sindhology, University of Sind. p. 492.
  6. ^ Journal of the Pakistan Historical Society Volume 51, Issues 3-4. 2003. p. 107.
  7. ^ Khair Mohammad Buriro Sewhani (2005). ذاتين جي انسائيڪلوپيڊيا (in Sindhi). p. 220.
  8. ^ "Six thousands years of irrigation history in Sindh". DAWN.COM. 9 July 2012.
  9. ^ "Provincial Assembly of Sindh - Member Profile". www.pas.gov.pk.
  10. ^ "High Court of Sindh - Salahuddin Panhwar". sindhhighcourt.gov.pk.