Analytical Study of the Book Tawareekh-e-Zila Dera Ghazi Khan and its Significance in the Historiography of Dera Ghazi Khan

Abstract

The work on the regional history is considered remarkable in the initial historiography of Colonial period in Indo-Pak Subcontinent. With British diplomats the officials also expressed their interest in historiography during their official duties in different areas. As M. S. Elphinstone, Potinger, Hattu Tam, Hukam Chand and Munshi Charn Cheet contributed through their historiography. This paper is an analytical study of the famous book Tawareekh-e-Zila Dera Ghazi Khan authored by Munshi Hukam Chand who was an official in British Government. The book has historical significance as the book is remarkable and as it is considered among the primary document of the regional history of Dera Ghazi Khan especially it covers the Colonial era. Hukam Chand worked on this book and it was first published in 1876. Hukam Chand was basically an official in revenue record and he was an extra Magistrate at that time. The book is a deep study of the socio-cultural, geography of the region. The book covers the different aspects of the Dera Ghazi Khan i.e. religion, culture, and civilization. Therefore, this paper is an analytical study of the book and it explores and evaluates the condition of the district during the colonial era.