At the heart of Khairpur District in the Sindh province lies a land packed with historical, cultural and traditional significance. Formally named Gambat, the city has its roots reaching deep into the annals of times, with echoes of bygone eras evidenced in its architecture and people.
Over the years, the place earned a unique identity of its own, crediting its rich spiritual legacy and medically advanced present. In this blog, Graana.com will explore Gambat and discuss how the city came to be known as the land of healers.
The Geographical Significance of Gambat
One of the largest cities of Khairpur district, Gambat stands proud at an elevation of 52 meters (171ft) above sea level. This geographic positioning and its integral role in the Sindh province showcase this land as a central point in terms of natural beauty and administrative importance.
The city is 582 km of lush, fertile land adorned with green fields and fruitful orchards. Geographically, Gambat sits at a strategic position that allows excess to at least 6 airfields. This offers advanced accessibility and economic vitality.
Additionally, the city’s waterway, Canal Abul Wah, plays a huge role in sustaining the land’s agricultural prosperity. This flowing stream is an integral part of Gambat’s geographical identity. Now, the following is a table that will help you gain a better perspective of this land.
Exploring The Land of Healers | |
| Country | Pakistan |
| Province | Sindh |
| Division | Sukkur |
| District | Khairpur |
| Government | Municipal Committee |
| Population | 53, 354 (2017) |
| Area | 582 kms |
| Elevation | 52 m (171ft) |
| Postal Code Gambat | 66070 |
A Heritage of Spiritual Healers
Similar to all creative cities in Pakistan, Gambat has a colorful history. Over the years, the city has embraced diverse civilizations, traditions, and cultures. It is as if the very soil of this land absorbed the wisdom of ages, imbuing it with a unique consciousness.
Witnessing the ebb and flow of time, this place has transformed into a haven for diverse communities. From remnants of Mohenjodaro to Hindu settlements and, eventually, a thriving Muslim populace, the city resonates with collective wisdom, manifesting itself as a healing force.
Spiritual leaders like Pir Syed Mohammad Shah Gilani Baghdadi and Sachal Sarmast have emerged from this mystical land, embodying roles as guides and healers. In the contemporary era, figures like Dr. Rahim Bux Bhatti seamlessly continue this legacy.
He employs the tool of medical science to extend a helping hand and foster healing within the community. Gambat stands not just as a city with a vibrant past but as a living entity, dynamically contributing to the perpetual cycle of growth and healing.
Historical and Architectural Landscape
When it comes to the top historical places in Pakistan, this city offers its fair share. Gambat has promised its fair share regarding historical places in Pakistan. The place beckons visitors with its architectural marvels, which stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time. Here are some significant places to look into
Sachal Sarmast Mazar
Sachal Sarmast, a revered 18th and 19th-century Sufi poet, finds eternal repose in the Sachal Sarmast Mazar. Situated 40 kilometres southwest of Khairpur, this shrine is a testament to Sachal Sarmast’s profound influence on Sindhi literature.
The Mazar exudes tranquillity, with its intricate architecture serving as a symbol of spiritual harmony. Pilgrims and poetry enthusiasts flock to this sacred site, fostering a connection to the mystic legacy of Sachal Sarmast.
Faiz Mahall
Constructed in 1798 by Mir Sohrab Khan, Faiz Mahal is a regal testament to the grandeur of Khairpur’s Talpur monarchs. Originally designed as a court for the royal palace complex, Faiz Mahal boasts opulent chambers, waiting rooms, and halls that echo tales of bygone eras.
Today, it serves as the residence of the last Talpur monarch, H.H. Mir Ali Murad Khan Talpur II. Faiz Mahal stands as a living relic, offering a glimpse into the architectural splendour of Khairpur’s historical rulers.
ShivaRam Mandir
The ShivaRam Mandir stands as a testament to the city’s rich tapestry of religious diversity. Situated in the middle of a bustling Sabzi Market and reminiscent of Mohenjodaro, this temple is a haven for Hindu worshipers.
Its architectural finesse reflects the intricate craftsmanship of a bygone era. The temple preserves Gambat’s cultural heritage and highlights the coexistence of different faiths within the city.
Pir Syed Mohammad Shah Gilani Baghdadi Mazar
Gambat is privileged to house the final resting place of Pir Syed Mohammad Shah Gilani Baghdadi. The Mazar, created through the government’s and locals’ collaborative efforts, stands as a sacred sanctuary.
The tranquillity surrounding the burial site mirrors the reverence with which Pir Syed Mohammad Shah Gilani Baghdadi is remembered. Pilgrims and devotees gather at this hallowed ground, seeking solace and spiritual connection.
Healers and Medical Heroes
With the recent expansion of educational institutes, the city has undergone a significant transformation. Establishing schools, hospitals, and medical colleges is shifting this landscape to break down barriers and provide opportunities for all, especially in healthcare.
Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS)
At the top of this educational renaissance stands the Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS), a beacon of hope for the local population. The journey of GIMS is nothing short of remarkable, evolving from a humble dispensary in 1934 to a Model Taluka Hospital in 1980.
The turning point came in 2003, when the honourable Governor of Sindh declared the transformation of Gambat THQ into the Pir Abdul Qadir Shah Jeelani Institute of Medical Sciences.
In 2005, GIMS set an ambitious path to strengthen its foundation and initiate a Medical College. Driven by the relentless efforts of Dr Rahim Bux Bhatti, the Medical Superintendent, the institute underwent a significant transformation.
The pinnacle of this journey was reached in 2011, when GIMS earned recognition as an Independent Degree Awarding Institute from the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan. GIMS stands as a testament to the commitment to academic excellence and integrity.
Establishing the Medical College at GIMS is crucial to the city’s educational journey. With a focus on comprehensive medical education, the college aspires to be a centre of excellence in healthcare sciences. The vision is to impart knowledge and groom students, instilling in them a sense of commitment, confidence, and dedication to their profession, society, and country.
The Citizens Foundation (TCF)
In the pursuit of higher education, Gambat is witnessing a transformation at the grassroots level. The Citizens Foundation (TCF), a non-profit organization established in 1995, plays a pivotal role in reshaping children’s destinies, especially those on the fringes of society.
TCF is bringing about a paradigm shift in Gambat, where poverty and illiteracy were once pervasive.TCF’s mission to eradicate class barriers aligns seamlessly with the vision for inclusive education. The school, run on a ‘pay as you can’ model, breaks down financial barriers, allowing children from the most marginalized communities to access quality education.
Pir Abdul Qadir Shah Jeelani Institute of Medical Sciences
Among the top universities and colleges in Pakistan, Pir Abdul Qadir Shah Jeelani Institute of Medical Sciences has emerged as a national-level health facility. It is providing quality treatment services to patients from all corners of the country. The institute has achieved significant milestones with a focus on liver, kidney, and bone marrow transplants, performing 750 liver and 200 kidney transplants in recent years.
Lung Transplant Facility
In a groundbreaking move, Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari inaugurated Pakistan’s first facility for lung transplants at GIMS. This milestone places Gambat on the map as a hub for advanced medical procedures, with plans for a medical city and pharmaceutical industry on the horizon. The institute’s dedication to cutting-edge medical services reflects the city’s unwavering commitment to healthcare excellence.
The Transition of Gambat
As Gambat embraced the tide of urbanization, distinct trends emerged, notably in the division into Naro and the fertile area. With its unique character, Naro became a focal point for urban development, witnessing the rise of infrastructure and community spaces. Simultaneously, the fertile enclaves surrounding Gambat became key players in the city’s expansion, contributing to its economic and agricultural prowess.
Economic Growth and Urban Flourishing
Gambat’s urbanization narrative intertwines with its economic growth. As the city evolved into a financial centre within the district, economic activities surged, fostering a symbiotic relationship between urban development and financial prosperity. The flourishing economic landscape became a catalyst for infrastructural enhancements, creating a conducive environment for both residents and businesses.
Gambat as a Financial Hub
The district’s economic heartbeat resonates from Gambat, which has emerged as a financial hub. The presence of national and private banks, including the National Bank of Pakistan, United Bank Limited, Sindh Bank, Muslim Commercial Bank, and others, underscores the city’s economic significance. Gambat Court, positioned at the city’s centre, symbolizes the nexus of financial activities, steering the district’s economic course.
Contributing to Economic Growth
Gambat’s role as a financial centre extends beyond banking institutions. The place has been a focus of Pakistan Petroleum Limited for ages, offering huge amounts of natural oil and gases. It is a place where commerce thrives, contributing to the economic growth of the district. The financial vibrancy is not confined to the present. Still, it draws inspiration from the city’s historical roots, making Gambat a resilient centre of economic activity.
Resistance Against Present Day Challenges
While Gambat has made significant strides in establishing medical facilities, healthcare disparities persist, and access to quality healthcare remains uneven. With rural areas experiencing challenges in medical outreach, the city’s healthcare infrastructure demands specialized services. Initiatives to address these disparities are underway, but the journey towards equitable healthcare provision is ongoing.
Recognizing the need to extend healthcare beyond city limits, Gambat is mobilizing initiatives to reach rural areas. Mobile medical units, community health programs, and awareness campaigns are being implemented to bridge the healthcare gap. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives faces challenges such as logistical constraints and the need for sustained community engagement.
Economic Dynamics
Since the 2022 floods, unemployment has remained a concern, particularly among the youth. The transition from traditional livelihoods to contemporary employment avenues poses challenges. The city’s economic landscape is in flux, demanding strategies that align with modern economic trends. Initiatives for skill development and entrepreneurship are underway, but the road to economic prosperity is a nuanced journey.
Efforts to address unemployment focus on empowering the local workforce. Skill development programs, vocational training, and collaborations with industries aim to create avenues for sustainable employment. The challenge lies in aligning these initiatives with the evolving needs of the job market, ensuring that Gambat’s residents are equipped for diverse employment opportunities.
Environmental Sustainability
Aside from employment, the recent disasters have devastated the environmental stability of Gambat. Balancing development with environmental preservation is a focal point for the city’s planners. Initiatives for afforestation, waste management, and sustainable urban planning are part of the strategy to uphold Gambat’s natural beauty while progressing economically.
Conclusion
Among the reputable and ancient places in the world, Gambat has secured a unique spot. The city’s journey as the “Land of Healers” is a narrative that continues to unfold—driven by a harmonious blend of spiritual heritage, medical advancements, educational initiatives, and a commitment to holistic well-being. As Gambat navigates the present-day challenges, its legacy as a city of healers persists, evolving with time and leaving an indelible mark on the map of cultural, spiritual, and medical excellence.
Frequently Asked Question
Here are some frequently asked questions:
In which city is Gambat Hospital?
Gambat Hospital is located in Gambat City, Khairpur District, Sindh, Pakistan.
How many seats are there in GIMS?
GIMS (Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences) has many seats, but the exact count may vary. For the latest information, checking with the institute directly is recommended.
Is there any factory in Gambat?
There are plenty of oil and gas mills in Gambat.
Does Gambat City generate money from agriculture?
Gambat Sindh generates money from educational institutes, oil mills, and agriculture.
Speaking of healers and guides, check out our post on Gurdwara Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib on Graana Blog.
