My Visit to Chitral Fort (2013)

June 10, 2013

Chitral, a region that is currently part of the North-West Frontier Province of Pakistan, was once an independent state in 1895. Although situated beyond the border of British India, it fell within the sphere of British influence as it owed allegiance to Kashmir. The year 1895 marked a tumultuous period in Chitral's history when the reigning Mehtar (ruler) was assassinated by one of his brothers who sought to claim the throne for himself.

In response to the power struggle and the ensuing instability, Surgeon Major George Robertson, the British Political Agent stationed in Gilgit, led a small military force to Chitral. However, their arrival was met with an additional challenge in the form of Umra Khan, a formidable Pathan chieftain, who had invaded Chitral from the south. To further complicate matters, Sher Afzal, another claimant to the rulership, had arrived from Afghanistan and aligned himself with Umra Khan. Robertson, refusing to accept either claimant, instead installed the younger brother of the late Mehtar, Shuja-ul-Mulk, as the provisional ruler.

As tensions escalated, the invading Pathans were joined by local factions, intensifying the conflict. In a bid to protect themselves and maintain control, the British officers, Indian soldiers, and civilians sought refuge within the fortified Chitral Fort, where they were joined by the newly appointed Mehtar and others, amounting to a total of approximately 540 individuals. What followed was a grueling siege that endured for six weeks. Meanwhile, two relief columns were dispatched to Chitral, one from Gilgit and the other being the larger Chitral Relief Force from the south, both braving the treacherous mountainous terrain in their efforts to provide assistance.

The story of the siege and its subsequent relief became one of the most captivating and dramatic episodes in the annals of Victorian military history. The campaign involved several forts, many of which still stand today and are visible to visitors. These forts serve as tangible reminders of the heroic struggles and sacrifices made by those involved in the defense of Chitral Fort and the subsequent efforts to relieve the besieged garrison.

Visitors to the region have the opportunity to witness firsthand the remnants of these historic forts, each holding a unique story and offering glimpses into a significant chapter in Chitral's past. These fortifications stand as enduring symbols of resilience and bravery, honoring the individuals who defended Chitral against overwhelming odds and ensuring that their legacy lives on in the collective memory of both locals and visitors alike.