Bahawalpur: A comprehensive heritage walk for a group of international travellers from Russia was organized in Bawalpur. The initiative was taken and led by a cultural ambassadorship Shan Asghar, a dedicated student from the Department of Anthropology at Islamia University Bawalpur.
14 Russian visitors were immersed in the rich historical tapestry of the region, leveraging his academic training, Shan served as an erudite guide, narrating the intricate local history and culture with passion and expertise.
The travellers were taken on a journey through time, visiting the majestic Noor Mahal, the formidable Derawar Fort, the architecturally significant Abbasi Jamia Masjid near the fort, the historic Royal Graveyard, and the opulent Sadiq Garh Palace.
“This walk was an unforgettable deep dive into Pakistan’s living history,” remarked one of the participants. “Shan’s narratives brought these magnificent monuments to life. It’s heartening to see young scholars so passionately preserving and presenting their heritage,” he said.
Speaking about the experience, Shan Asghar said, “My studies in anthropology are about understanding human cultures. Translating that knowledge into a tangible experience for international guests was incredibly rewarding. It was about sharing our stories and building bridges of mutual respect and curiosity.”
The Department of Anthropology head, Dr Farooq Ahmad, also lauded the efforts. “We are immensely proud of Shan. This initiative perfectly embodies the applied spirit of anthropology — moving beyond textbooks to engage with communities and audiences,” he said, adding, “It highlights the role our students can play as cultural custodians and global ambassadors. We actively encourage such endeavours that showcase our region’s splendour to the world.”
The meticulously planned itinerary by Dr Moazzam Khan Durrani featured some of the region’s most iconic landmarks.
The Russian travellers appreciated connecting with the region’s heritage through the lens of a knowledgeable local student. They expressed profound gratitude for Shan’s efforts and commended the Department of Anthropology for fostering such initiatives that promote regional culture on an international platform.
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