Chiniot region was agricultural region with forests during the Indus Valley Civilization. The Vedic period is characterized by Indo-Aryan culture that invaded from Central Asia and settled in Punjab region. The Kambojas, Daradas, Kaikayas, Madras, Pauravas, Yaudheyas, Malavas and Kurus invaded, settled and ruled ancient Punjab region. After overrunning the Achaemenid Empire in 331 BCE, Alexander marched into present-day Punjab region with an army of 50,000. The Chiniot region was ruled by Maurya Empire, Indo-Greek kingdom, Kushan Empire, Gupta Empire, White Huns, Kushano-Hephthalites and Shahi kingdoms.
In 997 CE, Sultan Mahmud Ghaznavi, took over the Ghaznavid dynasty empire established by his father, Sultan Sebuktegin, In 1005 he conquered the Shahis in Kabul in 1005, and followed it by the conquests of Punjab region. The Delhi Sultanate and later Mughal Empire ruled the region. The Punjab region became predominantly Muslim due to missionary Sufi saints whose dargahs dot the landscape of Punjab region.
After the decline of the Mughal Empire, the Sikh Empire invaded and occupied Narowal District. The Muslims faced restrictions during the Sikh rule.The British took over Chiniot District in 1848.
The predominantly Muslim population supported Muslim League and Pakistan Movement. After the independence of Pakistan in 1947, the minority Hindus and Sikhs migrated to India while the Muslim refugees from India settled in the Chiniot District.
“Chiniot” name is from Chandan Khan sister of Malik Machchhe Khan, Raja of Chiniot, a khokhar rajput clan. Mari tappa (founded raja badal khan khokhar rajput)was not then populated, but andheri was flourishing, and north of it lay the dhaular, or abode of Rani chandan, which was called chandniot, now chiniot. Or some say its name is based on as, literally “OT” (Behind/Across) of “CHIN-ab river”, hence Chiniot. According to Sir Denzil Ibbetson. Panjab Castes, A glossary of tribes and caste of Punjab by H.D. ROSE. Chiniot was known for its master crafted furniture, not only in Pakistan, but all over the world.Its highly special and master craft Jharokhas are known in the whole country.
Places of interest in chiniot
- Omar Hayat Mahal (palace)
- Rehti Fort
- Bara Mandir (Big Temple)
- Chiniot’s Shahi Masjid
- Tome of Shah Burhan
- Furniture Market of Chiniot
