Understanding the Capital Transition in Punjab: Lahore, Shimla, and Chandigarh
Preface
This article delves into the fascinating history of the capitals of Punjab, both in Pakistan and India. We explore the transitions that took place, including the prominence of Lahore, the shift to Shimla and its significance, and the creation of Chandigarh as the modern capital of Punjab.
Capital Transitions in Punjab
Readers may often wonder which city held the capital status of Punjab before and after Lahore. Given that Lahore was the previous capital of West Punjab, this article clarifies the sequence of capitals of Punjab in both India and Pakistan.
Punjab Capital in Pakistan
The capital of Punjab in Pakistan continually shifted post-partition. Initially, Lahore served as the capital of West Punjab until the creation of Pakistan's federal capital, Islamabad. However, if we consider the sequence of the main centers of administration in Pakistan after the partition, the next significant city is Lahore itself.
Punjab Capital in India
The capital of the Indian Punjab was Chandigarh. Chandigarh, although not in Punjab per se, was designed as a new city to serve as the administrative and capital center for the state of Punjab, and it remains so to this day. Initially, even after partition, Punjab (East Punjab) in India, had its capital in Shimla until it was moved to Chandigarh in 1953.
Shimla and Its Role
Shimla was the capital of East Punjab from 1947 to 1953. Prior to 1950, East Punjab was known as 'Punjab' and was a province of India. After 1950, it became a state. Shimla played a crucial role as a temporary capital until 1953, when Chandigarh was inaugurated as the permanent capital of Punjab.
The Panjab University and Capital-to-Operations
Just as the capital shifted from one city to another, the Panjab University, located in Lahore, also adapted. After the capital moved to Shimla in the early 1950s, the university's primary administrative center relocated to Shimla, only to follow once more to Chandigarh when it was established in 1953.
PEPSU and Its Capital Patiala
Moreover, for the province of PEPSU (Patiala and East Punjab States Union), which existed from 1948 to 1956, Patiala was the administrative capital. Shimla and other locations such as Kasauli, Kandaghat, Dharampur, and Chail were also included within the boundaries of PEPSU.
Jalandhar as a Previous Capital
From India's independence in 1947, Jalandhar served as the capital of Punjab. Challenging the notion that it was Lahore or Shimla, Jalandhar played a vital role in the immediate post-partition period until the construction and inauguration of Chandigarh in 1953.
Conclusion: About Capital Transitions
In summary, the capitals of Punjab in both Pakistan and India have been evolving over the years, with Lahore, Shimla, and Chandigarh taking turns as the administrative centers. Each city played a critical role in the administration of the region at different points in time.