10

The population of Skardu town was drawn from mixed races from Kashmir and Dards from Gilgit Agency. The credit of constructing the fort of Skardu called’ KHARPOCHO meaning’ the king of forts’ is also given to Bukha. Moghul Historians and other eminent scholars of the later period have ascribed it to Ali Sher Khan Anchan.

Bukha shifted his capital from Shagari to the town of Skardu.

ALI KHAN (1540-1565 A.D.)

The next ruler of importance was Ali Khan, grandson of Maqpon Bukha. He conquered Gultari, Shingo Shigar areas and Dras and annexed them to his kingdom. Governors were appointed for the administration of these areas. A strong fort was constructed at Goshan in Dras to guard against the invades of robbers. In Gultari and Shingo Shigar areas minor forts with towers were constructed. The knapa family of Gol was invested with rank of ministers as reward for services rendered by them in the conquest of Gultari..

GHAZI MIR (1565-1580 A.D.) 

Ali Khan’s son Ghazi Mir conquered the Rondu Valley on the death of the last childless Lonchhe Ruler. According to local tradition, towers, check posts etc. were constructed at Stak and Ganji villages in Rondu and soldiers were stationed on the Western Frontiers.

ALI SHER KHAN ANCHAN (THE GREAT)

(1580-1624 A.D.)

It is related that Ladakhi kingdom extended up to Sermik in the West. During the reign of Ghazi Mir, the Laddakhis were driven out not only from the Kharmang valley but the entire district of Purik (Kargil) was occupied by Ali Sher Khan, the heir apparent. He is said to have garrisoned the fort at Kharbu with soldiers and appointed a ‘Kharpon’ or governor to administer the border area.

 

Copyright © 2010. All Right Reserve MyBaltistan.com.
Design by R K Maqpoon