Arab Caliphates in Balochistan: Historic Conquests and Cultural Influence

 

The Arab Caliphates played a significant role in the history of Balochistan. In the 7th century, Arab forces invaded the region, converting the Baloch people to Islam and establishing Arab rule. This period of Arab rule helped the Baloch people develop their own semi-independent tribal systems, although they faced threats from stronger forces.

 

In 636 CE, Rai Chach from Sindh marched into Makran, but it was in 643 that the Arabs reached Makran. Caliph Umar sent Suhail ibn Adi to conquer the Karman region of Iran in 644, and from there, they entered western Baluchistan and the Sistan region. During Caliph Uthman's reign in 652, Balochistan was reconquered as part of a campaign against a revolt in Karman. Western Baluchistan came under the direct control of the Caliphate during this time.

 

Under the governorship of Abdulrehman ibn Samrah, the Islamic army further expanded its conquests in Balochistan. The region up to Kabul and Ghazni in the Hindu Kush mountains was conquered, and areas in northwestern Baluchistan, including the cities of Dawar and Qandabil (Bolan), came under Muslim rule. By 654, the entire Baluchistan province of present-day Pakistan was under the rule of the Rashidun Caliphate.

 

However, Balochistan faced revolts during the reign of Caliph Ali, due to the civil war in the Islamic empire. In 660, a large force was sent to suppress the revolts, leading to the re-conquest of Makran, northeastern Balochistan, and the city of Kalat. In 663 CE, during the reign of Umayyad Caliph Muawiyah I, Muslims temporarily lost control of northeastern Balochistan and Kalat due to a revolt.

 

Arab rule in Balochistan continued until the end of the 10th century. The Arab governors had influence over areas such as Turan (Jhalawan) and Nudha or Budha (Kachhi). Evidence suggests the presence of an Arab governor in Khuzdar around 976, as recorded by Ibn Haukal during his visit to India.

 

Overall, the Arab Caliphates left a lasting impact on Balochistan's history, shaping its religious and cultural landscape during their rule.