Banjosa

Banjosa is a small tourist attraction point about 20 kilometres (12 mi) from Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir. Word Banjosa is still undefined but according to local peoples, Banjosa is hindko words, consist of two parts "Bun" means forest and Jousa was owner of all the Land of Banjosa. Banjosa has three main Marketplaces, (Mareed Na Bagla), R.A bazar, Miral Gala and Gale wala pir Bazaar. Religious Terrorism or Freedom fight in Kashmir was started by Captain Hussein khan and Other Pakistani Militants from this Valley and other parts of Kashmir . This area is famous due to Banjosa Lake.

Introduction

Banjosa is a beautiful village located in Tehsil Rawalakot. Banjosa is famous due to its beautiful lake. This area is a part of district Poonch, Kashmir. Before unlawful occupation of Kashmir territory by India and Pakistan, significant Hindu families were present in Banjosa valley. Education Literacy Rate of Banjosa is 97%. Land of Banjosa is further unofficially divided in sub units like Challa, Mareed e na Bagla, Kotore, Danna, etc.

History

In ancient time, Banjosa was owned by Kashmiri hindu Pindiths. Muslims were intruder in the land of Banjosa in late 16th century. According to some locals "Sudhans of Banjosa" are combination of Saduzai and Kashmiri Barhamans. However , According to religious scholar of Banjosa Sardar Muhammad Azam Lala Sudhans are immigrants of Palangi, Kashmir. In the same time, limited families of Mugal and Kiyani are also leaving in banojsa. In 11th century, Banjosa was international trade route of Kashmir with west and also served as outpost of Kashmiri Military.

Religion

Now-a-days, 99.9% population of Banjosa is follower of Islam. 98% population of Banjosa is sunni Muslim and 1% is Shia Muslim and traced amount of Ahmadiyah Muslims, Atheists, Multi-religious followers are also present.

Education

Nandi Lal a hindu teacher was a person who established first educational institute in Banjosa. He was very noble person and respected by peoples of Banjosa. He was a Great person who literate banjosees especially Sudhans of banjosa. Educational institutes are present in Banjosa such as Govt women Degree College and School, Tafheem-ul-olum high school for boys, Kashmir Public School, Islamic Public School, Ideal Public School, Banjosa Public school, Branch of Pir Alou din University and Banjosa valley Boarding school.

Culture

An influence of Pakistani culture is strongly present in Banjosa. Shalwar Kameez is commonly wear dress locally. Significant majority also wears western clothes. Western culture is also dominating in women`s fashion locally. Pahari Language is spoken by native peoples.

Politics

Theocratic politics is present in peoples of Banjosa. However, concept of Free Kashmir is supported by 97% Banjosees. Significant strength of socialism is also present.

Transportation

Van system is present in this area without any alteration for last 20 years. However, due to rapid growth personal vehicles are used by 99% Banjosees. Kashmir main Highway is passed from center of Banjosa.

Economy

Economy of Banjosa is mainly based on foreign Exchange, Self business, and civil services etc. Approximately 11% peoples are serving in Pakistani Military, 23% peoples are working in abroad, 9% working in civil services and approx. 2% works in Bureaucracy of Azad Kashmir. Contribution in economy of Banjosa by women is very high in ratio as compare to any rural part of Pakistan.

Minerals

Iron ores, bauxite deposits, graphite deposits, gypsum deposits are found nearby Challa to Chabber along ford, magnesium, evidence of limonite deposit is abundantly found along Ford bank. Evidence of coal and marble deposits are also found nearby Chotagala road. Limestone is abundantly present in Banjosa.

References