Kacha Qila Fort

Wall of Katcha Qila, Hyderabad, Sindh

Katcha Qila is a small triangular-shaped mud-brick fort located in Hyderabad, Sindh. It was constructed by the Kalhora ruler Ghulam Shah Kalhoro as a defensive outpost to complement the larger Pakka Qila. The distinction between the two forts lies in their construction materials. Katcha Qila was built using sundried mud bricks, whereas Pakka Qila was constructed with burnt bricks. Due to its location near the Shrine of Pir Makki Shah, Katcha Qila is also referred to as Makki Shah Qilla.

Pir Makki Shah, originally named Sheikh Muhammad Ansari, was born in Makkah in 1127 AD. He migrated to Sindh in 1155 AD and passed away eight years later. His tomb is located on a mound where other graves are also present. According to historical accounts, the site where Katcha Qila was built was an existing burial ground that included the grave of Pir Makki Shah. Many graves were reportedly destroyed during the construction of the fort.

The Kalhora dynasty, which ruled Sindh from 1701 to 1783 AD, initially had its capital at Khudabad, located in present-day Dadu district. However, in 1768, Miyan Ghulam Shah Kalhoro relocated the capital to Hyderabad, establishing it on the remnants of the ancient city of Nirunkot. He commissioned the construction of Pakka Qila as the principal fortification of the new capital, with Katcha Qila serving as a southwestern defensive stronghold.

Local folklore suggests that the destruction of graves during the construction of Katcha Qila, particularly the perceived desecration of Pir Makki Shah’s resting place, led to divine retribution. It is believed that this act of disrespect resulted in the untimely and sudden demise of Ghulam Shah Kalhoro. An inscription at the tomb of Pir Makki Shah states that Katcha Qila was constructed in 1769, aligning with the period of Ghulam Shah Kalhoro’s establishment of Hyderabad as capital and construction of Pakka Qila
The historical and religious significance of Katcha Qila is evident not only in its strategic military function but also in its association with Pir Makki Shah’s shrine. Over time, the site has retained its cultural importance. Given its vulnerable mud-brick construction, the fort is at greater risk of deterioration, requiring the need for conservation efforts to protect this important heritage site.