ملتان وچ رسائل و جرائد دی روایت

THE TRADITION OF NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES IN MULTAN

Abstract

Multan has always been a focal point of interest for scholars not only for its historical significance but also for its rich cultural, civilizational, and literary heritage. The city has long been regarded as sacred and holy in various religious traditions. Several religions either originated in Multan or found in this ancient city a centre for the completion and expansion of their preaching.

Politically, literarily, and religiously, Multan has consistently remained a point of attraction for people. For this reason, the field of communication and publication in Multan has historically appeared far more active than in many other developed or developing regions of the world. Whether it was the invention of script or the discovery of paper, Multan was always among the leading regions that readily adopted these advancements.

When the concept of the printing press emerged in the nineteenth century, Multan was among the first states to establish printing houses, initiating the regular publication of newspapers. The study of Multan’s literary history reveals that newspapers were being produced even before the establishment of printing presses. Prior to mechanical printing, these newspapers were written and prepared entirely by hand by skilled calligraphers. Due to this manual process, only a limited number of copies could be produced, making them accessible only to members of the court or the wealthy elite.

The tradition of newspapers, magazines, and journals that began in Multan has continued progressing through various stages of development for nearly three centuries.