The Illustrious Legacy of the Arain (Mehr) Family of Batala

Introduction:

History is often filled with tales of influential families whose contributions and impact transcend generations. Among these, the Mehr family of Batala holds a prominent place. Their story is one of grandeur, respect, and nobility, both among the British rulers and the local populace. With vast land holdings, esteemed members, and significant contributions to the birth of Pakistan, the Mehr family's legacy remains an inspiration to many.

The Founding of the Arain (Mehr) Family:

The Mehr family's roots in Batala can be traced back to the early 18th century when Mehr Qadir Bakhsh, a visionary and enterprising man, established the foundation of their grandeur. His foresight and business acumen led him to acquire a substantial expanse of 120,000 Kanal (approximately 15,000 acres) of fertile land in the region. Through hard work and determination, Mehr Qadir Bakhsh turned these lands into prosperous estates, earning the admiration of the British colonial rulers and the local community alike.

Mehr Qutubuddin: The Respected Noble:

Following in the footsteps of his father, Mehr Qutubuddin emerged as a respected and revered noble in Batala. Known for his benevolence and wisdom, he became a prominent figure in the region. His commitment to the welfare of the people and his dedication to the development of education and infrastructure endeared him to both the British authorities and the locals. Under his stewardship, the Mehr family's influence and reputation soared.

Distinguished Members of the Family:

The Mehr family boasted a lineage of distinguished individuals, each contributing significantly to the family's standing. Mehr Ali Bakhsh, Mehr Miran Bakhsh, Mehr Hukumdin, Mehr Rukkundin, and Mehr Abdul Rahim (Ziledar, Later Mayor of Batala) were esteemed members who continued the family's legacy of benevolence and noble deeds.

Nabi Bakhsh and Nawab Maula Bakhsh Khan Bahadur:

Nabi Bakhsh and Nawab Maula Bakhsh Khan Bahadur were two other remarkable members of the family who left an indelible mark on Batala's history. These prominent figures were known for their wealth, philanthropy, and dedication to the betterment of their community. Their contributions extended beyond Batala, reaching other parts of the region.

Mehr Family's Role in the Making of Pakistan:

The Mehr family's involvement in shaping the destiny of Pakistan during the tumultuous times of partition cannot be overlooked. As fervent supporters of the Pakistan Movement, they played an active role in the independence struggle. When Pakistan was finally established in 1947, the Mehr family celebrated the new nation and its ideals of unity and progress.

Migration and Spread Across Pakistan:

In the aftermath of the partition, many members of the Mehr family decided to move to different cities across Pakistan. Cities like Lahore, Lyallpur (now Faisalabad), and Nawabshah (now Shaheed Benazirabad) became their new homes. As they resettled, the family continued to contribute to the development and progress of their new communities.

The Honor of the Mehr Title:

One of the distinctive features of the Mehr family is their honorable title, "Mehr," which is a sub-caste of Arain. This title serves as a testament to their ancestry and their enduring commitment to nobility, respect, and service.

Conclusion:

The Mehr family of Batala remains an epitome of nobility, respect, and contribution. With their vast land holdings, esteemed members, and dedication to social welfare, they left an indelible mark on the history of Batala and Pakistan. Their legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations, reminding us of the importance of benevolence, community service, and commitment to a better society.