Alexander’s Garrison in the Salt Range
Wednesday, 31 December 2025
This article appeared in Daily The Nation
The Salt Range derives its name from extensive deposits of rock salt. The Range stands as remnant of forts with bastions and temples. Exceptionally, this region maintains an almost continuous record of history that can define the evolution of society. Forts and temples surviving along the range are a reminder of how untouched many of the ancient remnants are. Alexander from Macedon came to this Range twice; one from Taxila and later when his forces refused to go any further from the banks of the River Beas. From here he marched towards the Arabian Sea on his way to Babylon. And, now an NGO is constructing a monument of Alexander near Jalalpur town in the foot of the Salt Range in district Jhelum.
The Salt Range derives its name from extensive deposits of rock salt. The Range stands as remnant of forts with bastions and temples. Exceptionally, this region maintains an almost continuous record of history that can define the evolution of society. Forts and temples surviving along the range are a reminder of how untouched many of the ancient remnants are. Alexander from Macedon came to this Range twice; one from Taxila and later when his forces refused to go any further from the banks of the River Beas. From here he marched towards the Arabian Sea on his way to Babylon. And, now an NGO is constructing a monument of Alexander near Jalalpur town in the foot of the Salt Range in district Jhelum.
For those who take their first chance to the area, the landscape all along the Salt Range is rock-strewn, lacking in softness and loveliness. In many parts, it becomes barren and uninviting. But, in truth, the range is dotted with historical wonders, romantic legends, archaeological remains, and varying geological formations. The surroundings are very quiet. Urial is also found in the Range though facing extinction. A journey along the range is exciting as well as informative.
Read more »Labels: In Print, Nation, Travel
posted by S A J Shirazi @ Wednesday, December 31, 2025,
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Evening with Gen Munawar Sulehria
Saturday, 27 December 2025
By Tassawar Ali Rana
It was a whirlwind visit, but we managed to squeeze in a lovely evening (26 December 2025) with our dear colleague and comrade, Gen Munawar Sulehria, during his brief stop in town. A small but cherished gathering of 55 PMA Lahore chapter members came together for a dinner at DeSOM, sharing laughs, reminiscing, and diving into thought-provoking discussions and more.
Despite many colleagues being tied up with domestic engagements, those who joined had an enriching time, updating and basking in the General's presence. It was heart-warming (in winter) to host Gen Sulehria, and we're grateful for the memories created that night.
Labels: 55 PMA, Men At Their Best
posted by S A J Shirazi @ Saturday, December 27, 2025,
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Single and Looking
Friday, 26 December 2025
Things have changed far too much too fast. Writing about self no more seems difficult in this digital age. Exploring unlimited cyber expanses these days one cannot move much without reading variety of profiles, personal ads and statements. Readers soon are lured (or need) to upload their own, exceptions apart. Glut of matching and dating Websites (it seems as if every one in the world is 'single' and 'looking' out there) encourage and offer guidelines to write and some social networking sites also provide descriptive questionnaires or fill in the blank forms asking users to select what is most appropriate options about their appearance, interests, age, activities, likes and dislikes and some time more intimate things. This is one of the biggest trends not only in youth trying to extend their social circles and grab some attention but also for many others. Sophists article reads, "Almost 150 million people visited online dating sites in the month of January alone."
Read more »Labels: Chasing Life, Profile
posted by S A J Shirazi @ Friday, December 26, 2025,
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Heartwarming Reunion of Khalid-4
Wednesday, 17 December 2025
By Tassawar Ali Rana
Yesterday evening (17 December 2025) marked a truly special gathering for the brothers of Khalid-4 from the 55th PMA Long Course. Our dear course-mate, Colonel Naveed Akbar, who is currently visiting Lahore from Canada to meet old colleagues and attend to some family matters, was the guest of honour. The K-4 lads based in Lahore came together to host a memorable dinner at DeSOM, showering him with the love, respect, and camaraderie that has bound us for nearly five decades.
Almost everyone from the platoon in Lahore turned up, with only two notable absences: Colonel Nauman, held back by pressing family commitments, and Colonel (Retd) AIG Abid Qadri, who is in Karachi overseeing the National Olympic Games in his capacity as head of the Pakistan Olympic Committee.
Read more »Labels: 55 PMA, Men At Their Best
posted by S A J Shirazi @ Wednesday, December 17, 2025,
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Joyous Reunion at Walima Reception
Monday, 15 December 2025
We were delighted to gather and celebrate the Walima of Arslan Tariq, son of Lt Col Tariq Fazal - a cherished friend and course mate. As is our tradition with the Lahore Chapter (55 PMA), the event provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with old comrades and reminisce about shared memories.
The elegant Glass Hall at Lahore Garrison Greens served as the perfect venue, complemented by delicious food and the warm company of friends. It was truly heartwarming to see so many familiar faces [16] in attendance, including Khaled Javed, Zahir Khan, Muhammad Athar, Sultan, Saleem Sarwar, Tassawar, Baqair, Akbar Ali, Ali Akbar, Khalid Pervaiz, Ashraf Tabassum, Nauman Siddiqui, Ghazanfar Ali, Nadir Mir, Sher Zaman, and myself (many accompanied by family).
Lt Col Tariq Fazal remains a steadfast pillar not only of our Lahore Chapter but also of 55 PMA, consistently attending all course gatherings.
We are deeply grateful for the enduring camaraderie and friendship that bind us. Thank you to Tariq Fazal and his family for their gracious hosting. Here's to Arslan and his bride, wishing them a lifetime of happiness, love, and adventure together. And here's to many more joyful gatherings and cherished memories with the 55 PMA family in the years ahead.
Previous: Journey Break With Tariq Fazal
Labels: 55 PMA, Men At Their Best
posted by S A J Shirazi @ Monday, December 15, 2025,
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