Mohajeran

Mohajeran refers to Urdu-speaking Muslims who migrated from various regions of India to Pakistan after the partition of British India in 1947 and their descendants. The term "Mohajir" (مهاجر) literally means "immigrant" or "refugee" in Urdu, derived from the Arabic word "Muhajir" which refers to those who migrated with the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina.

In the context of Pakistani history, the term "Mohajir" specifically identifies those who left their homes in India, often under duress and amidst communal violence, seeking refuge and a new life in the newly formed Pakistan. These migrants came from diverse regions of India, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, Hyderabad Deccan, and others, bringing with them their distinct cultural traditions, language (Urdu), and customs.

The Mohajir community played a significant role in the early development of Pakistan, particularly in urban centers like Karachi, Hyderabad, and Sukkur. They contributed significantly to the country's bureaucracy, education system, and economy.

Over time, the term "Mohajir" has also acquired political connotations in Pakistan. In the 1980s, the Mohajir Quami Movement (MQM), later renamed Muttahida Qaumi Movement, was formed to advocate for the rights and interests of the Mohajir community. The MQM's emergence reflected a growing sense of marginalization and discrimination among Mohajirs within the Pakistani political landscape.

Today, while many members of the community identify as Pakistani, the term "Mohajir" remains a significant marker of identity, reflecting a shared history of displacement, resettlement, and the ongoing struggle for recognition and representation in Pakistan. The legacy of the partition and the experiences of the Mohajir community continue to shape Pakistan's socio-political dynamics.