Islamabad: A Modern Capital Rooted in History and Culture
By Zafar Iqbal, PhD
Washington, DC
Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, is renowned for its scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scene. Established in 1960 to replace Karachi as the capital, the city was meticulously planned to integrate urban development with natural landscapes. Over the years, it has evolved into a hub for diplomacy, academia, and artistic expression.
Book discussion at the Black Hole
As Pakistan’s political and administrative center, Islamabad hosts key government institutions, embassies, and international organizations. It is also home to prestigious universities such as Quaid-i-Azam University and the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), fostering an intellectually rich environment. With its cosmopolitan character, the city is a melting pot of cultures, making it an ideal space for artistic and literary engagement. Annual cultural events further enrich its dynamic landscape.
Inside Texila museum
Islamabad’s historical significance is amplified by its proximity to Taxila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 35 kilometers away. Once an ancient center of learning and culture, Taxila flourished during the Maurya and Gupta empires, contributing to advancements in philosophy, science, medicine, and art. Recognized as one of the world’s earliest universities, it attracted scholars from diverse civilizations. The city’s archaeological remains—stupas, monasteries, and relics—reflect the confluence of various cultural influences over centuries.
Inside Texila museum 1
The Taxila Museum, adjacent to the archaeological site, houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including Gandharan sculptures, pottery, coins, and Buddhist relics. Construction began in 1918 under Lord Chelmsford, then Viceroy of India, and the museum was inaugurated in 1928 by Sir Muhammad Habibullah. Its core collection, dating back to 600–700 BCE, highlights the artistic exchanges among Persian, Greek, Central Asian, and Indian civilizations. Its holdings expanded with the addition of a northern gallery in 1998.
Inside Texila museum 2
With approximately 7,000 artifacts on display—ranging from stone and terracotta to gold, silver, and semi-precious stones—the museum showcases Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain influences. It also boasts one of the largest numismatic collections from Taxila, tracing coins from the Indo-Greek period to the late Kushans. Despite its historical significance, the museum suffers from neglect, inadequate maintenance, and even artifact theft, underscoring the urgent need for preservation efforts.
Journalist Zaidi
Another cultural and intellectual hub in Islamabad is The Black Hole (TBH), a non-profit community center in G-11/3. Established on March 5, 2022, as a project of Mashal Books, TBH promotes scientific literacy and cultural engagement. Founded by distinguished nuclear physicist Dr Pervez Hoodbhoy, the center serves as a platform for discussions, lectures, and activities spanning science, music, poetry, and social issues.
Senator Dr. Saeeda Iqbal
TBH features a 60-seat auditorium, a small library, and a dedicated children’s science lab. It hosts live-streamed lectures, roundtable discussions, and cultural events in Urdu and English, making complex scientific and societal topics accessible to the public. Its mission is threefold: simplifying science and technology, nurturing young talent, and promoting rational thinking. TBH remains independent of political or religious affiliations, focusing solely on intellectual and cultural enrichment.
Texila entrance
I recently attended a literary event at TBH featuring the book Poori Kahani, Sahafion ki Zabani by senior journalist Ms Nuzaira Azam. The book, a compilation of interviews with veteran journalists, highlights their struggles to protect press freedom amid Pakistan’s transition toward a national security state. The event was expertly managed, with distinguished speakers such as veteran journalist Nasir Zaidi and Senator Dr Saeeda Iqbal offering insightful perspectives. The engaging discussions extended beyond schedule, as Ms Azam and Zaidi thoughtfully addressed audience questions. Dr Saadia Kamaal’s excellent moderation further ensured the event’s success.
Texila museaum stupa
Texila museum entrance1
The Black Hole Panelists
With Aitezaz Ahsan and Iftikhar Arif
Writer Nuzaira Azam
