History of Punial Valley

 AQA OF PUNIAL The title of Aqa of Punial has a rich historical significance, traditionally held by the Ismaili rulers of Punial, which is part of the Ayasho Dynasty in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. This title is formally conferred during a ceremonial event known as "Takht Nisheeni," which signifies the coronation of a new Aqa. The eldest son of the Aqa is designated as the Prince of Punial, establishing a clear line of succession within the royal family. During the British colonial era, the title of His Royal Highness was bestowed upon the head of the ruling family in acknowledgment of his contributions to the region and his cooperative relationship with British authorities. The Aqa holds a pivotal role in both political leadership and the preservation of cultural heritage in Punial. The first Aqa of the Ayasho Dynasty was His Royal Highness Colonel Aqa Akbar Ali Shah, while the last was His Royal Highness Aqa Mayoon Shah. This dynasty, closely associated with th...