Once the capital of the Sumra dynasty in Sindh, Umerkot not only boasts ancient history but is equally rich in agricultural diversity. From being the birthplace of the Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great to the legendary folklore of Umar and Marvi discussed by Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, Umerkot district or Amarkot holds a distinctive place in Sindh. From veggies to cotton and from mango orchards farming to ispaghol cultivation, the district is also known for the production of dundi cut chilli.
Umerkot is synonymous with Marvi, one of the seven queens in folklore poetry of Sindh’s great mystic poet, Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai. He has described the tragic romance saga as the symbol of resistance and love for her native land. In her folktale, Bhitai discussed veggies grown in the desert of Thar of which Umerkot is historically a part of. Located in eastern Sindh, about 60km from the Indian border, it is famous for the fort that dates back to the 11th century and exists today.