Tent pegging experienced a decline in popularity after the establishment of Pakistan on August 14, 1947, for several reasons. This ultimately led to the rise of more glamorous sports such as cricket and squash, particularly in urban centers like Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Sukkur. However, tent pegging managed to survive in the rural areas of the country, where enthusiasts continued to raise horses and provide necessary funds to sustain the tradition. Despite the challenges, the playfields were maintained, and tent peggers persisted in participating, pulling out all the stops to keep the sport alive.
In Punjab and North Pakistan, tent pegging has long been the most favored equestrian competition. The National Horse and Cattle Show, a grand event showcasing various sports and cultural activities, played a significant role in promoting tent pegging. Unfortunately, the cancellation of this show dealt a blow to the sport. Nevertheless, tent pegging found a new lease on life at the cattle marketplaces known as Mela Mandis in the Punjab state. These venues witnessed the bravery and enthusiasm of tent pegging enthusiasts from all corners of Pakistan, breathing new life into the tradition.
Today, tent pegging enjoys popularity not only in Pakistan but also worldwide, with India, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Oman, Australia, and South Africa embracing the sport. Its inclusion in the Olympic Council of Asia in 1982 and recognition by the International Federation for Equestrian Discipline in 2004 underscore its status as a competitive sport of international acclaim.
The sport demands precision and skill from riders as they attempt to pick up pegs while galloping past them. Proper equipment, including lances, body armor, and specialized saddles, ensures the safety and performance of both riders and horses. Additionally, well-trained horses are essential, requiring comfort with loud noises, rider movements, and galloping.
Tent pegging events are not merely competitions; they are cultural extravaganzas. Attendees are treated to traditional music, local delicacies, and displays of cultural artifacts, creating an immersive experience that celebrates Pakistan's rich heritage.
In regions like Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Sindh, and Baluchistan, tent pegging holds a special place in the local culture. Vibrant festivals in cities like Lahore, Peshawar, Karachi, and Quetta attract enthusiasts and spectators alike, showcasing the sport's enduring significance.
The sport's calendar aligns with Pakistan's cultural festivities, with events like the Jashn-e-Baharan Festival and Horse and Cattle Show organized from September to April. These events serve as platforms for communities to come together, fostering camaraderie and friendship among riders and spectators alike
In conclusion, tent pegging in post-partition Pakistan exemplifies the resilience of cultural traditions in the face of modernization. Its ability to adapt and thrive underscores its significance as both a sport and a cultural phenomenon, bridging the gap between past and present generations.