Karachi Landmarks – Ideal Life Assurance Building

KFC, Bata, Chottani Jewelers, English Boot House, Sputnik Footwear, Alimson Footwear, Optico, Atif Optical Store and Fitrite. Make sure to take your eyes off these distractions when you visit Zebunisa street next time. Rather spare time to have a look at the magnificent landmark currently known as Ideal Life Assurance Building. However it was inaugurated in 1892 as an office of The Indian Life Assurance Co. It was built in classical European style with a beautiful dome in between instead a clock tower which was a preferred choice at the time of its construction. The facade has probably survived due to Sindh Heritage’s intervention but a closer look reveals that its side walls are in bad shape and the dome gives a rusted look. Uncontrolled commercialization has also marginalized the building’s elegance. Ugly Signboards and wires are in the face of this royal landmark.

Zebunissa street connects Garden with Sharah-e-faisal. Therefore it is one of the busiest streets in Karachi. Road jams are frequent. Next time you get stuck there then take the moment to praise the craftsmanship which has given this building a different range of detail and tones. Shouting, cursing, swearing, cussing at the traffic will not do any good to you