The Karachi Walla

Malbari hotels were once an integral part of Karachi’s cafe culture. Just like Irani cafes, they defined a set of aesthetics, sensitivities and a particular type of experience despite them belonging to different owners. At turn of the century, the fast growing city of Karachi attracted people from all over the subcontinent. As the legend […]

My friends have been telling me how Lyari gets transformed during FIFA world Cup for many years. I stayed away from the area due to my own misconceptions. I regret that now but still wonder wonder how it would have been during peak gang wars time which by the ways seems like a distant memory, […]

Some people might have this misconception that Defence and Clifton are the most happening parts of the town. Lyari trumps them both any given day. It is as if we are comparing Morata with Salah on current form for their respective clubs. A lot of people that I have acquainted with recently in Lyari have […]

The building looks like it was built sometime in 70s. The recent renovation makes it difficult to make an educated guess. The contractors trusted with renovations in the city have started giving the same treatment to every building. Shinning tiles, gaudy false ceilings and misfit fixtures are a common theme that you find across the […]

There are certain buildings in each neighborhood which become very important because of the role that they play in local social scene. Memories are associated with these landmarks and they live in our conversations long after they have disappeared physically. Such is the position of Muhammad Ali Sobaidar building in Aath Chowk (literally eight (lane) […]