Gold industry icon Al-Haj Haroon Rasheed Chand passes away at 80

KARACHI: The gold and jewellery industry is mourning the loss of Al-Haj Haroon Rasheed Chand, affectionately known as ‘Baba-e-Gold’ (Father of Gold), who passed away on Friday (Dec 14) at the age of 80.

Haroon Rasheed Chand was not just a goldsmith but a visionary leader who played a transformative role in shaping the country’s gold and jewellery sector. Serving as president of both the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Association and the All Sindh Saraf Jewellers Association, Chand was instrumental in standardising gold and silver rates nationwide, introducing much-needed transparency and stability to the industry.

With a career spanning several decades, Chand was revered for his deep knowledge and expertise in the gold market. Under his leadership, the industry witnessed significant modernisation, earning him respect and admiration from colleagues and the younger generation of jewellers alike.

The magnitude of his influence was evident as gold and jewellery markets, including the bullion exchange, shut down across the country to mourn his passing. This rare gesture underscored the profound respect he commanded within the industry.

Chand was laid to rest on Saturday (Dec 15) at the Tariq Road graveyard. Family, friends and countless colleagues from the gold and jewellery sector gathered to pay their final respects, reflecting the widespread grief over his loss.

Chand leaves behind an enduring legacy of integrity, expertise and leadership. His invaluable contributions to the gold industry will continue to guide and inspire future generations of goldsmiths and traders.