‘Individuals who have served Karachi to be honoured at renovated Khaliqdina Hall’

Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab inaugurated the renovated Khaliqdina Hall on MA Jinnah Road on Sunday, describing the project as part of ongoing efforts to restore historical buildings to their original state.

He emphasised that Karachi boasts a glorious past, which must be introduced to the younger generation. The mayor highlighted that Khaliqdina Hall, constructed with funds donated by Karachi resident Seth Khaliqdina, holds central significance in the Pakistan Movement and the country’s development. He explained that the hall’s renovation was possible through the funding of the British Council's Cultural Protection Fund.

He said that 118 years after its original construction, the same spirit of preservation continues today, as several citizens support such restoration projects. He expressed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the city’s heritage so that future generations can understand how their forefathers envisioned Karachi.

Referring to Karachi’s historical landmarks, he mentioned the construction of Frere Hall in 1865, the Karachi Metropolitan Building in 1932, and the Eduljee Dinshaw Dispensary in 1882. Highlighting Khaliqdina Hall’s role in history, the mayor of Karachi said that during the Khilafat Movement, the British held court in this hall, where leaders such as Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar and Shaukat Ali were tried for rebellion and imprisoned for over two years.

Mayor Wahab announced plans to complete the renovation of Denso Hall within the next two months and open it to the public. He added that these historical buildings, once limited to the elite, are now accessible to the general public. At Frere Hall, for instance, a library has been made functional, CSS aspirants are being taught, and book launch events are being held.

Addressing the importance of sustainability, the mayor explained that commercial activities are essential to preserve historical sites, as they generate funds for maintenance and restoration. He encouraged the youth to take ownership of Karachi’s heritage and protect these historical landmarks.

Wahab also announced that in the first week of January, individuals who have served Karachi would be honoured with the Tamgha-e-Karachi at Khaliqdina Hall in recognition of their contributions. He reiterated his administration’s efforts to improve Karachi’s image. He urged the citizens, especially the younger generation, to take pride in Karachi’s rich history and actively participate in preserving its cultural heritage.