TDF Ghar — presenting Karachi as it once was

If one wishes to experience the architecturally and culturally rich Karachi of yore, the TDF Ghar – a project of The Dawood Foundation – is the place to visit.

Recently opened for the public, the house is located in Jamshed Quarters - an estate developed by Karachi’s first mayor, Jamshed Nusserwanjee, for the city’s growing middle class and home to multiple ethnicities including Muslims, Christians, Jews and Parsis.

Built in 1930 by Hanibai Motiram, the TDF Ghar - conserved by renowned architect Shahab Ghani – is, to state metaphorically, a true representation of a place conversing with its visitors.

As Frank Lloyd Wright aptly put, "A building is not just a place to be, but a way to be." The house’s living room has been transformed into a museum which has on display artefacts such as typewriters, an old chess board, vintage books, classic high ceiling fans, old mosaic tiles, a gramophone - all objects of a distant memory.

Right across from the living room is the Sehan Café, reminiscent of the Irani café culture that once dominated Karachi. However, access to a WiFi connection and sockets to plug in laptops is where the past meets the present.

“The purpose of adding a café is to provide a platform for the young people of Karachi to socialise and spend their quality time,” said Ridhwan Khan, administrator of the house.

Moving from the ground to the first floor, the rooms still appear to be quite bare with old wooden benches and a dresser placed inside. 

Along with the museum and café, the finest attraction of the TDF Ghar is its rooftop that leaves one awestruck by a scenic view of the Quaid's mausoleum. Even the noise of the chaotic traffic surrounding the area does not dampen one’s spirits.

Moreover, three halls called Numaish and a training room are also planning on being utilised for non-commercial activities. Open to public throughout the week, from 10am to 10pm, the entrance fee to the house is a mere Rs50; the museum, however, closes at 6pm.

Inquired about charging an entrance fee, the administrator stated that, “The price is imposed because we want people to take ownership of the place. By taking Rs50, we won’t be making any huge profit but it will give a sense of belonging to the people.” — Story and photos: Geo.tv