Interview: Nazimabad – A Tapestry of History, Culture, and People

Interview: Nazimabad – A Tapestry of History, Culture, and People

Host: Khalid Riyaz FarshoriGuest: Waliullah Junaidi

Khalid Riyaz Farshori (KF):Shah Waliullah Bhai, Assalamu Alaikum.

Waliullah Junaidi (WJ):Wa Alaikum Assalam.

KF:My father, Riyaz Farshori Sahib, was a 4th grader in Nazimabad. I was born in Nazimabad. Growing up, I always viewed Nazimabad as a place of heritage. During that time, Nazimabad was a hub for literature, art, and vibrant cultural activities that seem less common in today's society. You've written a book on Nazimabad. Could you tell us more about it?

WJ:Thank you, Khalid. Nazimabad indeed has a rich history, especially in the context of its cultural and intellectual significance. After the partition of India, Nazimabad became a major settlement in Pakistan. Under the leadership of Qaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Liaquat Ali Khan, many people migrated to Karachi. It is estimated that over a million people arrived in Karachi during that time.

KF:How did Nazimabad develop into a center for scholars, scientists, and cultural leaders?

WJ:Nazimabad's transformation into a cultural and intellectual center can be traced back to the early 1950s. During Khawaja Nazimuddin's tenure, land was designated for what we now know as Nazimabad. This land, originally owned by Baloch leader Masthi Barui Khan, was acquired by the government for development. Nazimabad's planning and design were carried out by various companies to accommodate the influx of people from different regions of the subcontinent.

KF:It seems like Nazimabad attracted a diverse population. Who were some of the notable communities and individuals that settled there?

WJ:Indeed, Khalid. Nazimabad became home to people from various backgrounds, including migrants from Delhi, Lucknow, Hyderabad, and other states. This diversity extended to languages and cultures, but Urdu quickly became the lingua franca, uniting the community. Renowned figures such as Niaz Fatehpuri, Ibn-e-Safi, Majnu Gorakhpuri, and Tabish Dehlvi chose Nazimabad as their residence. My own family, deeply involved in government services, also settled here.

KF:You mentioned that Nazimabad was known for its rich cultural environment. Can you elaborate on the types of cultural activities and traditions that were prevalent?

WJ:Nazimabad was vibrant with cultural and social activities. Celebrations of Rabi' al-Awwal and Muharram were significant events, with processions and gatherings that brought the community together. National days like August 14th were celebrated with great enthusiasm and respect. There was a strong sense of community etiquette and discipline. Elders were highly respected, and neighborhood ties were strong.

KF:It's fascinating to hear about such a close-knit community. How did this sense of community reflect in daily life and interactions?

WJ:The community was indeed very close-knit. People were polite, and there was a sense of mutual respect. Simple gestures, like greeting neighbors or respecting elders, were common. Even the smallest things, like disposing of garbage properly or maintaining public cleanliness, were part of the community ethos. Children were expected to behave respectfully, and there were strong norms against smoking or engaging in inappropriate behavior in front of elders.

KF:I recall stories of how simple and respectful life was in Nazimabad. Can you share any specific anecdotes that highlight this aspect?

WJ:Certainly. For instance, in the 1970s, it was common to see mango trees in every house. I remember an incident where some Bengali children were caught taking mangoes from a neighbor's tree. Instead of punishment, the neighbor explained why stealing was wrong and offered them jobs. This was the kind of community spirit that defined Nazimabad.

KF:Nazimabad has also been home to many prominent figures in various fields. Can you tell us about some notable residents?

WJ:Absolutely. Nazimabad has been home to many influential personalities. In politics, figures like Munawwar Hassan, Miraj ul Huda Siddiqui, and Safwanullah from MQM lived here. Justice Zahid Hussain Lari and former Governor Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ibad were also among the prominent residents. In literature and arts, personalities like Niaz Fatehpuri, Ibn-e-Safi, and Tabish Dehlvi were notable residents. They contributed significantly to the cultural richness of Nazimabad.

KF:With such a rich cultural and intellectual heritage, how has Nazimabad changed over the years?

WJ:Nazimabad has indeed evolved over the decades. While it started as a carefully planned settlement, it grew rapidly as people from various regions and backgrounds moved in. The community dynamics changed, but the core values of respect and etiquette remained. The architectural landscape also transformed, with small huts giving way to more permanent structures.

KF:You mentioned the importance of institutions like the Eid Gah and the Ghalib Library. What role did they play in the community?

WJ:The Eid Gah was a central place for community gatherings, especially during Eid prayers. It was a symbol of unity and shared cultural heritage. The Ghalib Library, established later, became a hub for intellectual and literary activities. It hosted many events that brought together people from various walks of life to discuss literature, culture, and social issues.

KF:Nazimabad has always been known as a cultural and social hub. Can you start by describing the culinary scene there, especially places like Pahposh, Rashid Korma, and Pakman?

WJ:Absolutely. Nazimabad was a melting pot of flavors. Pahposh, for instance, was a favorite spot for late-night snacks, offering delicious treats. Rashid Korma was famous for its flavorful kormas that attracted people from all over Karachi. Pakman was the go-to place for families to enjoy ice cream and desserts. These establishments not only provided food but also became part of the social fabric, places where people gathered and shared moments.

KF:Looking back, what do you think made Nazimabad such a special place?

WJ:Nazimabad's uniqueness lay in its blend of cultural diversity, intellectual richness, and strong community values. It was a place where people from different backgrounds came together to create a vibrant community. The respect for tradition, the love for literature and arts, and the sense of mutual respect and support made Nazimabad truly special.

KF:Thank you, Waliullah Bhai, for sharing these insightful stories and memories about Nazimabad. It's clear that it holds a special place in your heart and in the history of Karachi.

WJ:Thank you, Khalid. It was a pleasure to revisit these memories and discuss the rich heritage of Nazimabad. And for anyone looking to delve deeper into this vibrant neighborhood, I would recommend reading the articles from The Wire Pakistan for more insights and stories.

You could watch full interview on #TheWirePakistan youtube channel

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUKiuJDxpjY