Saddar (Urdu: صدر), also known as Saddar Bazaar, is a neighbourhood in Karachi, Pakistan.[1] The locality was developed as the primary commercial district during the period of British-era rule in Karachi. As a result, Saddar contains the large concentration of colonial-era architecture in Karachi.[2][3][4]
History
Empress Market in 1890Highrise buildings on II Chundrigar Road.Aerial view of Sadar District.
Saddar was established by the British in 1839 as a commercial district for Karachi's European population,[5] to the east of the bazaars of old Karachi in Mithadar, Kharadar, and Jodia Bazaar which served the native population. Following the annexation of Sindh in 1843, Saddar became the location of administrative and military functions. Following the Mutiny of 1857, rebels were executed at by being blown from the mouths of cannons at Saddar's military parade grounds.[6]
Karachi's most elite Catholic institutions were quickly established in Karachi: St Patrick's High School and St Joseph's Convent High School, wereset up in 1861 and 1862 respectively.[7] The Edulji Dinshaw Dispensary was established in 1882. The "McKenzie Pavilion Grounds", now known as Jehangir Park, was established in 1883.[7]Empress Market was established at the site of the execution grounds in 1889,[6] and was originally meant to serve British administrators, soldiers, and their families. The area around the market saw the establishment of posh bars, cafes, and restaurants, such as the Saddar Tea Rooms, Elphinstone Restaurant, the old Todi shop and Café Parisian.[7] A dress-code was enforced in the posh Saddar area, leading it to be eventually known as the "European Quarter" of Karachi.[7]
Following independence in 1947, Saddar remained a centre of multi-class interaction. Bars, clubs, and business catering to different social classes co-existed in the area.[7] Several institutions of higher learning were within walking distance, including D. J. Sindh Government Science College, and Sindh Muslim Law College, and Regal Bazar became home to a weekly book market that still takes place.[7] Saddar was also within easy walking distance from government institutions to the east of Saddar, and Civil Lines to the south. The most important churches in Karachi are located in Saddar, as well as Karachi's biggest Parsi fire temple.
Following the abolishment of alcohol by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in the early 1970s in an attempt to appease conservative forces, Saddar's nightlife scene was decimated.[7] In 1977, dictator Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq instituted an Islamization agenda that was opposed by the city's wealthy and westernized elite. These classes withdrew from much of public life in Saddar, and instead established exclusive social clubs in Karachi's wealthy residential districts. As a result, Saddar's commercial markets began to serve only lower and lower-middle classes.[7] The area remained a large commuter hub, and so hawker stalls began encroaching on sidewalks in order to cater to the growing number of commuters.[7]
A large multiplex cinema was established in the early 2000s, leading to a small wave of gentrification in the area. In 2019, in an effort to "clean up" the Empress Market, all stalls outside of the market which had been established in the plaza around the market were demolished in a controversial move.[7]
About Heritage
Karachi's Old Buildings
Saddar features numerous old buildings that have been declared heritage sites. These include structures like those in the Saddar Bazar Quarter, which is home to 118 heritage buildings. However, these buildings are facing significant deterioration due to neglect, and many are being replaced by modern constructions. Despite this, efforts are being made to preserve the facades and historical significance of these buildings[8]
Pakistan Chowk
Pakistan Chowk is another significant location, with several heritage buildings that have undergone urban interventions, helping preserve its cultural richness. Pakistan Chowk itself holds historical value, with conservation efforts focused on safeguarding its unique architectural style[9]
Heritage Walk Karachi - Exploring Saddar’s Colonial Architecture
Saddar’s colonial buildings hold a special place in the heart of many Karachiites. Shaheen Nauman, the guide for Heritage Walk Karachi, shares a personal connection to these structures, stating, 'I attach myself to colonial buildings... It has been very satisfying to be on the roads and show people the heritage of my city. I love my city.' This passion reflects the enduring significance of Saddar’s colonial heritage in the city's identity" (Wara Irfan, Dawn, 10 May 2023)[10]
Gallery
The following are heritage buildings in Saddar which are protected by the Government of Sindh:[11]
