Written by: Sadeem Shaikh
Posted on: December 24, 2015 |
Jinnah received his education from the Christian Missionary Society High School and the Sindh Madressatul Islam University, before flying off to England to study Law. Soon afterwards, his family moved out into a more affluent bungalow near what is now the Metropole area of Karachi. After the partition of the Indian subcontinent, the Government of Pakistan and the Department of Archeology and Museums contributed ceaselessly towards the maintenance of this historical landmark. While some genuine features may have been lost over the decades due to the harsh weather of Karachi and the natural process of decay, the concerned authorities have nevertheless worked hard to ensure the preservation of this revered monument.
Situated adjacent to Akhund Masjid off M. A. Jinnah Road, the 150-year-old landmark enunciates striking features of colonial architecture. Constructed originally with lime-colored stone masonry and jute mortar, the exterior of the current structure reveals the same yellow, sandstone spark. The entrance of the museum used to have a fountain, but due to renovation needs, it was removed some time ago. According to museum librarian Tanveer, “The ground floor of the building was also converted into a reading room after the government takeover in 1948, with a library featuring books on History, Politics and Law”. Some examples of these include Jinnah Faces an Assassination (1943) and The Idea of Pakistan (2004).
Upon entering the first floor gallery through a set of wooden stairs, one is astounded to find the entire floor air-conditioned in the cold month of December. When inquired about the seemingly unnecessary air-conditioning in peak winter time, the museum guide, Khadam Ali, was keen on explaining how a cold atmosphere was in fact necessary all year round to help preserve the original nature of Jinnah’s books, couches, bed set and furniture.
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