The Eduljee Dinshaw Charitable Dispensary in Saddar, Karachi was commissioned in 1882

The Eduljee Dinshaw Charitable Dispensary in Saddar, 1882 

Magnificent. Carefully detailed. Strategically placed. First major building in Karachi which was built in Italianate style. The Eduljee Dinshaw Charitable Dispensary is not only a classical landmark but a reminder of Karachi’s religious and ethnic diversity.

Amidst saddar’s hustle bustle, it is quite possible that you may miss the important landmark. So keep your eyes open when you reach the intersection of Preedy Street and Raja Ghazanfar Ali Road (Somerset Street). Here next to Khyber Hotel you will find the dispensary. Just like most of the buildings built under British raj the dispensary has a central clock with metallic roof. It proudly displays 1882 as year of its inauguration. It was designed by James Strachan, the Municipality engineer at that time. It was commissioned by the well-known philanthropist Eduiji Dinshaw.

The dispensary is a pleasant getaway from the crowded feeling forced by the uncontrolled commercialization in Saddar. Compare the picture from 19th century with the one which Karachi Walla took and mourn the sad demise of elegance from our urban structures.