Saturday 2 November 2013

Reimagining Pakistan - The Evolution

It seems like only yesterday when an idea took shape in the sleek basement office of SEED and turned into a movement that continues to draw in more and more people from every sector. Reimagining Karachi to Reimagining Pakistan - a journey that was intertwined with countless experiences and memories. A journey that is going on full throttle and brings with it a promise to save the nation's heritage. Setting a new trend in this regard is an uphill task, but one that along with the challenges also brings with it a great sense of pride and elation.

The story of Reimagining Karachi evolving into Reimagining Pakistan is as interesting and intriguing for us as for others who are part of it in some way or the other. While our heart bled at the current status and dilapidation of architectural heritage across the country, the project basically initiated from Karachi, a city that is widely known as a commercial hub. Just today at the office, this scribe/blogger was rambling on about Karachi also being a walled city once, and the invasion by the British through Manora Fort. It is unfortunate that not much attention is given to these significant structures and sites that mark our history.

From there, it was an ambitious but extremely fulfilling road to other parts of the country. A collaboration with Walled City of Lahore Authority in this regard was another major step, bridging gaps between the two provinces as is the intention with the rest of the provinces. One must understand that strengthening ties with our past helps create a nation that understands its roots which is imperative for progress from a lot of perspectives. Retaining character of heritage sites, preserving and restoring them and creating an environment where our future generations not only take pride in them but also continues with these efforts. 

It is important to understand that a large part of our architectural heritage is still unlisted and is being demolished rapidly. It would be best to save it from demolition but until that can be done, the least that we intend to do is to document them. It is a sad fact that we do not realize that Pakistan has numerous heritage sites that have the potential of drawing global attention. A number of towns here can be declared and turned into entire heritage sites. Shikarpur for instance can be restored and worked upon the way Toledo, a small town in Spain has been preserved and draws in large crowds of tourists.

Reimagining Pakistan continues to work for the preservation and promotion of the heritage of Pakistan. Join us in this journey!