Jewel in the Crown

By Tahir S. Attarwala  (Dec 23 2001 The NEWS)
From ridha clad bohra ladies to children totting remote control toys, Frere hall (now referred to as Liaquat /hall) has an allure of its own.. The legacy of the otherwise little known legislator, the old Victorian structure retains the capacity of making its visitors transcend time.

With a cool breeze wafting through the lawns, on a late winter night with just a hint of fog, it is all too easy to sit back and imagine the gothic structure as if it were just being constructed. Indeed, one can almost visualize Frere himself through mists of time, watching the workers putting final touches to the grand structure, standing tall, proud of his accomplishment, secure in the knowledge that long after he is gone, the city’s town hall would keep his name alive. 

Originally constructed to commemorate the services of Commissioner-in-Sinde, Bartle Frere in 1865, the building accommodated the first municipal library, started by Frere in 1852 and displayed the collection of artifacts initiated by Charles Napier. The first floor wall was used for public meetings, lecturers, balls, concerts and dramatic entertainment. 

Currently, the two storied Venetian gothic building now houses the Liaquat Municipal Library on the ground floor and an art gallery on the upper storey. Named after one of Pakistan’s renowned artists, Sadequain, the gallery displays a permanent collection of the artist’s work. Sadequain spent the last years of his life painting a huge mural on the ceiling of the gallery but, sadly, did not live to complete it.

Long after it outgrew its original function of a town hall, Frere Hall proves to be a centre for diverse cultural and social activities ranging from art shows to horticulture exhibitions.  Currently, its lush green lawns are playing host to one of Karachi’s biggest book fairs.  Every Sunday from early morning to past nine in the night, Frere Hall is a hub of activity as booksellers dealing in both old and new books converge from all over the city, come here to sell their myriad wares. Book stalls by the dozens, dotted with invaluable nuggets waiting to be discovered by the discerning customer are assuredly a feast for any bibliophile’s eyes. 

If one is well versed in the art of haggling then real treasures can b procured at a fraction of their true literary value.  This is especially true at late night as by that time most sellers are interested only in getting rid of their stock.

Originally started at Frere Hall, the book fair was shifted to Bara Dari by the KMC. However, since Bara Dari is off route for most buses, it created problems for both customers as well as sellers.  As a result, the fair at its new locale could retain only a fraction of its former popularity.

Credit goes to the new city government for reversing the decision allowing the fair to revert back to its former location. 

So, whether one is an avid book lover or just wants to gaze at the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era, Frere hall offers a little something to everyone. 

It is indeed a fitting tribute to the majesty of a great city