A visit to the Arambagh furniture market in Karachi is mandatory for those looking to purchase exclusive, custom-made furniture. Interestingly, the history behind the establishment of the furniture market in Arambagh is not very well-known among the residents of Karachi.

The original name for the market was “Ram Bagh” because according to Hindu tradition, Ram and Sita spent some time here on their way to Hinglaj, located in Balochistan. The area became a site of historical and religious importance for the Hindus in the city, which is why pre-Partition, many Hindus lived here. According to legend, it was also used as a cremation ground by the Hindus.

The furniture market emerged when the Hindus in the area sold their belongings – mostly furniture – and moved to India. Thus, a small market of old and used furniture was established. Currently, the Arambagh furniture market is the largest and oldest market for first-hand furniture in the city. – Text by Suhail Yusuf and Rameezuddin Ahmed, photographs by Hussain Afzal/White Star