Written by: Marzia Bilwani
Posted on: February 01, 2019 | 
Located right in the heart of Karachi, near the busy streets of Saddar, is the Quaid-e-Azam House, also known as the Flagstaff House, the last abode of the founder of the nation, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Constructed in 1868, the limestone structure is more than 100 years old, and stands out amidst the hustle and bustle of the traffic on Fatima Jinnah Road.
The historic house comprises of gorgeous semicircular balconies, carved pillars, arched openings and red Mangalore tiles on the roof top. With six large rooms, the structure is supported by wooden trusses. The Jewish architect, Moses Somake, who designed the house, is also known for designing other famous buildings in Karachi, such as Bai Virbaijee Soparivala Parsi High School and Mules Mansion. Like many other buildings, Flagstaff House is a remnant of colonial architecture, and one can easily spot the similarities between structures from this era, such as the arched entrances of the Parsi High School and the Flagstaff House. In terms of material, the Frere Hall, located just a short distance away, has also been built in yellow limestone and has a similar façade. However, in contrast to structures built two decades earlier, like the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, local elements have found their way into the design of Flagstaff House such as the characteristic red rooftop.
In 1943, Muhammad Ali Jinnah purchased the house for the then large sum of Rs. 115,000 from its previous owner, the mayor of Karachi, Mr. Sohrab Kavasji Katrak. Earlier, it had been used as residential quarters for senior officers of the British Indian Army and was thus given the name of Flagstaff House. While Jinnah only lived there occasionally, Fatima Jinnah spent considerable years residing here after his death.
After taking a copy of my CNIC, the guard directed me to the rear garden of the house. A shaded entrance from the back side is now used as the main way to enter the building. A sign outside prohibits the possession of any weapons and all photography. Upon noticing my disappointment about the latter, the guide allowed me to take a few photographs of the inside.
On the ground floor of the house, we visited the drawing room, dining room, study and breakfast room. After purchasing this house, its furniture was especially transported from Jinnah’s house ‘South Court’ in Bombay, and showcases his sophisticated taste. Tables, chairs, beds, cabinets and sofa sets have all been preserved. Photographs of him with his sister, Fatima Jinnah, adorn the walls. Gifts from foreign dignitaries can also be seen. For instance, the guide told us that the crockery in the dining hall was gifted to the Quaid by the Chinese government.
We then walked upstairs via a wooden staircase, covered by a scarlet carpet. Family pictures of the Quaid’s daughter, Dina Wadia and Fatima Jinnah are displayed on the walls. Dina last visited the house about 14 years ago, in 2004, when President Musharraf invited her.
Upstairs, there were two bedrooms, each with its own set of unique possessions. Quaid’s room has a framed photograph of his wife, Rattanbai Jinnah, on the side table next to his bed. A copy of the Holy Quran, gifted to him by the Aligarh Muslim League, also lies on the bookshelf. On the other hand, Fatima Jinnah’s room has a large election poster put up with the symbol of a lantern.
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