Located on M.A. Jinnah road, Urdu bazaar is one of the oldest book markets not just in Pakistan but in the entire subcontinent. Some business owners here are third- and fourth-generation immigrants from India, who began selling books in the area. Initially, it was a small market, comprising 10 to 15 small rustic stalls which were originally located at Mission Road at the time of Independence.

It was in the 1950s that the market shifted to its present-day location. The bazaar is a hub for all services related to printing and publishing, with wholesalers selling paper, stationary and other materials required in the publishing industry. Still present in this market are publishers who have been printing Islamic and books on religion for over 50 years.– (Photos by Hussain Afzal/White Star)

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