Why are Parsi Cafe’s closing

“Steamed rice with kebab, grilled tomatoes, green peppers, and a small block of butter wrapped in parchment paper.”
Chelow kebab, due to its pleasant taste and aroma, has long been a hallmark of Iranian cafés in Karachi, but these café-restaurants, once symbols of enjoyment, cultural refinement, and delightful flavors, are now steadily declining. Although Iranians have been migrating to the Indian subcontinent for centuries, their presence in urban life and modern businesses in cities like Karachi began in the early 20th century.

Marvi Mazhar, an architect and researcher, explains: “The 20th century was a turbulent era for Iran, marked by revolutions, wars, droughts, and economic hardships. Many Iranians migrated in search of a better future and were warmly welcomed in cities like Mumbai and Karachi. It was during this time that Iranian café-restaurants took root in these cities.”

May 3, 2025 | 7:15 am