By Sabahat Sarwar
Sameer Ali Khan, a young changemaker from Karachi, has been actively working since 2021 to promote religious and cultural diversity, with a special focus on youth engagement. Believing in unity through inclusion, he aims to foster interfaith harmony and mutual respect among communities. His initiatives encourage dialogue between people of different faiths and cultures, especially among the younger generation. He advocates for embracing diversity as a strength, not a division—building a society where every identity is respected and valued. Through his efforts, Sameer continues to inspire youth to lead with empathy, challenge prejudice, and contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious Pakistan.
On a warm, spirited morning in Karachi, the city’s cultural heartbeat echoed through the lush gardens of Frere Hall, where Team Safar Buddies the organizers of the Karachi Diversity Tour brought together an enthusiastic group of participants from diverse backgrounds. The gathering was more than just a meet-up; it was a celebration of shared identities, cultures, and perspectives, set against the backdrop of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. As we assembled under the soaring arches of Frere Hall, a timeless symbol of Karachi’s colonial and artistic legacy, the air was filled with excitement and curiosity. Participants exchanged introductions, each person bringing a unique story. It was a vibrant mosaic of Pakistan’s diversity—Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, Pashtun, and beyond—gathered under one roof, not just to explore the city, but to celebrate the richness of human difference.
Sameer Ali Khan, the visionary behind the Karachi Diversity Tour, welcome everyone. His words carried depth and sincerity as he spoke about the importance of diversity—not as a challenge, but as a strength. “When we embrace diversity,” he said, “we create space for empathy, creativity, and unity.
Our tour began with a meaningful visit to the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. As we entered the grand Gothic structure, we were warmly welcomed by the church’s Father, who shared inspiring thoughts on interfaith harmony. He spoke about the importance of living together peacefully and playing our part in building a more united world. His message deeply resonated with all of us. After his talk, we were guided through the cathedral, where the stunning stained glass, towering ceilings, and historic altar created a powerful atmosphere of reflection and reverence.
After exploring the magnificent St. Patrick’s Cathedral, our journey continued to one of Karachi’s most historically significant landmarks—the Quaid-e-Azam House Museum. Also known as Flagstaff House, this beautifully preserved colonial-era building once served as the residence of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, and his sister, Fatima Jinnah. The museum offers a rare glimpse into the personal life and legacy of Quaid-e-Azam. The house, built in the 19th century with classic colonial architecture, now displays a curated collection of furniture, photographs, and artifacts that belonged to the Father of Nation.
Our final stop for the day was the majestic Mohatta Palace Museum, a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Karachi. This grand structure, built in 1927 by wealthy Hindu businessman Shivratan Mohatta. Designed in an elegant combination of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, the palace is crafted with pink Jodhpur stone and local yellow Gizri stone, creating a stunning blend of color and craftsmanship. After the partition of India, the palace came under government use and was later transformed into a museum. Today, the Mohatta Palace Museum stands as a hub of art, history, and heritage, hosting exhibitions that celebrate Pakistan’s rich cultural past. During our visit, we not only explored the beautifully restored interiors and intricate architecture but also had the opportunity to view an engaging exhibition showcasing historical artifacts, traditional art, and contemporary works. The experience offered a perfect conclusion to our day, blending architectural beauty with deep historical insight.
