PIDC’s Paan — A Karachi Folktale

Written by Shariq Ali
Valueversity

This is the story of a legendary paan (betel leaf) shop in Karachi’s PIDC area — a tale that still lives on in the memories and conversations of the city’s elders and long-time residents.

It is not a formally documented history, but rather part of Karachi’s oral folklore — stories passed down from generation to generation through word of mouth.

It is said that there was once a woman known as “Amma” who sold paan here. Her real name was Maryam Bibi.
Before the creation of Pakistan, she served as the personal paan maker for the Begum of Nawab Husain Ganj in Lucknow.

Her skills were renowned — softening lime by mixing it with milk, carefully selecting the finest betel leaves, delicately wrapping sweet fillings in silver foil, and maintaining a perfect balance of spices. These touches reflected her refined, almost royal taste.

Her son, Sharif, was also well known for his stylish flair — the graceful, rhythmic movement of his hands while preparing the paan was a sight in itself.

In 1961, they set up a small paan stall near PIDC, which later became the famous shop known as “Sharif & Amma Paan House.”

Whether it was a wedding, Eid, or any celebration, people would eagerly say,
“Let’s go have the famous PIDC paan!”

It is said that in those days, Amma herself would lovingly serve paan to customers with her own hands.

After Amma’s passing on April 19, 1982, the shop remained, but the warmth, grace, and unique charm she brought to it were never quite the same.

This tale remains part of Karachi’s nostalgic past and its rich traditions.
Whether it is fact or mere folklore, only historians can decide.

I have simply shared what I’ve heard.
True or fictional, this story still lives on in the hearts of Karachi’s people ، beating with every memory of the old city.