Once Upon A Time In Karachi

Across the borders of a changing subcontinent, an inspiring story began long before lines were drawn on maps.
It is the story of a family whose surname—Sharif—would come to symbolize art, performance, dedication, and achievement in both India and Pakistan.
From the vibrant cultural landscape of pre-Partition India emerged Syed Iftikhar Ahmed Sharif (1920–1995), known to the world simply as Iftekhar. One of the most distinguished actors of Indian cinema, he appeared in more than 400 films and delivered unforgettable performances in classics such as Don, Deewar, Zanjeer, Sholay, and many others. Whether portraying a police commissioner, judge, or respected elder, Iftekhar Sahab brought dignity, grace, and authenticity to every role. Beyond acting, he was also a singer, painter, and poet.
The Sharif family was blessed with three brothers—Syed Iftikhar Ahmed Sharif, Syed Imtiaz Ahmed Sharif, and Syed Mushtaq Ahmed Sharif—each leaving his own remarkable mark in different fields.
Then came Partition, and with it, different paths for the same family.
While Iftekhar Sahab continued his remarkable journey in Mumbai and became one of Bollywood's most respected character actors, his two younger brothers Syed Imtiaz Ahmed Sharif (1926–1987) and Syed Mushtaq Ahmed Sharif chose to settle in Karachi after Partition.
Syed Imtiaz Ahmed Sharif began his artistic journey in Karachi and became a respected television artist in Pakistan. His memorable appearance in the iconic drama Tanhaiyan and other television productions earned him recognition among Pakistani audiences and added another proud chapter to the Sharif family's creative legacy.
Syed Mushtaq Ahmed Sharif made his mark in the world of aviation. A professional pilot, he served for 42 years—10 years with the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and 32 years with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). He was notably the first pilot to fly an aircraft to Gilgit, becoming part of Pakistan’s aviation history.
Carrying forward the legacy of this remarkable family is Syed Yörgüç Tipu Sharif, son of Syed Mushtaq Ahmed Sharif. Born on October 24, 1978, Tipu Sharif followed the family's artistic tradition and established himself as a television artist in Pakistan. Alongside his creative journey, he also pursued higher education and holds an MBA degree from the prestigious Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi.
Three brothers.
Different journeys.
One remarkable family legacy.
From cinema and television to aviation and education, the Sharif family represents dedication, talent, and achievement across generations.
Two countries.
Two great cities—Mumbai and Karachi.
One enduring family name: Sharif.
Time has changed borders, skylines, and generations. Yet the achievements and stories of families like the Sharifs continue to connect people across history.
A tribute to Syed Iftikhar Ahmed Sharif, Syed Imtiaz Ahmed Sharif, Syed Mushtaq Ahmed Sharif, and Syed Yörgüç Tipu Sharif—a family whose legacy reminds us that while history may divide maps, it cannot divide heritage.

Marie Colaco School, Saddar, Karachi — A Forgotten Chapter of Karachi’s Educational Heritage
Marie Colaco School was once one of Karachi’s most respected and renowned educational institutions, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the city’s academic history.
The school was founded by Ms. Marie Colaco, who established the institution in Saddar, Karachi, with the vision of providing quality education to the younger generation. Later, Mr. Qureshi, (1918-1989) a well-known educationist, businessman, and philanthropist, Born in Rajkot, Kathiawar, Gujrat. He had no formal education. Moved to Karachi in 1938 acquired the school and played a significant role in expanding its educational activities. Mr. Qureshi was also the founder of Qureshi High School and Islamia College, and under his leadership, a wider network of educational institutions developed across Karachi.
In its early years, Marie Colaco School was located opposite the historic Methodist Church on Victoria Road, Saddar. Later, it shifted to its more familiar and well-remembered location at Depot Lines, Saddar, situated at the left-hand corner facing the historic Seventh-day Adventist Hospital. The school soon became known for its discipline, academic standards, and commitment to character-building.
The Marie Colaco educational network became an important part of Karachi’s educational landscape. Its branches, including the later campus established in Nazimabad No. 4, provided education to thousands of students from diverse communities and backgrounds.
Over the decades, the school produced many distinguished personalities who went on to achieve greatness in different fields. Among its notable alumni were:
Waheed Murad — one of Pakistan’s most celebrated film actors and a legendary icon of the silver screen.
Zahid Hussain — the respected sports journalist.
Islahuddin Siddiqui — former captain of the Pakistan hockey team and one of the country’s greatest hockey players.
Hanif Mohammad, Mushtaq Mohammad, and Sadiq Mohammad — three legendary brothers who became icons of Pakistan cricket.
Tanveer Jamshed — founder of the famous TeeJays brand.
The institutions established by Mr. Qureshi — including Marie Colaco School, Qureshi High School, and Islamia College — played a vital role in shaping generations of students who later contributed to Pakistan’s fields of sports, cinema, journalism, business, education, and professional life.
Sadly, the original Marie Colaco School building in Saddar no longer exists, as it has been demolished, marking the loss of another historic landmark of old Karachi. However, the memories of its students, the achievements of its alumni, and the dedication of its founders continue to preserve its legacy.
Marie Colaco School remains a cherished chapter in Karachi’s educational history — a symbol of discipline, excellence, and the countless dreams that were nurtured within its walls.

A Rare Glimpse into St. Jude’s School, Block P, North Nazimabad Hussain D'Silva Town, Karachi – Late 1970s
This cherished photograph takes us back to the late 1970s and features two memorable personalities from St. Jude’s School, Seen in the picture are Mrs. Cunningham, the respected Principal of the Primary Section, and Sir Ansar, the school’s Physical Training (PT) teacher. Mrs. Cunningham was known for her discipline, strict standards, and dedication to maintaining academic excellence, while Sir Ansar played an important role in promoting physical fitness, discipline, and teamwork among students.
For many former students, these names bring back memories of a time when respect for teachers, punctuality, discipline, and good manners were considered essential parts of education. Mrs. Cunningham's strict yet caring approach and Sir Ansar's commitment to physical training left a lasting impression on generations of students.
St. Jude’s School was once among the most prominent educational institutions in the area, helping shape countless young minds who later went on to serve Pakistan and communities across the world.
Do you remember Mrs. Cunningham, Sir Ansar, or your days at St. Jude’s School?