Hyderabad's Karachi Bakery vandalized, tension over name change

A group of BJP workers partially vandalized the premises of the historic Karachi Bakery located in Hyderabad's Shamshabad area on Sunday. They protested in front of the bakery while shouting 'anti-Pakistan' slogans. This is the second incident in the wake of India-Pakistan tensions after the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Earlier, similar protests and demonstrations were seen in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

This bakery, one of the most popular in South India, is mainly famous for its fruit biscuits. But recently, it has been embroiled in various controversies just because of the name 'Karachi'. Although the owners of the bakery have clearly stated that they have no connection with Pakistan. The name Karachi has been kept for historical reasons, which is related to their family roots from the time of Partition.

BJP workers claim that since the name of the bakery is 'Karachi', it represents Pakistan, so the name should be changed immediately. But the current owners of Karachi Bakery, Rajesh and Harish Ramnani, say that the establishment was started in 1953 in Hyderabad by their grandfather Khanchand Ramnani. He fled Karachi, Pakistan, to India during the partition. To retain the memories and roots of that time, he named the bakery ‘Karachi Bakery’.

In a statement, the owners said, “Karachi Bakery is a 100% Indian brand. It was established in Hyderabad in 1953. Our name is part of history, not nationality. We are Indians, working with love for the people of India.”

Following the recent protests and vandalism, the bakery has sought security and assistance from Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and state police DG Dr. Jitender. They have expressed concern that their establishment will not be targeted again and again if India-Pakistan diplomatic relations deteriorate.

 The owners also appeal to the general public to stay by their side and understand that this brand is Karachi in name only, but in reality it is purely Indian.