Today, we’ll explore about the historical Urdu Bazar of Lahore. This market is a hub for people who love books. The reasons why this market was named Urdu Bazaar are also very interesting. In this article, we will do a complete study on the history of Urdu Bazar Lahore, the economic impact and the cultural importance of this market.

Lahore Urdu Bazar: Overview and History

Historical importance

Urdu Bazaar (a major market in the walled city of Delhi) was also very famous, and this market of Lahore also took inspiration from it. After the Indian War of Independence of 1857, the name of this area started changing. At that time this market was a big center of books, from where Urdu literature and printing work was spreading a lot. Mohammad Bakh Sahib started printing work for the first time, which gave a new direction to the literary history of Urdu Bazar Lahore.

Why is Urdu Bazar called Urdu Bazar?

Earlier, this place was named Mohanlal Road, which was then a big book bazar. The printing work here started from Gulab Singh’s press. Gulab Singh had two sons—Mohanlal and Sohanlal. Mohanlal’s name became the name of this market. In the 1850s, this place became a big printing hub. When Pakistan was formed, it got another name—Urdu Bazar. The history of this name is also somehow connected to the Hindu and Muslim printing industry.

(Lahorenama, 2012)

Development and structure of the bazar

In the old days, books, publicity papers and documents were prepared here. Even now this market is full of hundreds of shops, which deal with books, stationery, binding etc. Today there are more than 4000 shops here, and this market is a living hall of the literary life of India and Pakistan.

Economic Impact of Urdu Bazar Pakistan

Economy of the market

This market is a major economic center of Lahore and Pakistan. Every year billions of rupees worth of business is done from here. Thousands of books, copies and stationery items are exported all over the world. This market is considered to be the largest center of book trade in Pakistan and its economic importance is no less.

Business activities

New and old books, files, printing, binding and stationery are traded here. Many shopkeepers have very large floors, and they have a large stock of old books. The books and copies coming out of this market are sold very well not only in Pakistan but all over the world. The advent of digital technology has also affected these markets, but it is still vibrant.

Source of employment

This market provides employment to lakhs of people. From small shops to big printer shops, everyone is a part of it. The small and big shops associated with this market are the support of thousands of families. The work of printing, selling and keeping books in the library goes on smoothly.

Cultural and Educational Impact

Linguistic diversity and preservation

This market is not just for Urdu, but books of languages like English, Persian, Pashto, Punjabi and Saraiki are available here. This shows the diversity of culture. This place also works for linguistic preservation, where books of every language are available.

Center of literature and education

Many poets and litterateurs come here every year. The new generation gets a chance to learn and read from here. Old and rare educational books are safe here, which keeps the history alive. The literary environment here makes the youth curious, and inspires them to write new poems and stories.

Museum of books

This market is a treasure trove of old and rare books. Some books are centuries old, which shows a glimpse of history. The preservation of these books is the most special thing about this market, because these classics are invaluable for the coming generations.

Prominent Personalities and Expert Opinions

Khalid Pravez’s observation

Khalid Pravez, President of Urdu Bazaar, says that this market has a big impact on Pakistan’s economy. The taxes and business generated from here are worth millions of dollars. He believes that this market is also a big base for education and literature. Despite being such a big market, a combination of both traditional art and modern technology is seen here.

Experts’ view

Literaturers and historians say that this market is not only a center for books, but is also very helpful in cultural preservation. Even today new books are printed here and old books are easily available. In the coming times, there is a need to strengthen this market even more, so that our heritage can be protected.

Conclusion and Suggestions

History of Urdu Bazar Lahore is not just a tale of the past, but is also a vibrant cultural center. The things printed in it, books and business are still alive today. Youngsters should become a part of this market and carry forward its traditions. Even in the digital age, books give us both knowledge and hobby. Preservation of traditional art is important, but new technologies should also be used.
Develop a love of reading and help strengthen this historic market. This will protect our culture and cultural heritage.

Last Words: History of Urdu Bazar Lahore

Urdu Bazaar is a priceless treasure of Lahore, which is a part of our cultural heritage. Cherish it, read it and carry it forward, so that its charm remains forever. Read, understand and keep the history of Urdu Bazar Lahore alive.

Related Article: Urdu Bazar: A Major Book Market in the Region