The devastating fire that broke out at Gul Plaza on M.A. Jinnah Road, Karachi, late on Saturday night has left the city mourning not only the loss of lives and livelihoods but also the destruction of a place deeply woven into Karachi’s collective memory. Actress Minal Khan expressed heartfelt grief over the incident, saying that watching Gul Plaza burn felt like witnessing a part of the city’s shared childhood and memories turning to ash.
In her emotional statement, Minal Khan described Gul Plaza as far more than a commercial structure. According to her, the building lived inside every Karachiite’s home, carrying memories of family shopping trips, childhood excitement, and the simple joy of walking through crowded corridors filled with life. She said that seeing the plaza engulfed in flames was painful, as it symbolized the loss of a place that held personal meaning for millions.
The fire erupted late Saturday evening and spread rapidly through the multi-storey building, fueled by flammable materials stored inside the shops. Thick smoke and intense flames made it difficult for many people to escape. Rescue teams worked relentlessly for hours, risking their own lives to save those trapped inside and to control the blaze under extremely hazardous conditions.
Minal Khan expressed deep sorrow for the victims and their families, emphasizing that behind every tragic headline were individuals whose lives had been permanently altered. She offered prayers for those who lost their loved ones and for the injured who continue to recover. Her words reflected the collective grief of a city struggling to come to terms with the magnitude of the tragedy.
The actress also highlighted how Gul Plaza was a symbol of Karachi’s vibrant culture. It was a place where people from all walks of life came together — shopkeepers, customers, workers, and families — creating a unique atmosphere that defined the city’s spirit. For many small traders, the plaza was not just a workplace but their only source of income, making the loss even more devastating.
Public response to Minal Khan’s statement was overwhelming. Many citizens shared similar emotions, recalling their own memories tied to Gul Plaza. Social media was filled with stories of childhood visits, family outings, and long-standing businesses that had operated there for decades. Her message resonated deeply with those who saw the plaza as a part of their personal history.
The tragedy has once again raised serious concerns about fire safety and building regulations in Karachi. Minal Khan stressed that such heartbreaking incidents must lead to accountability and reform. She urged authorities to ensure that safety standards are enforced so that no other landmark — or lives — are lost due to negligence.
As investigations continue, Minal Khan’s words serve as a powerful reminder that Gul Plaza was not just a building of concrete and steel. It was a living part of Karachi’s identity. Its destruction has left a void that will be difficult to fill, as the city mourns a piece of its soul turned to ashes.
