Zahiruddin

Mr. Zahiruddin, born in 1918, helps to manage the renowned Karim's Restaurant near Jama Masjid in New Delhi, which was founded by his grandfather. Mr. Zahiruddin remembers the decorated tram that ran from Jama Masjid to locations across the city, and recalls when all tongas were replaced with cycle rickshaws. He expresses a great fondness for his neighborhood, and the fellow-feeling among its communities. In 1947, curfews imposed throughout the city caused the family restaurant to lose business. They sold their valuables and heirlooms. After 1947, the family worked laboriously to reestablish the restaurant. Young Mr. Zahiruddin began learning the restaurant trade from his father while in grade school. He shares that it is his belief that hard work is key, and that people ought to work to support one another, especially through difficult times.