Bengaluru: Karachi Bakery faces backlash amid ceasefire talks between India and Pakistan

As India and Pakistan observe a fragile ceasefire along the border, tensions have spilled onto the streets with renewed calls to rename Karachi Bakery, a well-known chain with outlets across the country, including one in Indira Nagar, Bengaluru.

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The backlash comes amid rising public sentiment to remove any reference to Karachi, a city in Pakistan. Protesters argue that such names are inappropriate at a time when relations with Pakistan remain tense. In response to the growing anger, the bakery staff displayed national and state flags outside the store, affirming their loyalty to India.

Established over 70 years ago by a Sindhi migrant who fled from Karachi during the Partition, Karachi Bakery has clarified that its name reflects the founder’s heritage, not any political stance or allegiance to Pakistan. The management emphasized that the name is a part of its history and identity.

Despite this clarification, the bakery has faced mounting pressure, leading to an appeal to local police for security amid concerns over staff safety and potential vandalism.

The incident highlights the volatile mix of public emotion and geopolitics, even in spaces like food businesses. Karachi Bakery, known for its signature biscuits and sweets, remains a beloved institution to many, though its name has now unexpectedly become a flashpoint in a broader national debate.