'For readers, by bookworms': Hyderabad’s Haziq and Mohi Bookstore, a nostalgia of values

Hyderabad: Nestled in the narrow lanes of Hyderabad’s Murgi Chowk, lies a hidden gem that has stood the test of time. Haziq and Mohi Bookstore, a name synonymous with history and heritage, is a haven for book enthusiasts, offering a treasure trove of rare and antique books that span languages and eras.

Established over six decades ago by Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bafanna, this bookstore has become a cherished part of Hyderabad's cultural tapestry, preserving knowledge and wisdom from around the world.

A Timeless Collection:

With its origins tracing back to the mid-20th century, Haziq and Mohi Bookstore boasts a collection of more than 10,000 books that have weathered the years. These books encompass a diverse array of subjects, including history, philosophy, mysticism, religion, medicine, and Islamic art and architecture.

What sets this bookstore apart is its extensive selection of texts in Urdu, Arabic, and Persian, making it a unique resource for scholars and enthusiasts of these languages.

Among the prized possessions within these hallowed shelves are rare Persian, Arabic, and Urdu dictionaries, invaluable tools for linguistic exploration. For those seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of these languages, Haziq and Mohi provide an unrivaled opportunity to delve into the past.

Preserving a Family Legacy:

The bookstore's founder, Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bafanna, was not only a bibliophile but also a scholar proficient in multiple languages, including French, German, English, Persian, and Arabic.

His deep love for books and languages motivated him to establish this literary sanctuary. To ensure that these books found their way into the hands of passionate readers, he named the bookstore after a famous Sufi master, a nod to the spiritual and intellectual journey that books can offer.

After Ahmed's passing, his younger brother, Khaled Bafanna, took up the mantle of preserving and continuing the legacy of Haziq and Mohi. It was no small feat, as the collection had grown over the years, requiring meticulous organization and care. Khaled Bafanna's dedication ensured that this repository of knowledge remained accessible to those who sought it.

A Literary Mention:

The significance of Haziq and Mohi Bookstore extends beyond its physical confines. Renowned author William Dalrymple mentioned this establishment in his literary masterpiece, "The White Mughal."

In his book, Dalrymple narrates his accidental discovery of the bookstore while on a quest for literature on Bidri art. This mention solidified the bookstore's place in the annals of literary history.

Challenges and a Bright Future:

While Haziq and Mohi Bookstore continues to thrive as a cherished institution, it faces challenges in the modern age. The sheer volume of books in the collection has led to space constraints, hindering the addition of new acquisitions.

However, this does not deter the bookstore's loyal patrons, who recognize it as one of the last bastions for rare books related to Urdu literature and Hyderabad's history.

The bookstore's convenient location near the iconic Charminar makes it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike. It serves as a reminder that in the age of digital information, there is no substitute for the tangible, timeless allure of a physical book.

Haziq and Mohi Bookstore stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature and the indomitable spirit of those who dedicate their lives to preserving knowledge.

In a world where information is often fleeting, this hidden gem in Hyderabad continues to be a beacon for those seeking the wisdom contained within the pages of rare and antique books.

As you explore the historic streets around Charminar, don't miss the opportunity to step into Haziq and Mohi Bookstore—a place where the past meets the present, and where every book is a window into the richness of human culture and thought.