While blazes engulf Gul Plaza, elites dance through it all a few kms away

As a deadly fire consumed Gul Plaza, claiming lives of so many people and destroying decades-old businesses, a sharply contrasting scene was witnessed just 6 kms away, sparking outrage across Karachi. 

While firefighters battled flames and families desperately waited for their loved ones to be rescued, a brunch event by Karachi Kidney Centre hosted at Beach Luxury Hotel went ahead as planned, with loud music, dancing and drinking in celebration of the event.

The sharp contrast in events that were happening at the same time just a few kilometers away from each other has ignited debate about privilege, empathy, and social responsibility in Pakistan. 

As smoke and flames filled the tragedy site, costing so many lives, attendees at the elites gathering appeared absolutely unaffected and detached from the horrific incident in the heart of the city. 

According to critics, such events are usually postponed or cancelled, out of respect, if such a tragedy hits any city or country, such as the Golden Globes in California have previously been postponed due to natural disasters, contrary to which, no such pause occurred here.

The guests of the event at Beach Luxury returned to their homes safely and happily after spending hours enjoying their time at the event, while the Gul Plaza affected families faced grief, uncertainty, and trauma. This contrast highlights a broader societal divide, with many questioning how celebrations could continue as lives were lost nearby.