Qissa Khwani Bazaar: The Storytellers' Market of Peshawar

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeخدا حافظ
  [khuda hafiz]
• Yesہاں
  [haan]
• Noنہیں
  [nahin]
• Please/You're welcomeمہربانی
  [mehrbani]
• Thank youشکریہ
  [shukriya]
• Excuse me/Sorryمعذرت
  [maazrat]
• How are you?آپ کیسے ہیں؟
  [aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ٹھیک ہوں۔ آپ؟
  [theek hoon. aap?]
• Do you speak English?کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟
  [kya aap angrezi boltay hain?]
• I don't understandمجھے سمجھ نہیں آیا
  [mujhe samajh nahi aya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دکھائیں
  [barah-e-karam menu dikhayen]
• I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
  [mein gosht nahi khata]
• Cheers!چیرز!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم بل دیں
  [barah-e-karam bill dein]

• Help!مدد!
  [madad!]
• Go away!چلو!
  [chalo!]
• Call the Police!پولیس کو بلاؤ!
  [police ko bulao!]
• Call a doctor!ڈاکٹر کو بلاؤ!
  [doctor ko bulao!]
• I'm lostمیں گم ہو گیا ہوں
  [mein gum ho gaya hoon]
• I'm illمیں بیمار ہوں
  [mein bemar hoon]

• I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں...
  [mein khareedna chahta hoon...]
• I'm just lookingمیں صرف دیکھ رہا ہوں
  [mein sirf dekh raha hoon]
• How much is it?یہ کتنے کا ہے؟
  [ye kitnay ka hai?]
• That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
  [ye bohat mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کرسکتے ہیں؟
  [kya aap qeemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?کتنے بجے ہیں؟
  [kitnay bajay hain?]
• It's one o'clockایک بجے ہیں
  [aik bajay hain]
• Half past (10)دس بج کر پندرہ منٹ ہو چکے ہیں
  [das baj kar pandrah minute ho chuke hain]
• Morningصبح
  [subah]
• Afternoonدوپہر
  [dopahar]
• Eveningشام
  [shaam]
• Yesterdayگزرا ہوا کل
  [guzra hua kal]
• Todayآج
  [aaj]
• Tomorrowکل
  [kal]
• 1ایک
  [aik]
• 2دو
  [do]
• 3تین
  [teen]
• 4چار
  [chaar]
• 5پانچ
  [paanch]
• 6چھے
  [chhe]
• 7سات
  [saat]
• 8آٹھ
  [aath]
• 9نو
  [no]
• 10دس
  [das]

• Where's a/the...?کہاں ہے...؟
  [kahan hai...?]
• What's the address?پتہ کیا ہے؟
  [pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?کیا آپ مجھے دکھا سکتے ہیں؟
  [kya aap mujhe dikhla sakte hain?]
• When's the next (bus)?اگلی بس کب ہے؟
  [agli bus kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (سے ....)
  [aik ticket (se ....)]

Qissa Khwani Bazaar, which translates to 'Storytellers' Market,' has been a cultural hub for centuries, known for its rich tradition of oral storytelling. Merchants and travelers would gather to share tales of their journeys, local folklore, and historical events, fostering a unique communal bond through storytelling.

Situated on the ancient Silk Road, Qissa Khwani Bazaar has historically been a vital trade route for merchants from Central Asia to the Indian subcontinent. This strategic location facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures, making it a melting pot of diverse influences that shaped the region's history.

During the British colonial period, Qissa Khwani Bazaar underwent significant changes. The British established a presence in Peshawar, leading to the modernization of the bazaar with new infrastructure and the introduction of British goods. This period marked a transition in the bazaar's identity, as it adapted to new economic conditions while retaining its cultural essence.

One of the most notable events in the history of Qissa Khwani Bazaar occurred on April 23, 1930, when British troops opened fire on a peaceful protest against colonial rule. The massacre resulted in numerous casualties and sparked widespread outrage, becoming a pivotal moment in the Indian independence movement and a symbol of resistance for many in the region.

In recent years, Qissa Khwani Bazaar has experienced a revival of interest in its cultural heritage. Efforts to restore traditional crafts, promote local cuisine, and support artisanal industries have transformed the bazaar into a vibrant destination for both locals and tourists, celebrating its historical significance while embracing modernity.

Qissa Khwani Bazaar is centrally located in Peshawar, making it accessible from various neighborhoods. From the Peshawar International Airport, you can take a taxi or a ride-hailing service directly to the bazaar, which takes about 30 minutes depending on traffic. If you are coming from the main bus terminals, local buses and auto-rickshaws frequently service routes to the bazaar. The Peshawar Railway Station is about 15 minutes away by taxi.

Qissa Khwani Bazaar is best explored on foot due to its narrow lanes and vibrant street life. Walking allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems. Local auto-rickshaws are available for short distances, while some visitors may opt to rent bicycles for a more leisurely exploration. Be cautious with traffic, as it can be chaotic.

Qissa Khwani Bazaar is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it is wise to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone late at night, particularly in less crowded areas. Pickpocketing can occur in busy markets, so keep your belongings secure. Areas around the bazaar are typically safe, but it's best to avoid the outskirts where crime rates may be higher.

In case of an emergency, dial 15 for police assistance or 1122 for medical emergencies. Hospitals and clinics are available within the city, but ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical costs. It's advisable to familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest medical facility while exploring the area.

Fashion: Do dress modestly to respect local customs. Women should consider wearing a scarf and long clothing. Religion: Do respect religious practices and sites. When entering mosques, remove your shoes and dress appropriately. Public Transport: Do be courteous and let others exit before boarding. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with 'As-salamu alaykum' and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local food, especially the famous chapli kebabs. Don't eat or drink in public during Ramadan, as it may offend local customs.

To experience Qissa Khwani Bazaar like a local, start your day with a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, sampling 'halwa puri.' Engage with shopkeepers and ask about their products, as many are eager to share their stories and the history behind their goods. Explore the nearby historical sites, such as the Peshawar Museum and the Mahabat Khan Mosque, which offer insight into the city’s rich heritage. Don't hesitate to try street food, but ensure it looks fresh and is from a busy vendor.