‘City on Fire: A Boyhood in Aligarh’ Sheds Light on Overlooked Lives of Locksmiths
Abdullah Salam
ALIGARH — Renowned filmmaker, author, and journalist Zeyad Masroor Khan unveils a compelling narrative in his latest book, ‘City on Fire: A Boyhood in Aligarh,’ delving into the often-neglected lives of locksmiths in the old city of Aligarh. The book explores the challenges faced by these workers, whose identities are obscured by a perpetual layer of black grease paint.
Set against the backdrop of the transformative 1990s, Khan, who spent his childhood in the Muslim-dominated area of the old part of Aligarh, intertwines tales of political, cultural, and economic shifts that shaped the era. One remarkable story unfolds the saga of a dwarf dacoit, recognized as the wealthiest outlaw in Aligarh’s criminal history, who constructed a fortress on the city’s outskirts. The fortress, with narrow paths resembling caves, was accessible only to the dwarf, making it an impenetrable refuge.
The narrative also vividly depicts the locksmith community, illustrating the challenges of distinguishing one worker from another due to the ubiquitous black paint used in their craft. Khan explores the dense settlement of Aligarh, particularly in Nai Upar Kot, where three distinct types of houses line the streets: those of workers, businessmen, and factory owners.
Describing the living conditions of the workers, Khan notes, “The poor houses belong to the workers, and their walls are waiting for the day when the owners will get them painted. The curtains on the windows are made of old sheets or jute sacks. The stairs are narrow and dark.” In contrast, affluent houses owned by a select group of businessmen and factory owners stand tall and conspicuous, symbols of prosperity.
‘City on Fire’ not only captures the essence of a bygone era in Aligarh but also brings to light the nuanced lives of its residents. The book serves as a literary window into the forgotten stories of a community often overshadowed by grand narratives of history.
The work is a poignant exploration of a city and its people, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the intricate tapestry of Aligarh’s cultural and social history.