MAPPING KARACHI’S CULINARY IDENTITY: A LINGUISTIC LANDSCAPE ANALYSIS OF PLACE-NAMED FOOD SPECIALTIES

Abstract

Karachi’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of regional and global culinary influences. Using qualitative research design, this study aims to analyze and document the linguistic landscape of place-named food specialties through the lens of toponomastics which is the study of place names. The data was collected from seven major areas from each district in the city using the field notes and photographic documentation. Around hundred photos were collected for the analysis of food names. This research helps understand how place-names, both local and international, reflect multicultural diversity of the metropolitan city. The findings reveal that Karachi’s linguistic landscape brings a diverse range of food specialties from different origins. The study concludes that the linguistic landscape of food in the city is a dynamic reflection of its worldwide connectedness and socio-cultural variety.