A Night of Love, Laughter, and Legacy

Eid celebrations become truly joyous, extending beyond the main festival with the much-anticipated Eid Milap. This tradition allows families to continue the festivities, strengthening bonds and making the occasion even more special. Many families prefer to gather at a single home, ensuring everyone can exchange Eid greetings conveniently under one roof. This not only saves time but also fosters a warm and intimate atmosphere where relatives reconnect and celebrate together.

A recent Eid Milap gathering at the Red Hills residence of Syed Sirajuddin was a perfect example of this cherished tradition. The event was filled with laughter, warmth, and shared joy as family members came together to mark the occasion. The gathering provided an opportunity for relatives to catch up, exchange good wishes, and create lasting memories.

Such celebrations go beyond mere festivity; they reinforce family ties and uphold cultural values. The tradition of Eid Milap ensures that the spirit of Eid lingers, extending the joy of togetherness. The recent event at the pensioner’s home was a heartwarming reminder of how such gatherings strengthen family bonds, making the festival more meaningful and memorable for all who attended.

Sirajuddin’s house brimmed with life, warmth, and togetherness on the night of Eid Milap. It was a gathering that transcended generations, bringing young and old under one roof. Feasting, laughter, and love overflowed in abundance, making the evening truly unforgettable.

The center of attention was the host himself – Siraj Bhai, the grand patriarch of the family. Seated on his wheelchair, dressed immaculately in a white kurta-pyjama and his signature ‘lal Rumi topi,’ he was a picture of dignity and resilience. Though his face bore no expressions, his eyes reflected a quiet joy. His frail body and failing health could not dampen the spirit of the occasion. He remained silent, yet his presence spoke volumes. His children, grandchildren, siblings, nephews, and nieces gathered around him, cherishing every moment in his company.

Behind every successful venture there is a woman. And in this case it was Zakira Bhabi. This grand gathering was the quiet yet determined effort of Siraj Bhai’s doting wife. It was her idea, her initiative, and her careful planning that made this Eid Milap a reality. Of course she was ably assisted by her daughters, Shaila and Ghazala. But from the start to finish, it was Zakira Bhabi who orchestrated every detail, ensuring that everything was perfect. In a way, this was her Eid-ul-Fitr gift to her ailing husband – a chance for him to be surrounded by love, laughter, and the warmth of family bonds. Her efforts made the evening truly special, bringing everyone together in a celebration that would linger in their hearts for years to come.

Missing from the evening was his beloved sister, Sayeeda Anwari, whose absence was deeply felt. However, the rest of the family -Sayeeda Akhtari, Sayeeda Athari, Sayeeda Asgari, and his cousin brothers, J.S. Imtiaz Ahmed, J.S. Ifthekhar Ahmed, and Sohail – were all present with their families. They all took time off to be there, for this was more than just a gathering; it was a tribute to family ties that remained unbroken through time thanks to Allah (swt).

The event turned into a beautiful photo-op. Every family member wanted a picture with Siraj Bhai, freezing the moment in time. Despite his mobile battery running low, Ilyas Parvez captured the essence of the evening with his mobile, ensuring that these memories remained vivid for years to come.

A poignant sight during the gathering was little Fakhruddin, Sohail’s grandson, perched on Siraj Bhai’s lap. The image was striking – a frail old man, whose hands trembled with age, holding an innocent child full of life. It was a perfect depiction of the generational gap, a reminder of the cycle of life where time flows relentlessly, passing the torch from one era to the next. Fakhruddin, oblivious to the significance of the moment, played with his tiny fingers, while Siraj Bhai, though silent, seemed to find comfort in his grandson’s warmth.

Soon, the tantalizing aroma of food filled the air, signaling the start of a grand feast. Plates overflowed with rich, fragrant chicken biryani, dahi ki chutney, and baigan ka salan. And, of course, no Eid Milap was complete without the velvety sweetness of sheerkhurma. The laughter and chatter continued as everyone relished the meal. While others dined together on the dastarkhwan, Siraj Bhai ate separately, lovingly fed by the devoted Sajjad – a silent testament to the deep bond between father and son.

Conversations carried on well past midnight. Parvez, Owais, and Ikram animatedly discussed technology, while Imtiaz and I delved into religion. Arshad Ayub remained glued to the cricket match on his mobile. Sohail regaled Siraj Bhai with old anecdotes, evoking rare smiles from him. The women, seated together, shared stories and laughter, with Akhtar Aapa keeping them captivated with her endless family tales.

A surprise call from Syed Tajuddin, Siraj Bhai’s elder son in Dubai, connected everyone together virtually, adding yet another layer of joy to the evening.

Cherish every moment, for moments are fleeting. This occasion, I am sure, will remain ever vivid and heartwarming.

عید کا مزہ ہے اپنوں کے ساتھ رہنے میں

خوشیاں بکھرتی ہیں گھر کے سائے میں

Eid  ka  maza hai apnoun ke saath rahne mein

Khushiyan bikharti hain ghar ke saaye mein

(The joy of Eid is in being near

Happiness spreads when family is here)