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Zulaikha

Author: Manzar Quddisi

Translator: Farooqui

CHAPTER I

The Kamlapur animal fair was very famous. The fair used to be held at the bank of a water pool

and continued for one month. People used to attend the fair from remote places to buy and sell their

animals. The Government provided temporary electricity to the fair ground. The people in the fair were

only from villages and therefore, they mostly fought each other. Keeping such possibility in view, the

government also established a temporary police station which could settle their problems. For the

entertainment of the visitors, circus, boats and musical programmes were provided in the fair. There were

shops for daily needs. Hotels, ice cream, cold drink corners were also in the fair. The fair along with its

arrangements presented a shining look of a twinkling city for one month.

15 days had passed since the fair was organized. Every work was on its peak. Every one was

happy. Unexpectedly, at afternoon a storm blew from the west and within no time the dust covered the

whole fair. The strong wind started toppling every thing. The animals ran away breaking their ropes to

wherever they could. Many people were trampled under the feet of the animals. The tin sheds of the shops

flew high by the strong wind. The tents of the circus and cinema flew like kites and fell in the pool. The

cage of the lions became up side down and the doors flung open. They started roaring and roaming around

which added to the horrible situation of the fair. The grains and the all items of the hotels and tea stalls

were mixed up with dust. The pillars of the temporary electricity fell on the ground. Many people got stuck

in the wires of the pillars and fell down. It was like a scene of extreme chaos.

The police shows its alertness if the riots take place, but whenever a natural calamity befalls, they

also try to escape instead of helping victims. However, the roof of the police station collapsed and many

policemen were killed.

A poor shopkeeper named Baqir from Jagatpur was sitting in his shop of bedi and cigarette. His

wife was frying the pakodas. Her children were plying around her. When the storm blew up the cloth tent

flew up like a straw. The fry pan turned up side down. The stove was put out. Bedi, cigarette and

peppermint were scattered on the ground. Baqir and his wife controlled the bulls with great difficulty and

arranged the cart, seated the children in the cart. Running, pushing the people, facing the scared animals,

covering his face with a piece of cloth, keeping the children in the cart Baqir continued driving the cart and

eventually he came out of the fair ground.

Akbar of Ganganagar bought a cow and was about to leave for Ganganagar as he was struck in the

storm. The cow became out of control and started pulling the rope. Akbar fell on the ground. But soon he

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mustered up his courage and started walking wobbly. He hardly went some distance when he heard a low

voice saying Abba . As he turned towards the voice he saw a child coming towards him. Akbar caught

hold the rope by his left hand and picked up the child by his right hand. It was a girl child. She clung up to

Akbar. In the long run, Akbar came out of the storm.

Akbar talked to a bullock cart driver to take him to Ganganagar. After the dealing was settled,

Akbar tied the cow to the rear of the cart, and set in the cart himself. He reached his house early in the

morning. His wife opened the door. Seeing a child on his shoulder she was surprised and asked him whose

daughter he had brought in?

Let me take rest, I shall tell you all about the child Akbar said.

Akbar s wife went to kitchen and brought in a cup of tea. Giving him the cup she murmured:

You went to buy a cow. Did you buy the baby too?

Zainab, Akbar s wife had a look at the child; she was about six years old, white color, and had

prominent sharp figure. How much would be her mother disturbed!? And how much she would be

weeping!? Zainab thought.

Akbar told the whole story, and said he had become very tired that day. Tomorrow, he would go

to fair once again. Perhaps her father would also come there in his daughter s search. Saying these words,

Akbar stretched his legs and soon slept.

Zainab was gazing at the sleeping child. Her beauty fascinated and touched her heart. Meanwhile a

thought flashed in her mind that she should adopt her as she had no child since she got married. She

beseeched Allah to bestow His mercy upon her and under any circumstances the child would remain with

her.

The child woke up in the morning. Zainab gave her bath, combed her hair and got her attired in a

new shirt then the baby looked like a princess.

The storm was already gone by night but the people had still not come out of the shock. A

majority of them were still stunned and fearful of the storm. The shop keepers were worried as they had

lost their capitals. The poor owners of the animals were looking towards the sky as they were robbed of

every thing they had. The search of the animals had become another problem. The tent of the cinema had

become up side down and fell in the pool. The animals of the circus were roaming around. It was very

difficult to control them. The tension, worry and anxiety prevailed everywhere.

Akbar came to the fair, but he was shocked to see the scene. The trampled dead bodies were lying

everywhere. The articles were in a great mess. A happy congregation was totally ruined. Those who left

alive were in chaos that they could not think of themselves, how would they try to know about others?

Some more forces were also deployed but they did not know how they would control the situation. Akbar

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also went to the fair but it was impossible for him to ask someone about the found child. After a while he

came back to the house and told his wife about the situation that prevailed there and said:

We are at the will of Allah about the child. All that must be as He wills .

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CHAPTER II

The cart of Zulaikha s father reached a place where there was no effect of the storm. The wife of

Baqir; Hasina counted her children and was shocked to find out that one of them was missing. She cried:

stop.

Stop

stop stop the cart!

Zulaikha is not with us

She might be left in the fair. We have to go back to the fair and look for

her.

Baqir stopped the cart and said:

Have you become mad .? There is storm in the fair, nothing is on its place, how can we look

for Zulaikha now? If we do such stupidity we all shall die. Today we must go home; tomorrow we shall do

something for the daughter.

Hasina started weeping. Oh! My beautiful daughter!

Looking her weeping all the children started weeping. In fact, the love of a mother can not be

compared to that of father. A mother blindly loves her children. She jumps into the fire and does not let her

child suffer any harm. On the other hand the love of father towards his children is always practical; he takes

any step only after deep thinking in the matter. If Hasina was deriving the cart she would surely have

turned it towards the fair place. At this instant she also wanted to jump down from the cart but her concern

about the rest children stopped her doing so. Therefore, sitting in the cart she kept on weeping.

Next day Baqir came to the fair. It was such a pandemonium in the fair place as if the Day of

Judgment had come. Every one was in bewilderment. Searching everywhere, Baqir came where he had

pitched his tent. There was nothing. In panicky condition he wandered everywhere and asked people about

his missing daughter. They were also panic stricken like him; they would nod their heads or hands and then

went away. Finally, having been tired he came back to his home disappointedly. Hasina was sitting at

threshold of the door waiting for Baqir s arrival impatiently. When she saw him pulling long face and

alone, she asked him sorrowfully.

What happened to my daughter?

Baqir made her aware of the fair s situation. She wept bitterly. Even Baqir could not resist his

sentiments and he also wept out. After he gave vent to his feelings and felt relaxed Baqir looked towards

the sky and said:

Only Allah knows whether she is alive or the storm has thrown her into pool!

No, No. Do not utter like this, protesting Hasina said.

She added: I think she is alive and perhaps someone has taken her.

May Allah make it happen so! I shall search her Baqir said.

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Baqir went to Kamalapur. He knocked at every door and asked abut her missing daughter. He

visited the police station of that area, but everywhere he got disappointed. However, after searching for 15

to 20 days, both Baqir and Hasina resigned to their fate.

One day when an Imam of a mosque delivered the lecture on the topic of patience of prophet

Yaqub (peace be upon him) over missing of his son Yusuf (peace be upon him)

he kept patience and

believed that Zulaikha would come to him one day if she was alive. He came back his home and said to

Hasina that Allah was aware of our sorrowful condition, anxiety and grief. He would surely bestow His

mercy upon us.

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CHAPTER III

Zainab asked the child her name. She told her name was Zulaikha .

You are really Zulaikha; you are a blessing of God for me, embracing her Zainab said.

Meantime Zainab became sad for she thought that one day her parents perhaps would come and

take her back, and thereafter her home would be deserted.

Ganganagar was a small village. There was mixed population of Hindu and Muslims.

Professionally the people were farmers. Akbar had a cycle shop to run his household. He was punctual of

Islamic obligations like prayers, fasting etc. He was a noble man. He had good terms with the people of all

castes and creeds. Therefore, every individual of the village loved him. Because of his position and good

reputation among the villagers he was also the president of the village mosque committee.

Many months passed since they had found Zulaikha in the fair, but none of her parents came. In

the beginning, Zulaikha used to weep remembering her parents. But Akbar and Zainab loved her so much

that she forgot her parents and lived happily. She called Akbar Abba

and Zainab Ammi .

One day, Zainab said to Akbar that many months had passed; there is no news about Zulaikha s

parents. The child has come to her schooling age. Why should we not admit her in a school? So that she

could engage herself in study, learn something and forget her parents too.

Akbar agreed to her proposal and said he would admit her in the school tomorrow itself.

Next day Zulaikha was admitted to the school. When Zainab dressed Zulaikha in clean clothes,

combed her hair, put on her shoes and prepared her for school, she felt natural love for her and kissed and

then sent her to school. When Akbar came back from school, Zainab asked after Zulaikha s health.

Akbar said smiling:

It seems that you have fallen in love with the child that is why you take care about her so much.

Zainab replied smiling:

Yes, it is true. Zulaikha is just like my daughter, and I cannot think of separating her from me.

She also has become so familiar with me as if I am her mother.

Akbar said:

The child has also won my heart. Saying abba abba she embraces me as if I am her father.

Nevertheless, she is entrusted to us, and we will have to return her back to her parents when they come

back to them, no matter how much we become grief stricken.

Time passed very fast. Zulaikha grew up and became 10 years old, yet her parents did not come.

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CHAPTER IV

Akbar was punctual of prayers in congregation. He never missed the Fajr Salah in congregation.

One day when he went to the mosque at Fajr time, he noticed that an elderly person was sleeping in the

veranda of the mosque. Hearing the echoing footfalls in the corridor of the mosque, the elderly person

woke up, opened his eyes and wished Akbar in a choked voice; Asslamualaikum . Akbar wished him too,

and entered the mosque. After optional prayer of the elderly person was over, he sat beside Akbar. Akbar

looked at him constantly. He found the elderly person tall, well built, with big eyes, wide forehead,

brownish face, long and white beard, towel on head, beads in the hand and an enlightened face. When the

elderly person looked at Akbar smiling, Akbar felt a shiver down his spine, and quickly lowered his gaze.

Having been extremely impressed by him Akbar asked:

Where are you coming from, sir?

The elderly person replied in a chocked voice:

From a very remote place

Akbar could not dare to ask anything more. Meanwhile the congregation prayer was also held.

After prayer, every one was looking at the elderly person as he was the tallest person in the row and looked

stranger. His style was also very overwhelming. Every body exchanged glances asking about him, and

every one nodded his ignorance. All the people left for their homes, but Akbar was so impressed by the

elderly person that he sat on the terrace waiting for him to come out of the mosque. When he came out

Akbar greeted him and said:

Sir, please do not go anywhere, I am brining breakfast for you. The elderly person nodded his

head in yes. Akbar rushed to his home, described the personality of the elderly person to Zainab and asked

to prepare the breakfast. As he was ready to come out of the home, Zulaikha said: Abba! I shall

accompany you.

Accompanying Zulaikha Akbar reached the mosque. Closing his eyes and having support of the

wall the elderly person was counting his beads. Akbar came near him and greeted. The elderly person

opened his eyes. As soon as he caught sight of Zulaikha, he sat in a straight position and started gazing at

her in bewilderment. Zulaikha wished him raising her hand up to her forehead. The elderly person wished

her back and asked her in chocked voice. Who are you?

Telling her name Zulaikha said innocently. Zulaikha

Hearing Zulaikha s name, the elderly person jumped off and whispered; Zulaikha, Zulaikha, No.

No .

Zulaikha again said simply: Yes, my name is Zulaikha.

Come near me. The elderly person asked Zulaikha gazing at her face.

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Zulaikha quickly went near him. He caught hold of her face and unexpectedly started kissing her

forehead. Embracing her he said: O my daughter! I searched you everywhere.

Then again with eyes

filled with tears he gave some more kisses on her cheeks and forehead. Then he asked Akbar if she was his

daughter?

Akbar was scared to see the loving behavior with Zulaikha. He was unable to comprehend the

relationship between the elderly person and Zulaikha. Thinking perhaps Zulaikha was the daughter of the

elderly person, Akbar blurted out that she was not his daughter.

Surprisingly enough the elderly person asked then whose daughter was she?

Akbar narrated the past story about Zulaikha to him. The elderly person said that she was not even

his daughter. But she resembles my daughter. Even the small mote she has on her chin my daughter also

had the same at the same place. Alas! She fell prey to the natural calamity and died. Had she been alive, she

would have been just like her. From today, Zulaikha is my daughter. I can get the fragrance of my daughter

from her being. By seeing Zulaikha I have forgotten the pain which I was having because of my daughter s

death. Turning his head towards sky, the elderly person said:

Her parents won t come now. They have kept patience over their missing daughter. Yes, one day

they must come, but by then Zulaikha would be grown up and young. Don t worry, she won t leave you. If

her parents come, then I will deal with them.

Saying such words, the elderly person turned to Akbar and said: Till date I was like a nomad.

But a heavenly power has sent me here to meet this girl child. Now, I will live here, and bring up Zulaikha

well. The elderly person made Zulaikha sit beside him and started giving small morsels to her. After he

finished his breakfast he asked Zulaikha.

Go with your father Akbar

I will meet you time to time.

Akbar took the tiffin and came back home. He told Zainab all that took place. He added that

Zulaikha so clung the elderly person as if she were his daughter.

After Zuhr prayer, Akbar invited the elderly person to his home for lunch. The elderly person said:

I take food only twice a day, I do not take it in afternoon. At night I will come to your house to take

dinner, serve only two breads of wheat and any curry that you cook daily. Do not stand on ceremony as I

will live here permanently.

Although Akbar had told Zainab what the elderly person said to him, she had made a few more

preparations. When the elderly person saw different kinds of dishes on the table he said to Akbar: Please

do not prepare so much in future since I am no more a guest, rather I am one of your family members,

hence I will take what would be cooked in daily routine.

Zainab came near the elderly person and made a courteous greeting. The elderly person had a

cursory look at her and wished her too and said:

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I am not an outsider now; do not take the trouble for me. Where is my beta (daughter)

(Zulaikha)?

Zulaikha came and wished him. The elderly person made her sit beside him. Addressing Zainab he

said: You are good people as you are raising this child like your own daughter. Then, addressing Akbar he

said: Brother! What is your name? Zulaikha captivated me so much that I forgot to ask your name.

Akbar and Zainab told their names.

Akbar added saying Since you have become like our family member, please tell us something

about you also.

The elderly person washed his hands, made dua for blessing and then said:

At present, keep in your mind this much only that I am from a remote village of Sarhad state. My

name is Sikandar Hayat Khan. I am a defeated and wandering person by temperament. Since I have got

back my lost daughter in Zulaikha I won t leave this place. The other details will be told later on when the

time comes.

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CHAPTER V

Akbar was the president of the mosque committee. The committee members loved him and

obeyed him. He told the committee members about Khan sb. The village people were already aware of how

Zulaikha was found and how Akbar started nurturing her. He took suggestion from committee members

and built a hut for khan sb in the mosque compound. In addition to it, he also arranged same place for his

natural calls. His daily meals were served by Akbar.

In ancient time, people used to like only indigenous system of medicine, they did not like that

allopathic. This system of medicine was very popular among the villagers. Khan sb was expert of this type

of medicine. When he mentioned it to Akbar, he propagated the same throughout the village, and daily one

or two patients started visiting him for their problems. Allah had bestowed him with cure in his hands; once

a patient took the medicine from Khan sb he would be cured very soon. Day by day the patients increased

in number. In the long run, a vast chunk of the patients started coming to see him daily. Khan sb took care

about the poor. He offered free treatment to them. If some time he took fee from any poor, he would charge

him only nominal fee. This behavior of Khan sb with the village people had carved love in their hearts

towards him.

Out of his medical practice he never wanted to earn money. Nevertheless he would attempt in

accordance with his drawn up scheme for raising Zulaikha to his dream plan. He was a graduate from

Aligarh and a religious scholar as well. As he was born and brought up in Sarhad state, he had proficiency

in many marital arts too.

Due to increasing number of patients Khan Sb had scheduled time for his dispensary and become

punctual to the same. He devoted his rest of time in bringing up Zulaikha. Zulaikha was god gifted girl.

She stood up first in the school every year. Khan Sb s training made her brighter than before. Slowly and

gradually, she became expert of different arts and sciences. She passed the metric exam with distinction

and got the first rank throughout the whole district. A great function was celebrated in her honor in the

school. Khan sb himself distributed sweets in the village.

Now Zulaikha grew up and became a beautiful young girl of 15 years. At the suggestion of Khan

Sb when she was attired in Panjabi dress, she looked a unique example of Sarhadi beauty. She was not

only beautiful, her educational standard was also very high. It was a great achievement.

She completed her studies up to tenth standard in Ganganagar. Since there was no college in the

village for P.U.C. the girls or boys who wanted to continue their studies used to take admission in the city

college at Faridpur. Since Khan Sb. wanted her to develop in the field of education as much as she could,

that is why he admitted Zulaikha to the Girls College of Faridpur. Zulaikha went to school and came back

by bus with other girls of the village daily.

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CHAPTER VI

Zarina, the wife of Asim of Faridpur, was infected with an unidentifiable disease. The lower part

of her body was paralyzed. Asim was a rich man; he sought the treatment of famous doctors of the country

and abroad. Having been disappointed by the doctors treatment, he consulted Amils, went to the Mzaars

and did whatever anyone suggested, but nothing worked, rather as much he was getting the treatment her

disease would increase. All the members of the family were disturbed.

Zarina was a famous social activist and had a leading role in different clubs and institutes of the

city. Due to incurable disease her all activities stopped. Lying at bed she used to be irritated and fretted

because of her such condition.

One day, Zarina s brother Abdullah came to meet his sister. Nearby, Asim was taking his

breakfast. Seeing Abdullah, he asked him to share the breakfast with him. Abdullah excused and said:

Bhai Jan! I have heard that there is a Hakim sb in Ganganagar. He treats well. His treatment has cured

many patients. Why we should not take his treatment?

Zarina was at the bed nearby, she remarked groaning:

The expert doctors could do nothing. What will do your hakim of Ganganagar?

Asim said: When we have already taken thousands of medicine, whey should we not take one

more medicine? Allah alone knows well by which treatment you will be cured. Sometimes it happens that a

small root of medical herb works like elixir and the most expensive allopathic medicines have no effect.

Why should we not try? Abdullah! Go and bring the Hakim in!

Shaking her head Zainab said: Bhayya! Go and bring your Hakim, let us try out him also!

Abdullah, took the car, and went to Ganganagar. By the help of a villager he reached the Hakim s hut.

Hakim sb closing his eyes, leaning on the wall, was counting his beads.

A shining car stopped before the mosque. Abdullah alighted down the car, greeted Hakim sb and

sat beside him. Hakim sb finished his beads, kept it aside, and greeted Abdullah back and then asked: Who

are you? Where are coming from? What do you want?

Abdullah described the illness of his sister in detail and beseeched him to go with him and see the

patient at her house.

Quite indifferently and smiling Hakim sb said: You might have heard the saying; He who has

the need must take the initiative Bring us the patient. I will give medicine if Allah wills. Do not forget the

dispensary timings as I do not see any patient beyond our scheduled timings."

Abdullah said: My sister is unable to sit in the car. Her lower part of the body has been paralyzed.

She always lies in the bed. For this reason only I request you humbly to please go with me, I will give the

fee as much you demand.

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Hakim sb said: You have come by an expensive and beautiful car. You seem to hail from a rich

family. It is not difficult for you to arrange a luxurious ambulance to bring your sister. We are fakirs and

never go to someone s door.

Abdullah was very impressed by the Hakim. He came back to his sister and praised Hakim sb to

the sky. Apa! He is not only a professional hakim, but also a fakir. I am sure that you will be cured by his

treatment inshaAllah.

Zarina in a bit haughtiness said: You are a fool. If someone shouts on you, you are frightened,

and if someone talks to you in sweet words, you become his admirer. It is impossible for me to go to the

person who makes the medicine in mortar. Go, and bring in him on any cost. Dr. Roburt, the famous doctor

of England came to us when we had called him. What a distinction your Hakim has won that he is not

coming to us. Meanwhile, Asim sb arrived. Abdullah told him what happened to him with Hakim sb. Asim

sb said: We can not force him if he does not want to come. It seems that he is virtuous man and does not

run behind money, if the matter were so, he would have shown his temptation seeing our car, and hearing

our name and fame. Our status would not be lowered if we go to him. Abdullah! Arrange a luxurious

ambulance, go and see the Hakim. Thereafter all must be as Allah wills.

Zarina said to Abdullah in great arrogance: I do not know why you people are insisting on going

to see the arrogant Hakim. These people change their appearance and swindle us. Buzz off, I can not go.

However, Asim and Abdullah convinced her to go to Ganganagar. When the luxurious ambulance

was brought, the children started saying that they would also go with them. Zarina said: Be here, do not

go, as you won t be happy in a village.

I am going only because of insistence of Abdullah and your father;

I am enough to observe the Hakim and his tricks.

A splendid ambulance halted at the door of the mosque when Hakim sb was giving medicine to

the patients. The patients mostly were from laborer class. Zarina was still lying in the ambulance. She was

feeling odd to see these laborers. Abdullah told Hakim sb that the patient had come here. Hakim sb. Said:

Let the patient lay in the ambulance so long as I handle the other patients.

When all the patients went away, Hakim sb asked Abdullah to bring the stretcher of the patient to

the courtyard of the mosque, the same was brought in. Hakim sb asked his servant to stand on the way for

the sake of hijab lest should any stranger come. Hakim sb came near Zarina, and said in gentle words:

How are you, are you fine? Zarina replied in a harsh words saying: Why would I come here if I were

fine. Only pulse is beating and the whole body is abnormal. Hakim sb consoled her and took out a tea

spoon full Majun and asked her to take it. Making her face, Zarina took it. As soon as the Majun reached

under the throat, she felt as if electricity had gone through the veins, and the blood circulation had become

very fast. Hakim sb had a look at his pocket watch and exactly after half an hour took out another Majun

tea spoon full. He asked her to take it and then drink syrup that he gave to her. When Zarina took the Majun

and drank the syrup, she felt that something was pinching in lower part of her body, and the legs were

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shaking. Her body sweated; and, in a state of anguish she started moving her legs and hands. Finding her at

such state, Hakim sb made her busy with chatting; asking her what was her husband s name? What was he

doing? How many children did she have? She replied in the same anguish and said: My husband s name

is Asim, his profession is business. We have many shops in the city. We have four sons and four daughters.

Having completed their graduations the first and second sons are helping their father in business. One

daughter has become doctor and now she is practicing. The rest of children are studying in schools. On

asking her about her engagements she told that she used to be a social worker before her illness, and was

attached with many institutes and welfare centers and worked sincerely for the society and country.

One hour had passed since Hakim sb had given her medicine. All of a sudden, Hakim sb

thundered and spoke in a stentorian voice. Zarina! Stand up in the name of Allah and come down the

platform. As she heard the unexpected voice, she became bewildered and sprung up, stood up and, came

down the platform.

Hakim sb asked Abdullah to support his sister walking towards the car. Abdullah caught hold of

her sister s shoulder. Walking slowly Zarina reached the ambulance. She was feeling severe pain in her

back. When she made two three rounds the pain was reduced. Hakim sb was looking standing down the

platform. Reaching near Hakim sb at her fourth round to the platform Zarina left Abdullah s hand and

suddenly kneeled down Hakim sb s feet. Hakim sb moved back saying O what are you doing?

Zarina was lying to the ground on her face. She was bitterly weeping and beseeching for

forgiveness. She confessed that she was having bad notion and was talking badly about him. Hakim sb!

Please forgive me; I shall not stand up unless you forgive me.

Hakim sb replied smiling: Madam! I have forgiven you. May Allah also forgive you? Come to

platform and sit here. Abdullah supported her sister and made her sit on the platform. It was not the Zarina

who had come to Hakim sb a few moments ago. She was feeling ashamed, her head was down, and all the

arrogance vanished from her face.

Now she looked like a common woman.

Hakim sb was sitting on the platform. He smiled and said: I had learned at my first glance that

you were a conceited and arrogant woman. I also had learnt that you would not wish to come here for the

treatment. But, Allah wanted something else. You were forced by Allah s will and command and

eventually came here, and unwillingly took my medicine. It is my forefathers prescription which not only

cures the patient, but also it purifies the heart from the hatred and other spiritual diseases.

Admonishing Zarina, Hakim sb added: Never love the world and its belongings, as it is like

concubine, if today is with someone, tomorrow it will go to someone else. Love Allah, as when Allah love

enters someone s heart; it makes him human and perfect man. You do not know I have been driven from

pillar to post and then I reached here. I have met hundreds of wayward and arrogant rich people. But by the

grace of Allah I was not bewildered by them at all. They were inflicted with diseases and sooner or later

like you they were also forced to kneel down before me.

Hakim sb put his hand in his pocket and then he took out a few diamonds. Their twinkling was

dazzling eyes. Only two or three of these diamonds are enough to buy your all property and wealth. Praise

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be to Allah, I was never fascinated by these stones and never loved them. We are ancestral fakir, and

independence is our profession. Trust in Allah is our dress and being happy under all circumstances is our

dignity.

Abdullah and Zarina were looking at the diamonds with their wide eyes. Their glitter was

dazzling their eyes which were not being fixed on them. Zarina and Abdullah were already impressed with

Hakim sb s treatment, now they believed that Hakim sb was a God gifted person.

Hakim sb said: Go and give glad tidings of the health to your family members, then he went back

to his room. Zarina suggested Abdullah to ask about his fee. Abdullah entered the room and said: Hakim

sb! How much fee shall we pay to you? Hearing this Hakim sb roared into laughter and said: Do not ask

about fee, just take your sister to home, she is now to take some more medicines.

Giving a small box of medicine towards Abdullah said to him, keep it. This is a Majun. She will

take it two spoons full twice a day with milk. Take the medicine for 8 days then again bring her back to

me.

The car stopped in the portico. Zarina arrived home. Having comprehended the movement and

sound of the car , Asim sb and the children came out and drew back in utmost wonder at the door. They

noticed that Zarina was coming to the door on her own feet. When the children saw this, they became

overjoyed and embraced their mother saying "Ammi Ammi". Asim sb was quite amazed at this magical

recovery of Zarina from her illness. However, when they all sat in drawing room on chairs, Asim sb broke

the ice and said: Still I can not believe that it is really you people? Or am I dreaming? It seems that Hakim

sb is not only Hakim, he is also a magician. Sorry, not magician, but he is a great spiritual person. Not to

speak of the medicine that he gives, if he has a spiritual look at the patient, the patient will be cured.

Zarina told all that happened in Ganganagar. Having heard the whole story, the children said:

Ammi! We would have also seen this miracle if you had not stopped us at home. Zarina s eyes were filled

with tears. She said: My children! That time I was intoxicated by wealth. Now, when it has come down,

believe me, I am considering myself to be a little creature. Asim sb said: Hakim sb s medicine has cured

you well, but perhaps it has also affected you brain. Zarina said: Hakim sb s medicine cured me from

illness and his talks have cured me from all spiritual diseases. I just told you, didn t I? He is not only

Hakim, but also a great pious person. Abdullah was true when he said: Hakim sb s talks have a magical

effect.

Asim sb said: Thanks be to Allah! You are healed and your misunderstandings about Hakim sb

are also removed.

15

CHAPTER VII

After eight days when Zarina again prepared to see Hakim sb, her eight children stood before her

and said: today we won't' stay here, we will also accompany you to Hakim sb." Zarina agreed to their

demand.

The caravan of Zarina of many cars reached Hakims sb s residence. Hakim sb was counting his

beads sitting on the platform of the mosque. Comprehending a sound of movement, he raised his head and

saw that Zainab was coming to him with all the eight of her children.

Zarina and her children greeted Hakim sb in a courteous way and they all sat beside him on the

platform. The children were taken aback to see towering personality of Hakim sb. Hakim sb kept his

beads, and asked Zarina: How are you now, Madam!"

Adjusting the hem of her stole Zainab said: By the grace of Allah I am getting well. The back

pain is also reduced. The legs are also strengthened and now no more difficulty I face while walking on

foot.

Hakim sb said: Allah blesses upon those whom He wants, our medicine has no power. It is a

pretext; the healing is only in the hand of Allah." Turning towards the children he added: Perhaps these

children of yours have come to meet me. Replying in affirmative Zarina said: "Hakim sb., actually they

were insisting on meeting you for giving thanks to their beneficent who has cured their mother and enabled

her to walk. Laughing, Hakim sb said: It is only Allah who healed your mother so thank Him only,

Hakim was only a source. Anyway, leave this issue, now you all introduce yourselves to me." First of all

Ashraf introduced himself.

Ashraf: My name is Ashraf. I am the first son of my mother. Having done graduation course, I

am handling my father s business.

Iqbal: I am the second son of my mother. Having done my graduation I am helping Ashraf bhayya

in his business.

Naima: I am the third one of my mother s children. I have done medical course.

Akram: I am the fourth one of my mothers children and now studying in the college.

Salima: I am the fifth one, and studying in the college.

Hafsa: "I am the sixth one and studying in the college."

Noman: I am the seventh one and studying in the college.

Khadija: I am the last one, and studying in a school.

Hakim sb became very happy to hear from the children and congratulated Zarina. Addressing

Zarina, Hakims said: Masha Allah., you have many children, and all of them are educated. If any Pathan

16

family has so many boys, he will be proud of them. Keep in your mind that the wealth and offspring both

are boon of Allah. Allah examines those who are endowed with such gifts. If we spend our wealth in good

cause and according to the will of Allah, and bring up the children well, then, they will be good for this

world and the world hereafter, if not so, then, they will become the source of destruction in the lives of both

the worlds.

"Children! I am admonishing you. Do remember what I am instructing you. You will be benefited

from what I am talking to you. Listen attentively! You are the offspring of the nation, which is the head of

all the nations. Although this nation (Muslim Ummah) had been the pride of its time, yet because of its

wrong deeds it has become backward. Today, our nation is lagging behind in all aspects; economical,

social, educational and political.

Concluding my words I would like to address specially Asharf and Iqbal. You are doing business.

I pray to Allah to develop your business. You must not forget to help other people through your business.

Try to set one or two or more in business. If you help the people, set their business, then one day Muslim

nation will be economically the most powerful nation.

Turning towards school going children Hakim sb added:

You should not learn for yourselves. You must learn to enlighten the nation. The science is a

light by which one can find the way in the darkness of ignorance. Today, the nation is wandering in the

darkness of ignorance; it is time to provide the nation with the light of science.

My daughter Naima! It is good that you have done medical course. You must develop the sense of

the service for the nation. Allah has already given you a big amount of wealth. You should not have

temptation towards more wealth. You should make the treatment easier, so as the poor also can avail of the

same. Either treat the poor freely or take nominal amount of fee from them. Ok, you must take reasonable

fee from rich people.

Having heard so many advice and suggestions, the youngest Khadija spoke out. Hakim sb! You

have advised us so much, Allah also has given you diamonds. You are also a Hakim and earn money

through this profession. Did you serve your nation or not?

Upon this abrupt attack on Hakim sb, Zarina and Ashraf rebuked her. What an evil minded you

are. Keep quiet. Khadija kept silent.

Stopping Zarina Hakim sb said: Do not rebuke the baby, I am not unhappy with her question, but I

feel happy, as she has used her right.

Beti! Your mother might have mentioned the diamonds to you. In any case, I am a wandering

person. I have roamed around hundreds of the villages and cities. Allah has bestowed His mercy upon me

by giving me knowledge of medicine. I have earned much money through this source. The diamonds also

are given to me by some people who got cured by my treatment. Nevertheless, I never forgot the condition

17

of my nation. I helped the poor and set some people in business and some others in other jobs. So far, I

have set 5000 persons in business. Al-hamdu-lillah! Now they are leading their lives happily and helping

their brethren.

Likewise, I provided jobs to the jobless youths wherever I traveled. Hearing fame of my treatment

many people came to me, I either treated them free, or took a nominal fee from them. Yes, I used to take

handsome fee from the rich people, as it was affordable for them. The diamonds you are looking are

rewards given by those ailing people who had become disappointed regarding their illness, but they were

cured by my treatment. Children! I am not among those who do not act upon what they preach others. In

fact, Allah s curse visits such people. I suggest you all not to be like these people.

I have talked to much to you all. You might be late so let me give you medicine. Saying this,

Hakim sb brought the medicine and handing over it to Zarina said: This is for 15 days medicine, take one

tea spoon full twice a day.

Interrupting Hakim sb Khadija said: Hakim sb, please show us the diamonds you had shown to

Mummy. Hakim sb threw the diamonds on the floor. Looking at the diamonds, every body was

bewildered.

Khadija commented saying you are carrying these diamonds in the pocket so freely, if some one

picks up your pocket then..?

Confidently, Hakim sb said: I pay their poor due every year, so I need not fear any pocket pick,

as the wealth whose zakah is given comes in the Allah s security."

Next time when you come, please do not forget to bring Asim sb, as I want to meet him too.

Saying this Hakim sb went back to his room. Abdullah followed him hurriedly and asked about his fee.

Hakim sb told why are you repeatedly mentioning fee, I will tell you when the time comes. Go, and relax.

Allah Hafiz!

18

CHAPTER VIII

Although every body of the village wanted Hakim sb to come to his house to have dinner yet as a

precautionary measure, not out of pride, Hakim sb had restricted himself for taking food to Akbar s house

only. He acted on this with such logic that no body objected over his attitude of such kind.

Along with the above, Hakim sb treated the rich and poor people well. He took handsome fee from

rich people, and did not give any discount to them. Nevertheless, he always took care of the poor people

and did not charge much fee from them; rather mostly, he gave the medicine freely. The poor people

believed that Hakim sb had no love for money. Rather he loves the human beings and has great zeal to

serve the humanity.

Hakim sb got many poor and orphan girls married at his cost. He fixed stipends for many widows

and handicapped, and arranged to provide recourses of education for zealous and sharp-minded boys and

girls. However, he took the responsibility of Zulaikha s education in his own hands. He gave time to her for

her studies, taught her and brought up her well. Zulaikha was very sharp-minded. She easily understood

whatever Hakim sb taught her, she remembered the lessons and then pronounced in Hakim sb's accent.

Zulaikha s physique was just like his late daughter's and her hard work for her study made her more

beloved to Hakim sb.

Chapter IX

Considering the requirement of dispensary, Hakim sb had built a well-furnished room beside the

mosque. The rooms had wide and airy widows. Two boys were appointed to prepare medicine.

The day, Zarina along with her family was about to come, Hakim sb had already dressed Zulaikha

in a good panjabi dress, made her wear jewelry and made her sit beside him.

When Zarina along with her family came and entered the room, Zulaikha was ready to welcome

them, she stood up and greeted them saying Asslam-u-Alaikum. Hearing the sweet voice of Zulaikha,

looking at her angelic beauty, they were so captivated that they forgot to greet her back.

(In bewilderment) Is this your daughter? Asim sb said.

(Smiling) You can regard her as you think. Hakim sb said.

What do you mean by that?

Asim said.

(Laughing) Please be seated. I will tell you later. Hakim sb said.

The daughters of Zarina were in a habit of beautifying them before going out side. They had come

here also in full make up. They were of course beautiful, but in comparison to Zulaikha s dazzling beauty

they started feeling a kind of inferiority complex. Ashraf looked her full in the face and kept on gazing.

Zulaikha also chanced to look him and thus they saw each other. Zulaikha s heart started beating fast.

19

Ashraf was also engrossed in her thoughts. However, there was no evil thought came in his mind as

although his house was modern yet they had very exalted values of morals.

Hakim sb became very happy to realize that Asim's son Ashraf has fallen in Zulaikha's love at the

first sight he had at Zulaikha.

Zarina also understood the relationship that was developed between Zulaikha and Ashraf. She

herself was impressed by Zulaikha's rare and unique beauty, which could have not been compared to her

own daughters' beauty. Nevertheless, the surrounding in which she was living, her arrogance, ego, and

manner of humiliating the poor had made her blind. She could have never thought of marrying her son with

Zulaikha.

As regards Asim sb, he was a different kind of person, and had handed over all responsibilities of

the household to his wife. He did not want to interfere in such issues.

When all the people sat down, Hakim sb said, we first talk about the illness of our patient, and

thereafter any thing else will happen. Saying this, Hakim sb asked Zarina after her health. Zarina replied

that his medicine had made a miracle. Today I do not feel that I had ever been ill. I am quite well by the

grace of Allah.

Addressing Hakim sb Asim sb said: "Hakim sb! I thank you for your sincere assistance treatment

that you gave to my wife. In fact, the disease of my wife was cured by your medicine only, which the

renowned and imminent doctors failed to treat her disease.

Hakim sb said: "We must thank Allah Almighty who guided me towards prescribing the right

medicines for your wife. Earlier your wife was hopeless regarding my treatment, but by Allah's grace, she

put her trust in my medicine. The trust is must while taking someone's treatment. If the patient does not put

his trust in the doctors' prescription, then the most efficacious medicine cannot cure the disease, rather

some time it harms the patient.

Asim sb kept on nodding his head during Hakim sb's talk, when Hakim sb's talk was over, Asim

sb tried to hand over to him a bundle of rupees saying it is not the fee, it is a gift from one of your brothers.

Hakim sb said: "I definitely, take fee from the rich people, so I must take from you also. But, at the moment

keep it with you. I shall take it when your wife is completely cured. Asim sb unwillingly kept the bundle

back in his pocket.

Dr. Naima interrupted Hakim sb said: "(Pointing towards Zulaikha) you had promised us to tell

about this girl."

Oh, you remember my promise! Hakim sb said.

Zulaikha!, go home now. Hakim asked her.

As Zulaikha stood to go, Hakim sb asked her whether she would not serve Sarhadi tea to her

guests. Why not Baba? She said.

20

Pleas do not bother. Zarina and Asim said promptly.

"It goes against customs and traditions of a Pathan that he dose not serve even a cup of tea to those

come to his door. Beti! Go, and make one thermos tea." Hakim sb said.

After Zulaikha left, Hakim sb ordered one his servants to go to Akbar's home and bring tea.

When the boys and Zulaikha went, Hakim sb told them the story of Zulaikha... The tea was

brought and served to the guests. It was very tasty. Khadija, the youngest daughter of Zarina, whispered

her mother Zarina that the tea was very tasty whether any more cups could be give to her. Zarina looked at

her angrily. Hakim sb heard her desire of tea. Smiling he said: " Beta! Not only one, take ten cups. This is

Fakir's home; here Allah's mercy falls from the sky. Take tea whole-heartedly. This is our own way of

making tea; you can never find such tea anywhere else. Once again, the servants filled their cups, and every

one took the tea to ones content.

Having taken tea, Asim sb sought permission to leave. Hakim sb gave the medicine for 15 days

and asked to take it with milk. After 15 days, once again come and tell the condition.

Asim sb and his family kept the fruits and sweets that they brought in and left. Throughout the

way to the city, they talked only about Hakim sb, Zulaikha, and tea.

Chapter X

After 15 days when Zarina prepared to see Hakim sb again, the children insisted to accompany her

saying that they liked Hakim sb talks very much.

And tea too Ashraf said smiling.

Grimacing Ashraf, Hafsa said, .and Zulaikha too .

Zarina said: "Oh' the quarrel began. Children! If you want to make quarrel, do it here only, do not

bring shame on me there.

However, the children, Zarina and Asim sb; the whole family set off for Ganganagar to see Hakim

sb. As soon as they arrived at Hakim sb s house, Hakim sb welcomed them with warm greeting saying:

Ahlan wa sahlan Marhaba (You are most welcome)

In a state of surprise, Asim sb asked Hakim sb whether he welcomed every body who comes to

him in a similar fashion. Hakim sb said: I welcome those who are beloved to me in the same manner; I do

not know why I love you people so much. While the fact is that I am a traveling person, I never give any

one place in my heart. I have met many people and treated them, but never developed personal relation

with them."

Asim sb asked: do you want to leave from here also?

Hakim sb said: My daughter Zulaikha is here, I can not leave her otherwise I will be suffering for

the whole my life.

21

"Zarina! How are you now?" Hakim sb asked.

Zarina: I am now quite well by the grace of Allah and your medicine."

Hakim sb: It is only Allah s grace that my medicine has worked and you got cured.

Asim sb: We want to celebrate the health recovery of Zarina as the friends and relatives are

demanding us to do the same. We believe that your presence in the celebration is quite necessary. So,

please fix a date as per your convenience.

Hakim sb said: "I do not like to appear on stage. Such these things suit you rich people only.

However, you have no solution except to do so, or others will taunt you. You must accept my condition, if

you think my presence is necessary in the party."

Asim and Zarina said unanimously that they would accept his each and every condition and do as

he liked.

Hakims sb said: I will tell you after consideration.

Khadija said with naughtiness, should we go back today without tea?

Hakim sb laughed at her demand and said smiling: she is a very lovely and frank child.

Do not

worry, I will offer a quite new and tasty tea to you.

Hafsa: we have seen you daughter only once. Can we see her once again?

Hakim sb: Yes, why not, this desire of yours will also be fulfilled. Hakim sb called his servants

and asked them to ask Zulaikha to bring in green tea.

The servants took the teapots. Zulaikha and Zainab worn hijab and moved towards the mosque,

hardly they had walked a little distance, all of a sudden a snake came out of the bushes grown along sides

and bit Zulaikha s feet and within a second disappeared. Zulaikha made a cry and caught hold of her leg.

"What happened?" Zainab asked. Tossing in pain Zulaikha said: "Mummy! A snack has bitten

me." The two boys searched the snake but it disappeared somewhere in the bushes. Zainab lost her senses

and sent one of the boys to Hakim sb. Hakim sb and all the people rushed towards the place. Zulaikha was

lying on the ground and crying in pain. Her leg was hanging down, Ashraf held her leg and helped her

walking. At the moment, no body noticed this. Holding her leg he walked a few steps, meanwhile Zarina

noticed and made him leave and she herself held her leg and came to the dispensary. Hakim sb applied a

medicine to the place where the snake had bitten and gave one more medicine to swallow. After a few

minutes, Zulaikha gained complete recovery. Hakim sb said it was his ancestral prescription. It worked

very fast. Now by the grace of Allah the whole poison has come out.

Zulaikha felt comfortable and sat down. All the other people also sat on the carpet. Zulaikha was

fully covered in the veil. Asim sb said beti! We now have become as close as relative to Hakim sb, if you

don t mind please remove the veil. We are your own people. Hakim sb also agreed with him. Zulaikha

22

removed the curtain from her face. The fear of snake had added more beauty to her face. Her face seemed

shining like the moon in the cloud. Ashraf was bewildered; Asim and Zarina were also impressed.

Today, all the daughters of Asim sb had come without makeup. They were dressed in loose-fitting

clothes. Zulaikha also had not applied any cosmetic stuff to her face. Nevertheless, the fear had made her

face yellowish, which was making her the most beautiful among all. Time to time, Ashraf stole glances at

Zulaikha.

Hakim sb broke the ice saying Alhamdullillah the problem is solved. Let us now take tea. Every

one was given tea. When the tea was over, Hakim sb once again filled every body s cup with tea.

Unconsciously Ashraf took three to four cups. Upon this, Hafsa whispered him, Bhayya, what are you

doing? I fear that lest Zulaikha should believe you glutton. Ashraf felt ashamed and put the cup at once.

"What are you studying?" Zarina asked Zulaikha.

B.A. final year, Zulaikha replied.

What do you want to do in future?

Pointing towards Hakim sb, she said: It depends on Baba ji s suggestion.

Hakim sb said: let the examination be over first.

Who is she? Pointing towards Zainab, Zarina asked Zulaikha.

She is my mother. Zulaikha said.

She is Akbar s wife, Hakim sb added.

Suggesting Asim sb said: Hakim sb! If you leave this village and shift to a city, thousand of

patients will get cure from you. I shall also help you by every possible mean.

Hearing this offer, Hakim sb burst in to laughter and said: The great men of the past have said:

The friendship with rich people always brings embarrassment, and their enmity creates problems. I believe

whose treatment by me is ordained by Allah will eventually come to me whether I work in city or village.

Dr. Naima spoke out: "Hakim sb, I am a Doctor, please do think of my father s proposal; we both

will open a joint dispensary in the city."

Hakim sb: I do not want to earn money. My father was expert physician but he never shifted to

city. He always used to say: The poor loves selflessly while the rich shows his love selfishly. The poor

will scarify his life if time comes, but the rich will run away when his need is fulfilled, I am sorry, please

let me stay here among the poor people only.

Asim sb: "There are many poor people in the city, stay there among them, and help others too."

Hakim sb: "You might have ever realized the fact that destitute of the city always tries to destroy

the rich one, as he earns money by the poor s labor. Having seen the incredible and shining scenario of the

23

city, its wealth, and buildings touching the sky height, the poor has now also started trying to become like

rich people. The difference between rich and poor s mentality has vanished in the city. However, such

tragedy has not visited the villages. The villagers are yet faithful, honest, friendly, selfless, and cooperative.

So, let me stay here in the village.

Asim sb now became tightlipped. Having a look at his watch he said: Ok, now we will like to go

back. Please inform us about whatever date is convenient to you.

The next day after Zuhr prayer, Akbar came and sat beside Hakim sb and said that Zainab

informed him that yesterday some men and women of the city had come to you in many cars.

Hakim sb said yes, one of the richest women of the city has been undergoing my treatment for a

few months back, and those who had come were her husband and children.

"Was she restored to her normal health?" Akbar asked.

"Not only she was cured, but also I hope that my daughter s destiny will have a stroke of good

fortune." Hakim sb said.

Thinking of nothing Akbar started gazing at Hakim sb.

Raising his head towards sky Hakim sb said: by nature they seem to be noble people. And Allah

has bestowed my daughter with such a blessing on her face that they were impressed by her at their first

sight. I believe they have realized Zulaikha s value, yet their ego resists them to ask us Zulaikha for their

son.

"But, they seem to be rich, and we are poor, how could it be matching." Akbar said.

Hakim sb said Smiling: Stupid! Do you think Zulaikha is poor? Oh, you do not you know that her

spiritual father has so much wealth that he will buy the whole property of ten rich people like them. Do not

worry. Allah will help us? Eventually my daughter will get married with their son., and then she will do a

great work.

"May I inform Zainab about this happy news?" Akbar asked.

Not at this stage, as the women cannot keep any thing secret. If she knows, she soon will tell the

entire village. Let it come to a final stage then I myself will tell her. Yourself also be careful and do not let

anyone know it.

Meanwhile, Zulaikha s real father was sitting in his shop; one of his friends named Rafique came

and sat beside him. He asked. Baqir what happened to his daughter who disappeared in Kamlapur's animal

fair a few years ago, and whether he received any news about her. Baqir had a deep sigh and said: No.,

24

seventeen years passed since she disappeared, yet we have no news about her. Allah knows whether she is

alive or dead.

Rafique said: Once I had been to Ganganagar to meet one of my relatives. He told me a story of a

missing girl child who had been found by his friend at Ganganagar fair many yeas ago. As his friend had no

child, he nourished her, educated, and made her very talented like his own daughter. It is said that a Hakim

sb has come in the village, who also likes this girl very much. I call my relative here. Better, one day you

go to Ganganagar and see the girl. She might be yours.

Having heard them talking this, the wife of Baqir who was standing near the door said: Bhayya!

you have brought a good news to me, may Allah you become prosperous, and the girl would be mine. I

dream my daughter every night, just tonight I have seen her, she has become young and beautiful. We both

recognized each other. She clung up to my chest. Since morning, I am missing her badly. I do not tell him

(pointing towards her husband) my dream as he considers it to be joke and meaningless. I think the girl you

are talking about is mine, please do call your relative; I will pay him the full transport expense. Uttering

these words Hasina s eyes were moistened with tears.

After eight days Rafiq brought his relative; Shaikh Hayder . He took Baqir to Ganganagar, and

made him meet Akbar at his cycle shop. Baqir told the whole story of his missing daughter Zulaikha. When

Akbar heard this, he became speechless, and the screwdriver, which he was holding in his hand, fell on the

ground. Akbar felt happy and sorry meeting Baqir. He made him sit there with all courtesy and then he

went his home, he shouted from outside, Zainab! O Zainab! Zulaikha s father has come." Unexpectedly,

hearing this, Zainab got chocked.

Zainab: "What, What ?? Has Zulaikha's father come, hasn't he?"

Akbar: "Yes, he is in my shop."

Zainab said trembling "what will happen now?"

Akbar: "I am bringing him in. All must happen as Allah wills."

Zulaikha was cleaning the house, when she heard about her father; she stopped and started gazing

towards the door. Within a few minutes, Akbar brought Baqir to his home. Zainab entered the room. It was

the first time when Zulaikha was meeting her father after seventeen years. She was feeling difficulty to

recognize her father. She was gazing at him speechlessly. The voice of the father was familiar to her, but

the picture she had in her memory was so faded that she hardly recognized him. The hearts of both, father

and daughter were beating fast. Eventually, the blood relation overcame and Baqir spread his arms saying

"my daughter, my daughter! Zulaikha also could not control herself and saying: abba abba, she embraced

Baqir. Both father and daughter had a dip in the ocean of tears, and hiccupped. The atmosphere of the

house became so emotional that Akbar and Zainab also wept. After they gave vent to their feelings and felt

relaxed, changing the atmosphere Akbar said: "Beti, Zulaikha, first serve tea to your father and then prepare

food for him."

25

Wiping her tears Zulaikha brought a mat and made her father sit on it, and she herself entered in

the kitchen. Zainab was making tea, she asked her to sit with her father. When Zulaikha came out, Baqir

said, Zulaikha come to me and sit beside me. After many years, I have met you. Now you have become

young. Are you studying? She said yes, in final year of B.A.

Zulaikha again asked about her brothers and sisters. Akbar told that the elder brother had stopped

the study after primary, and started doing some business. One brother and two sisters have recently

appeared in 10th exam. I am running my small shop, Allah gives Barakah.

Zainab called Zulaikha to give tea to his father and Shaikh Haydar. She brought tea and gave

them. When Baqir, Shaikh Haydar and Akbar sat near the tea table, Baqir said to Akbar in weeping style:

"Akbar, I can not forget your gratitude regarding my daughter. Then he thanked Shaikh Haydar too, as he

helped in finding his daughter.

After the lunch was over, Baqir asked Akbar's permission to leave for his village as to give this

glade tiding to Zulaikha's mother at the earliest. She would be waiting. Tomorrow, I am bringing Zulaikha's

mother here.

When Akbar reached his home, he found Hasina at the door. As soon as she saw Baqir, she asked

him about Zulaikha whether he found her. Akbar said not only found her but got her in great psition, she

has become like queen. Hearing these words she prostrated and thanked Allah for His utmost mercy upon

her and said she would keep two days fasting and feed five poor people.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

After Maghrib payer, sitting beside Hakim sb Akbar said: "Baba Ji, today Zulaikha's father had

come."

Contemplating Akbar Hakim sb said "Really, Zulaikha's father had come?"

Yes, but what will happen now? Akbar said.

I understand the anxiety of both of you, go and consul Zainab, or she will be feeling uneasiness for

whole night. Do not worry, as I will tackle the circumstances. Hakim sb said.

Akbar came home and said that Hakim sb promised to tackle the circumstances, so not be worried.

Next day, Baqir came to Akbar's home with his family. Seeing Zulaikha, her mother told that she

had seen the same physic in her dream. Oh, mashaAllah, she has become young. Zulaikha began meeting

with her brothers and sisters. Meanwhile Akbar brought Hakim sb. Hakim sb came and greeted in a choked

voice. Every body was impressed by his towering personality. Wasting no time, Hakim sb asked Baqir

whether he was Zulaikha's father, and she was her mother, and they were her brothers and sisters. Baqir

nodded his head in yes.

26

Khan sb said: "I was sure that Allah would make Zulaikha's parents meet their daughter before her

marriage. You are very luck people as the history of prophets has been repeated in your lives. Hazrat Yusuf

was made disappear by his brothers, Hazrat Yaqub (PBUH) wept for a long time in the remembrance of his

son. Likewise, by the wisdom of Allah, Zulaikha also disappeared in the animal fair, you wept for a long

time as Hazrat Yaqub wept. By Allah's wisdom, Yousuf reached Egypt, and by His wisdom only, Zulaikha

reached here. Hazrat Yusuf took the charge of the government in Egypt, and therafter Allah made his

parents meet him in Egypt. Likewise, Zulaikha got higher education and became an example of education

in this village and her parents also met her by Allas's grace. Verily, praise be to Allah who once puts the

man in trails and tribulations and then He endow him with mercy and grace.

Baqir and Hasina were already impressed by Hakim sb. They became more impressed when they

heard his talks.

After a while, Khan sb again started speaking, he said:

"Behold, when Hazrat Yaqub met his som Yusuf, he would have insisted on Yusuf to go back to

his village, but he dint do so as the whole management of Egypt was in his hand. If he had left for his

father's village, the whole programme which he was running, and all his dawah activites would have put to

an end. Therefore, he did not leave Egypt, his parents and all family members came to Egypt. Now, by

Allah's grace you found Zulaikha, you have the right to bring her to your home. But, since getting higher

education and well bringing up Zulaikha has become an honor for the entire village. We also expect her

marriage to be held in one of good and rich family. Neither you can give her any status in accordance with

her education nor can you get her married in any good family. Now, you can decide yourselves.

Baqir and Hasina unanimously said: "Whatever you decide will be acceptable to us."

In spite of giving his own judgment Khan sb asked Zulaikha whether she would be here or go with

her parents.

Zulaikha said: "Baba ji, I will be here"

Khan sb said: "Hurrah! You did what Hazrat Zaid the adopted son of our prophet Muhammad

(PBUH) did when he (PBUH) asked him whether he would go with his parents or stay with him in Makka.

Really, I expected the same answer from you. You are a noble and not an ungrateful."

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Ashraf came back to his professional and business life, but his hear had been stuck in Ganganagar.

He always thought about Zulaikha whether she would be in good health or face any problem. Although he

was of course, rich, used to go to clubs, many beautiful girls from higher societies used to be around him,

and he would also met them, even her mother was concerned for getting a suitable spouse from a higher

society he had fallen in love with Zulaikha and nothing would have attracted to his hear except her.

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His anxiety could not let him sit in his office; he took out his car and starting driving on the way to

Ganganagar. Within a few minutes, he arrived at Hakim sb's house. Meantime, Hakim sb was teaching

Zulaikha. Ashraf knocked at the door. Hakim sb asked who was this?

Ashraf said: "I am Ashraf and coming from Faridpur."

Seeing Ashraf unexpectedly, Hakim sb was surprised and asked what happened, and how he came

here suddenly?

Ashraf was confused and could not deicide what should have to say. Neither he could expose the

love he concealed in his hear, nor he could he deny. However, he said stuttering: "I came .I mean

to say that ..I came to ask after Zulaikha's health. He said wiping the sweat from his forehead.

O, this is the matter. Come in, Zulaikha is here ask her only. Hakim sb said.

Zulaikha was looking towards the door when Ashraf came in. Zulaikha had a look at him and felt

ashamed. Ashraf asked her about her health. She told that she was fine.

What are you talking standing like the passers by, be seated and then we will talk. Hakim sb said.

Ashraf sat down. Hakim sb asked Zulaikha to go and cook Sarhadi Qabuli for Ashraf. Ashraf

could not fine time to deny as Zulaikha left the room very quickly. When Zulaikha went Hakim sb started

inquiring about Ashraf's business.

Zulaikha reached the home. Finding her so early Zainab was surprised. She asked her what

happened, and why she came today earlier. Zulaikha said that Baba ji sent her to cook Sarhadi Qabuli.

Babaji does not take lunch. What happened today? Zainab said.

Zulaikha said: "Not for Babaji, for him "

What????? Who came?

He, who came yesterday, Zulaikha said.

What, is it the patient and her children? Zainab said.

No, only her elder son came. Zainab said.

Oh, Ashraf Miyan has come.

Yes, Zulaikha nodded her head.

This boy seems to be mad in your love, and Hakim sb is going to embroider in a silky shirt with

cheep cotton. Allah knows whether he will succeed.

However, both Zainab and Zulaikha cooked the Qabuli and prepared some sweet too. Zulaikha

brought the tiffin alone. Seeing her alone with the tiffin Hakim sb commented saying "this is the love."

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Ashraf took lunch and found it very tasty. He praised her saying" what a delicious lunch is,

without doubt, you make very delicious food."

This is the magic of msala prepared by Baba ji which makes every dish delicious. Zulaikha said.

When a woman makes food, the food becomes delicious automatically. Hakim sb said.

Continue

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