Syed Shadab Ali Gillani
SRINAGAR: In the bustling streets of Rambagh, Srinagar, amidst the sea of male vendors peddling their wares, a small pottery shop stands out like an oasis of colour. Within its crowded walls, a woman in her mid-fifties patiently sells intricately designed clay pots, tumbaknari, and vases. Her wrinkled hands, etched with the wisdom of years, dance with practiced elegance, tending to the heart of her store.
This is her livelihood, her refuge. After her eldest son’s untimely passing and with a disabled husband at home, she alone provides for her family of four. Come rain or shine, she opens her shop each day, welcoming customers with a gentle smile. Her shop is her calling, her way of bringing beauty into the world while displaying the true depth of human resilience. In her perseverance, she paints a portrait of courage.
For more than a decade, Khalida has been successfully operating her shop. Her journey began when her husband suffered a debilitating workplace injury, prompting Khalida to step forward and seize control of the situation. Despite the predominantly male presence among Rambagh’s marketplace shopkeepers, Khalida fearlessly ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing her shop.
In a partnership, Khalida collaborates with her brother-in-law, who crafts the pottery while she handles the sales at the shop.
After completing his studies, Khalida’s eldest son took it upon himself to support the family by securing a private job. Tragically, at the outset of that year, he succumbed to an unexpected brain haemorrhage.
Khalida’s voice quivered as she recounted the painful memory, “He spent the entire day at work, returned home in the evening, had his dinner, and then suddenly suffered a brain haemorrhage. Despite his valiant fight, he passed away eight days later.” Tears welled up in her eyes as she continued, “He was not only a dutiful son but also shouldered immense responsibilities, doing his best to manage everything.”
Khalida’s younger son, who is currently pursuing his studies, lends a helping hand at the shop on occasion. “I begin my day by opening the shop at 8 in the morning,” Khalida shared. “The income from this shop plays a crucial role in funding my son’s education. While it may not be substantial, I am deeply grateful and content with what I earn. Alhamdulillah, it allows me to sustain a modest livelihood for my family,” she added, her hands deftly cleaning the vegetables that her son had brought to her.
Despite being enveloped by a sense of sorrow, Khalida clings to a hopeful outlook. She maintains a determined stance, affirming that she must navigate her path through the numerous challenges that have beset her.
Reflecting on her experiences, Khalida disclosed, “My elder son had come of age for marriage, but Allah had different plans in store. His life was tragically cut short. Now, my focus is on nurturing and guiding my younger son and daughter.” With unwavering determination, she faces the future, fortified by her enduring love for her family.
Khalida firmly holds the belief that women possess the power to achieve anything they set their minds to. “In the face of adversity, people may attempt to undermine us, but in situations where alternatives are scarce, one must persist despite all odds,” she asserted. Her words carried a resolute tone, “Every individual must actively strive for their aspirations; self-reliance is imperative. We must be our own saviours; waiting for external assistance is not a viable option.”
Khalida derives deep satisfaction from the path she has chosen in her career, even though certain relatives have expressed discontent with her choice. “However, one must consider, would they step in and handle everything on our behalf? The answer is no. Therefore, their opinions hold no sway in this matter,” Khalida confidently asserted. Her unwavering conviction reinforces her commitment to her chosen journey.
At every juncture of her life, Khalida’s thoughts are intertwined with the memory of her departed son. “He had begun to contribute to our livelihood, and our circumstances were evolving, but…” Khalida’s voice trailed off, accompanied by a deep sigh that conveyed the weight of her emotions.
