Timeless Memories: A Father’s Journey with His Children

✒️:. Syed Majid Gilani

Reflecting on my life’s journey, an overwhelming sense of gratitude and love fills my heart, especially when I think of the day my first child, Arshad, was born. December 15, 2011, is forever etched in my memory, marking the moment he arrived at Modern Hospital, Raj Bagh. The quiet calm of winter seems to linger even now, and memories of laughter, tiny cries, and tears rise like a tide, filling my heart to overflowing.

Under the tender care of Prof. Dr. Bilquees Jameela, who watched over his mother with great dedication, Arshad grew within her—a living symbol of life’s most precious gift. Then, under the skilled guidance of Prof. Dr. Tasneem Gowhar, he took his first breath, and in that single moment, our hearts were irrevocably stolen.

One of my very first acts of fatherhood was to recite the Azaan in his ears immediately after his birth. It was more than a religious duty; it was a sacred and deeply intimate moment—a divine welcome to the world for my firstborn. I named him Arshad, meaning “the guided one,” with the hope that Allah’s light would always lead his path. Holding him close, a wave of emotions—love, awe, and responsibility—washed over me, forming an unbreakable bond. On his second day, Dr. Nisar Ahmad, a skilled surgeon, performed his circumcision, a deeply meaningful religious act that I was blessed to witness.

I can still vividly recall Mohammad Shafi, our trusted family hairdresser, visiting our home, Gilan House, to perform Arshad’s first head shave. That tender and sacred ritual remains forever etched in my memory. Soon after, a large studio portrait prepared by Mimmic Colour Lab was proudly displayed in our lobby. The moment became even more special when my late grandfather, Abaji, personally signed it and beautifully calligraphed Arshad’s name and birth date on the back. The pride and love I felt then remain as vivid today as they were at that time.

The day his mother and I bought Arshad his first tricycle from Kawoosa Sons in Nowhatta is still vividly remembered. That bright blue tricycle became his instant favourite. His Daadi would lovingly watch over him as he pedalled along the pathway and lawn, ensuring that every turn was safe.

Among my most treasured memories is the day we took him to the Hazratbal Shrine, where Nimaz-e-Shukrana was offered to Allah in gratitude for the gift of life. Later, he was enrolled at Crescent Public School, Naseem Bagh, marking the blessed beginning of his academic journey. His first day of school was a milestone for our entire family. The sound of the school van arriving at the main gate became a daily ritual of anticipation and joy. Standing there with his mother, Daadi, and my late grandfather Abaji created moments that remain deeply engraved in my heart.

Visits to the revered Khanquah Moulla Shrine and our ancestral graveyard within its premises are memories I cherish dearly. Hearing Arshad’s innocent voice recite Surah Fatiha for his ancestors filled my heart with pride and a quiet, gentle joy. It felt as though those resting there smiled upon hearing his pure recitation.

On April 30, 2014, our family was blessed once again with the arrival of Sarah, whose birth illuminated our lives with renewed joy and love. She was born in the same Modern Hospital where Arshad had arrived.

At that precious moment, I kissed her forehead, whispered the gentle words of the Azaan into her ears, and named her Sarah—meaning “purity and brightness.” Nothing mattered more to me than the health and well-being of my wife and our newborn daughter. The sound of Sarah’s first cry filled the room, bringing waves of joy and relief.

It was a moment of pure bliss and deep gratitude—a reminder of the precious gift of life. The kindness of Prof. Dr. Tasneem Gowhar, who performed the cesarean, is remembered with heartfelt appreciation, along with the personal care of Mr. Jan Sahib, the respected owner of Modern Hospital.

On the day Sarah was born, Srinagar was under strict curfew. Had it not been for my position as a Sub-Inspector in the Vigilance & Inspections Wing at the time, managing the situation might have been impossible—Alhamdulillah. Nimaz-e-Shukrana was offered at Khanquah Moulla Shrine in gratitude for her safe arrival. Sarah’s first head shave, performed by Mohammad Shafi, remains a tender and spiritually significant memory, forever etched in my heart.

On October 23, 2019, Murshad completed our family. Born at Modern Hospital under the expert care of Prof. Dr. Tasneem Gowhar, he stole our hearts instantly. His arrival brought another moment of calm joy and fulfilment. As with Arshad and Sarah, I whispered the Azaan into his ears and named him Murshad—“the already guided,” praying that Allah’s guidance would always accompany him. On his second day, Dr. Nisar Ahmad, Surgeon, performed his circumcision with care. Holding him in my arms, I felt a profound connection that words cannot fully express.

Hugs, kisses, and whispered words of love were shared endlessly with Murshad. Every smile, every tiny step, and every laugh filled my heart with immeasurable joy.

During the global lockdown of 2020, traditional barber visits were not possible. I purchased a trimmer from Citizen Electronics, Lalbazar, and performed Murshad’s first head shave myself at home, taking every precaution. The joy on Arshad’s and Sarah’s faces turned that simple act into a memory that will be cherished forever.

The quarantine period remains etched in my memory with striking clarity. Confined to a small room on the ground floor, even the briefest glimpse through narrow doorframe gaps became a source of comfort and quiet hope. Those fleeting moments carried reassurance, and every memory of that time is cherished deeply as a reminder of patience, resilience, and faith.
Securing their school admissions, arranging a tuition madam, and inviting a Moulvi Sahib for Quranic lessons ensured that the children had a strong foundation. Murshad was gently encouraged to join through play-based learning, preparing him for his own journey.

Morning walks, cycling trips, picnics, and family outings created moments of pure happiness. The laughter shared while passing through Chandni Chowk, Gumat Bazar, and Jewel Chowk remains unforgettable—carefree and innocent moments that continue to live vividly within me.

I often share my stories, hoping my children will find guidance, strength, and inspiration within them. Though hardships did arise, they only deepened our bond and strengthened our connection. Visits to sacred and spiritually significant places—Dargah Hazrat Nizam-ud-Din Auliya, Charar-e-Sharief, Hazratbal Shrine, Khanquah Moulla, Dastgeer Sahib, and Tujjar Sharief—laid a profound spiritual foundation that I trust will continue to guide them throughout their lives.

Traditions passed down through generations have remained my compass. The teachings of my late great-grandfather, Moulana Syed Mohammad Yasin Shah Gilani—a revered saint and Islamic scholar—have always inspired me. His wisdom, humility, and devotion form the foundation upon which I have tried to build my children’s lives. I pray they carry this noble legacy forward with dignity and faith.

The laughter and love of my children have always been my greatest strength. By Allah’s grace, they never faced any serious illness—only the occasional childhood cough, cold, or stomach upset. Their health was cared for with utmost attention, and I remain deeply grateful to Prof. Dr. Wajid Ali for his reassuring dedication. I also acknowledge the caring team at Tawheed Medical Hall, Alamgari Bazar, whose gentle handling made even vaccinations a “cry-free” experience.

I place complete faith in Allah’s mercy, trusting wholeheartedly that truth always finds its way. My aim has never been limited to being just a father; I have always strived to be a friend—one who encourages, believes, listens, and walks beside his children at every step.

My life is devoted to my children. I promise to remain their rock, their guiding light, and their safest haven. With love, tears, and unending longing, my heart beats solely for Arshad, Sarah, and Murshad. My life’s purpose is simple yet profound: to see them remain forever connected to their roots, their heritage, and the values that define who they are.

Syed Majid Gilani is a Kashmiri government officer and a reflective writer-storyteller. These writings are extracts from his autobiography. He can be contacted at syedmajid6676@gmail.com.

By Syed Majid Gilani

Reflecting on my life’s journey, an overwhelming sense of gratitude and love fills my heart, especially when I think of the day my first child, Arshad, was born. December 15, 2011, is forever etched in my memory, marking the moment he arrived at Modern Hospital, Raj Bagh. The quiet calm of winter seems to linger even now, and memories of laughter, tiny cries, and tears rise like a tide, filling my heart to overflowing.

Under the tender care of Prof. Dr. Bilquees Jameela, who watched over his mother with great dedication, Arshad grew within her—a living symbol of life’s most precious gift. Then, under the skilled guidance of Prof. Dr. Tasneem Gowhar, he took his first breath, and in that single moment, our hearts were irrevocably stolen.

One of my very first acts of fatherhood was to recite the Azaan in his ears immediately after his birth. It was more than a religious duty; it was a sacred and deeply intimate moment—a divine welcome to the world for my firstborn. I named him Arshad, meaning “the guided one,” with the hope that Allah’s light would always lead his path. Holding him close, a wave of emotions—love, awe, and responsibility—washed over me, forming an unbreakable bond. On his second day, Dr. Nisar Ahmad, a skilled surgeon, performed his circumcision, a deeply meaningful religious act that I was blessed to witness.

I can still vividly recall Mohammad Shafi, our trusted family hairdresser, visiting our home, Gilan House, to perform Arshad’s first head shave. That tender and sacred ritual remains forever etched in my memory. Soon after, a large studio portrait prepared by Mimmic Colour Lab was proudly displayed in our lobby. The moment became even more special when my late grandfather, Abaji, personally signed it and beautifully calligraphed Arshad’s name and birth date on the back. The pride and love I felt then remain as vivid today as they were at that time.

The day his mother and I bought Arshad his first tricycle from Kawoosa Sons in Nowhatta is still vividly remembered. That bright blue tricycle became his instant favourite. His Daadi would lovingly watch over him as he pedalled along the pathway and lawn, ensuring that every turn was safe.

Among my most treasured memories is the day we took him to the Hazratbal Shrine, where Nimaz-e-Shukrana was offered to Allah in gratitude for the gift of life. Later, he was enrolled at Crescent Public School, Naseem Bagh, marking the blessed beginning of his academic journey. His first day of school was a milestone for our entire family. The sound of the school van arriving at the main gate became a daily ritual of anticipation and joy. Standing there with his mother, Daadi, and my late grandfather Abaji created moments that remain deeply engraved in my heart.

Visits to the revered Khanquah Moulla Shrine and our ancestral graveyard within its premises are memories I cherish dearly. Hearing Arshad’s innocent voice recite Surah Fatiha for his ancestors filled my heart with pride and a quiet, gentle joy. It felt as though those resting there smiled upon hearing his pure recitation.

On April 30, 2014, our family was blessed once again with the arrival of Sarah, whose birth illuminated our lives with renewed joy and love. She was born in the same Modern Hospital where Arshad had arrived.

At that precious moment, I kissed her forehead, whispered the gentle words of the Azaan into her ears, and named her Sarah—meaning “purity and brightness.” Nothing mattered more to me than the health and well-being of my wife and our newborn daughter. The sound of Sarah’s first cry filled the room, bringing waves of joy and relief.

It was a moment of pure bliss and deep gratitude—a reminder of the precious gift of life. The kindness of Prof. Dr. Tasneem Gowhar, who performed the cesarean, is remembered with heartfelt appreciation, along with the personal care of Mr. Jan Sahib, the respected owner of Modern Hospital.

On the day Sarah was born, Srinagar was under strict curfew. Had it not been for my position as a Sub-Inspector in the Vigilance & Inspections Wing at the time, managing the situation might have been impossible—Alhamdulillah. Nimaz-e-Shukrana was offered at Khanquah Moulla Shrine in gratitude for her safe arrival. Sarah’s first head shave, performed by Mohammad Shafi, remains a tender and spiritually significant memory, forever etched in my heart.

On October 23, 2019, Murshad completed our family. Born at Modern Hospital under the expert care of Prof. Dr. Tasneem Gowhar, he stole our hearts instantly. His arrival brought another moment of calm joy and fulfilment. As with Arshad and Sarah, I whispered the Azaan into his ears and named him Murshad—“the already guided,” praying that Allah’s guidance would always accompany him. On his second day, Dr. Nisar Ahmad, Surgeon, performed his circumcision with care. Holding him in my arms, I felt a profound connection that words cannot fully express.

Hugs, kisses, and whispered words of love were shared endlessly with Murshad. Every smile, every tiny step, and every laugh filled my heart with immeasurable joy.

During the global lockdown of 2020, traditional barber visits were not possible. I purchased a trimmer from Citizen Electronics, Lalbazar, and performed Murshad’s first head shave myself at home, taking every precaution. The joy on Arshad’s and Sarah’s faces turned that simple act into a memory that will be cherished forever.

The quarantine period remains etched in my memory with striking clarity. Confined to a small room on the ground floor, even the briefest glimpse through narrow doorframe gaps became a source of comfort and quiet hope. Those fleeting moments carried reassurance, and every memory of that time is cherished deeply as a reminder of patience, resilience, and faith.
Securing their school admissions, arranging a tuition madam, and inviting a Moulvi Sahib for Quranic lessons ensured that the children had a strong foundation. Murshad was gently encouraged to join through play-based learning, preparing him for his own journey.

Morning walks, cycling trips, picnics, and family outings created moments of pure happiness. The laughter shared while passing through Chandni Chowk, Gumat Bazar, and Jewel Chowk remains unforgettable—carefree and innocent moments that continue to live vividly within me.

I often share my stories, hoping my children will find guidance, strength, and inspiration within them. Though hardships did arise, they only deepened our bond and strengthened our connection. Visits to sacred and spiritually significant places—Dargah Hazrat Nizam-ud-Din Auliya, Charar-e-Sharief, Hazratbal Shrine, Khanquah Moulla, Dastgeer Sahib, and Tujjar Sharief—laid a profound spiritual foundation that I trust will continue to guide them throughout their lives.

Traditions passed down through generations have remained my compass. The teachings of my late great-grandfather, Moulana Syed Mohammad Yasin Shah Gilani—a revered saint and Islamic scholar—have always inspired me. His wisdom, humility, and devotion form the foundation upon which I have tried to build my children’s lives. I pray they carry this noble legacy forward with dignity and faith.

The laughter and love of my children have always been my greatest strength. By Allah’s grace, they never faced any serious illness—only the occasional childhood cough, cold, or stomach upset. Their health was cared for with utmost attention, and I remain deeply grateful to Prof. Dr. Wajid Ali for his reassuring dedication. I also acknowledge the caring team at Tawheed Medical Hall, Alamgari Bazar, whose gentle handling made even vaccinations a “cry-free” experience.

I place complete faith in Allah’s mercy, trusting wholeheartedly that truth always finds its way. My aim has never been limited to being just a father; I have always strived to be a friend—one who encourages, believes, listens, and walks beside his children at every step.

My life is devoted to my children. I promise to remain their rock, their guiding light, and their safest haven. With love, tears, and unending longing, my heart beats solely for Arshad, Sarah, and Murshad. My life’s purpose is simple yet profound: to see them remain forever connected to their roots, their heritage, and the values that define who they are.

Syed Majid Gilani is a Kashmiri government officer and a reflective writer-storyteller. These writings are extracts from his autobiography. He can be contacted at syedmajid6676@gmail.com.