More as a friend than Phupha to me was Lala.He went away so calmly as if he wanted to take a short nap. No huh-ha. On the 18th of January, 2025, Ghulam Qadir Bhat, little above 80 years of age, fondly known as Lala, from the serene village of Gudsutho in district Budgam, bid farewell to this world after a week-long mild illness. Just a little short to a year ago, almost to the date, Lala’s beloved wife, Taja Begum, departed in a similar manner. The couple, who were happily married for nearly 60 years, have now reunited in what we hope is the eternal bliss of Jannah. They leave behind a legacy of love, service, and resilience, embodied by their four children—one son and three daughters—all of whom are settled in life, Alhamdulillah. Lala’s life was nothing short of extraordinary. From his service as a junior officer in the Indian Air Force to his role as a family man and community leader, his journey was marked by values that deserve to be celebrated and emulated. Lala was the epitome of a devoted husband and father. His enduring partnership with Taja Begum, built on mutual respect and unwavering faith, served as a model for a happy and fulfilling married life. Together, they cultivated a home enriched with love, discipline, and moral guidance. His children grew up under his watchful eyes, receiving not only education but also invaluable lessons on character and self-reliance. His steadfast commitment to their well-being ensured that each of them settled into stable, meaningful lives. Lala was a neutrality and minimalist, these are the rear qualities that one can still demonstrate in present day materialistic and capitalistic life. He mastered the balance of maintaining healthy relationships with all around despite domestic and societal challenges.
“Lala’s life serves as a reminder of what it means to live with purpose and faith. In an age where values often take a backseat to ambition, his humility, integrity, and service-oriented approach stand out as rare virtues. His departure has left a void not just in his family but in the community he nurtured and inspired. I am personally lost deeply, as he was more as a friend to me than Phupha. Any issue in my life, my first stop was Lala. As we bid farewell to this remarkable soul, we find solace in the belief that Lala and his beloved Taja Begum are now reunited in eternal peace. Their legacy will continue to live on in their children and the countless lives they touched. May Allah grant them and all our elders the highest place in Jannah. Ameen!)
Lala’s years in the Indian Air Force, particularly his tenure at the Pathankot air base, instilled in him a sense of discipline and duty that extended far beyond his professional life. As a junior officer, he earned the respect of his peers for his dedication, calm demeanor, and ability to lead with integrity. These qualities naturally carried over into his post-retirement years, where he became a respected elder in his village. In Gudsutho, Lala was not just a neighbor; he was a confidant, a mediator, and a guide. His ability to listen, coupled with his fair-mindedness, made him a sought-after figure in resolving local disputes. Whether it was offering advice to the youth or supporting families in times of need, Lala’s presence brought a sense of calm and reassurance. His generosity was not limited to material support; he shared his time, wisdom, and faith with those around him. He believed in charity and never send back anyone who approached him for help. Lala’s life serves as a reminder of what it means to live with purpose and faith. In an age where values often take a backseat to ambition, his humility, integrity, and service-oriented approach stand out as rare virtues. His departure has left a void not just in his family but in the community he nurtured and inspired. I am personally lost deeply, as he was more as a friend to me than Phupha. Any issue in my life, my first stop was Lala. As we bid farewell to this remarkable soul, we find solace in the belief that Lala and his beloved Taja Begum are now reunited in eternal peace. Their legacy will continue to live on in their children and the countless lives they touched. May Allah grant them and all our elders the highest place in Jannah. Ameen!
(The author is a teacher at Govt Degree College Khansahib, Budgam. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
Dr. Ashraf Zainabi
[email protected]
