Loss, Love, and Legacy

Sami Jan and Rameez Khurshid’s (Both Name Changed) lives took a dramatic turn in 2010 when they lost both their parents, Khursheed Ahmad Dar to cancer and Juhi Yasmeen to a heart attack, within a span of just 40 days. 

At the tender ages of 10 and 8, they were thrust into a future that seemed both uncertain and daunting.

Their grandmother, Hajira Banoo, a woman who had already endured the loss of her husband, took them under her care. Despite her age and limited resources, she became their pillar of strength, providing them with the love and support they desperately needed to navigate through their overwhelming grief.

In the serene, picturesque Damhal Hanjipora area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district, the two siblings displayed unbreakable resilience and love, touching the hearts of many. 

Sami and Rameez continued their education at the local private institute, Haji Alam Din Damhal Hanjipora, but they faced numerous difficulties, from acquiring necessary school materials to paying fees.

Their plight reached the Humanity the Ultimate Faith (HUF). Understanding the gravity of their situation, an HUF social worker connected them with the local Bait-ul-Mal, which generously covered their educational expenses, ensuring that their studies continued uninterrupted.

“After connecting to HUF, we never had to worry about school fees or materials,” Sami recalled. “Whether the HUF or the Bait-ul-Mal paid out, we never had to suffer for these essential things again.”

Hajira Banoo echoed her granddaughter’s sentiments. “Whenever I faced a difficulty or felt distressed, I had no one to turn to but HUF. All my troubles eased because of HUF.”

HUF’s support extended beyond immediate educational needs. Recognising the importance of long-term stability, HUF workers prepared all necessary documents, including their father’s death certificate, Aadhaar Cards, and income certificates. 

With these in hand, the HUF workers forwarded their case to Mission Vatsalya Kulgam, a government initiative aimed at providing support to vulnerable children.

Through Mission Vatsalya, Rameez  Khurshid was selected for a sponsorship programme, providing him with the financial backing necessary to pursue his dreams without the burden of financial strain. 

This sponsorship allowed him to focus on his studies, a crucial element in his journey to academic excellence.

As the elder sibling, Sami took on responsibilities far beyond her years. 

She ensured that Rameez  continued his education and maintained a semblance of normalcy. 

She often stayed up late, helping him with his homework and comforting him during moments of sadness. 

Her unwavering support and determination played a crucial role in their survival and growth.

Rameez found solace in his sister’s support and their grandmother’s wisdom. 

He channelled his emotions into his studies, dreaming of becoming a doctor, a promise he made to himself to honour his parents’ memory.

Years passed, and their efforts bore fruit. Sami pursued higher education in social work, inspired by her own experiences of loss and recovery. 

Rameez, driven by his promise and his sister’s encouragement, excelled in his studies and gained admission to a prestigious medical college.

Their story, marked by tragedy, is ultimately one of triumph. 

Sami Jan and Rameez Khurshid, under the loving guardianship of their grandmother, transformed their sorrow into strength. 

They emerged as beacons of hope in their community, proving that with love, support, and determination, even the darkest times can lead to a bright future.

Today, the people of Damhal Hanjipora in Kulgam take immense pride in Sami  and Rameez. 

Their journey through adversity has not only inspired many but also highlighted the importance of community support in overcoming personal tragedies. 

The backing of organisations like HUF and Mission Vatsalya have shown that a collective effort can indeed change lives.