Ishq Mubarak

•2• Aagaz

As she gathered her belongings, Meera, her loyal friend, could see the joy in Nora's expression. They exchanged a knowing glance that spoke volumes, acknowledging the unspoken triumph they both felt.

Together, Nora and Meera made their way out of the exam hall, joining the stream of fellow students as they exited. The chatter of relieved students filled the air, a collective sigh of relief after the rigors of the examination.

As Nora stepped out of the exam hall, her heart leaped with joy at the thought of the exam's success. She scanned the area, looking for her father's familiar presence. And there, standing near their car, her baba

Without hesitation, she called out,

"Baba!"
[Dad]

Her voice was a blend of excitement and warmth, filled with genuine affection. She quickened her pace, running toward her father, her books and notes still clutched in her arms.

Ahmed Ali turned, a smile forming on his face as he saw his beloved daughter approaching. Nora's presence always had a way of brightening his day. He extended his arms, ready to embrace her, and as she reached him, they shared a heartfelt hug.

"Baba, aap vishwas nahi karenge ki maine exam mein kitna achha kiya."

[Baba, you won't believe how well I did in the exam]

Nora exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. She was eager to share her success with her father, who had always been her biggest supporter.

Ahmed's eyes twinkled with pride as he looked at his daughter.

"Main tumhari kabiliyat par kabhi shak nahi karta, Nora. Main yaqeen karta hoon ke tumne behtareen kiya hoga."
[I never doubt your abilities, Nora. I'm sure you did splendidly.]

His words were filled with a father's unwavering belief in his child's capabilities.

As they settled into the car, the engine humming to life, Nora couldn't help but bring up the topic that had been on her mind.

"Baba, maine suna ki aapne kisi ilake mein chunav har liya. Kya yeh sach hai?"
[Baba, I heard that you lost the election in some area. Is that true?]

Ahmed Ali sighed, his expression momentarily clouded with concern.

Nora, chalo yahan is bare mein baat na karen."
[Nora, let's not talk about it here,]

he replied, his tone tinged with a hint of weariness. He didn't want to burden his daughter with the complexities of politics, especially after her exam.

Nora sensed her father's hesitation and decided to respect his wish. She nodded silently, understanding the unspoken message. With a soft smile, she leaned back in her seat, choosing not to press further. The car ride continued in a comfortable silence,

When they arrived at their haveli, Ahmed Ali escorted Nora inside. He had to rush to a series of important meetings, but he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the few moments he had spent with his daughter.

"Baba. Mujhe pata hai ki aapke paas mahatvapurn karye honge."
[Baba, go ahead. I know you have important work to attend to]

Nora reassured him. She had always been a source of strength for her father, and she understood the responsibilities that came with his role in the community.

Ahmed Ali gave her a loving pat on the shoulder.

"Tum ek adbhut beti ho, Nora. Main aaj raat phir milunga."
[You're a wonderful daughter, Nora. I'll see you later tonight.]

With that, he left, and Nora watched him go with a mix of pride and concern. The burden of his responsibilities weighed on him, and she couldn't help but worry for his well-being.