Grey Hair, Grey Beard: A Witness to My Struggles

Amidst the bustling streets of downtown Srinagar, a city cradled by snow-capped mountains and mirrored in serene lakes, my life's journey began. | was bom in the historicarea of Khangah Moulla,a place named after the revered Khangah Moulla Shrine, located in the heart of downtown Srinagar.

- BY SYED MAJID GILANI

This spiritual and cultural epicenter, with its narrow alleys, bustling bazaars, and vibrant energy, shaped the foundation of my identity. Thestreetsandsounds ofthis old city became the backdrop of my earlylie flingmewithadeepsenseof belongingandaconnectiontotherich heritage thatruns throughthe veins of my family.

Growing up in Srinagar, | was surroundedbybeauty,bothnaturalandcuttural. Thetoweringhils,thesparklingDal Lake, and the lush gardens of Mughal architecturecreatedaserenebackdrop, while the mighty Jehlum River flowed nearby, adding to the natural beauty of ‘our surroundings. Yet itwas the values instilled by my family that truly shaped rmycharacter Myparents andespecially my grandparents, infused inmea deep sense of faith, which has sustained me throughifeStrials. hesevaluesbecame the compass that guided me through manystorms.

When|wasachild,stilinmyupper KG classes, my family moved to Gilan House in Botshah Colony, Lalbazar, a posh neighbourhood in the upper downtown, about eight kilometers from the city centre. At that time, the area was a picturesque haven, with apple orchards and pomegranate trees in abundance, their vibrant fruits blending seamlessly with the lush greenery. This house, lovingly built by my grandfather, became the heart and soul of our family tis more than justa home;itisa legacy, allving testament to our roots, holding the echoes of our ancestors and carrying the hopes I now hold for my own children. The walls of Gilan House are steeped in memories of laughter, prayers, and cherished stories, each momentathreadintherichtapestryof unityandheritagethatmy grandfather,

Syed Abdul Rashid Gilani, so lovingly woveforus.