Nano ka Ghar

(trans: Grandma’s Home)

It was December 2018 when we last visited Pakistan. It was an 18-day holiday, primarily to attend the wedding of my youngest sister. We were all tied up and employed with the engaging chores that all weddings call for. Time went by and we flew back with a heavy heart. Three years and two months later, fate paved our way to Pakistan again (Covid made traveling knotty). It wasn’t planned until my mother fell and fractured her wrist, the cluster of emotions gushed in, and I along with my kids rushed to Pakistan (she is keeping up well now, Alhamdolillah!).

It was a unique experience for my 4-year-old as he was experiencing what Pakistan holds for us, for the very first time as a toddler. He witnessed the beautiful relations we thrive on and was gripped with the aura of my mother’s place that now every grandchild of her calls ‘Nano ka Ghar’.

I remember as kids when we used to go to our ‘Nano ka Ghar’, it entailed nothing but love, affection, warmth, care, and harmony. Nostalgia weaved the silhouettes of the past with the patterns of the present and flushed my heart with so much warmth and thankfulness. Seeing my kids bonding with their cousins – laughing, running, and playing around took me back to the times that I used to spend at my Nano’s. Time rewound and it was all giggles, laughter, cuddles, and love that echoed in the air.

My blog today is a picture story of the house that has transitioned from ‘Mama ka Ghar’ to ‘Nano ka Ghar’ in all these years.

My Waniya & Yahya relishing their Nano’s terrace

This archaic door, rich in history, from my Father’s hometown, dates back to the 1700s

‘Nano’ with all her Grandchildren – A picture that waited 3+ years to get clicked.

‘Nano’ and The Squad

Waniya discussing something with her her ‘Nano’, while the other two injecting playfulness into the mix.

Some More Snuggles

This one was busy with his antics while others snuggled with their ‘Nano’.

Our Foundation, Our Parents!

Waniya viewing the pictures from her Nano’s picture gallery. This is my Grandfather (maternal) Malik Noor Muhammad Khan Tiwana who served as a Deputy Commissioner in Pakistan Administrative Services.

A Picture Worth A Thousand Words

One Fine Afternoon

These little two are 6 months apart and being around them was pure bliss.

My little niece settling herself up on the chair-back settee

Every nook and cranny of this house has fragments that I carry along with me wherever I go. This place has the incense of my mapapa, that I can never part with.

This window panel somewhat became the favorite spot of my son.

The change of expressions following ‘Khalu’s’ arrival.

Good-byes used to be very difficult for him, as he bonded extremely well with his cousin brother and Khalu.

The beautiful Callistemon Tree

The Soirée

The Bondings

Late-night bed-time rituals (kids with their Khalas)

Thus, our stay at ‘Nano ka Ghar’ came to an end, only to know that there is still more to look forward to (click to see). We had to go back to Waniya’s & Yahya’s Baba who awaited us for Ramadan. I was so grateful to The Almighty that He enabled us all to meet each other in good health, faith, and in the best of our spirits. He blessed us with the beautiful moments that we cherished together as a family. I got to meet my youngest nephew for the first time. My kids bonded so well with their Nana & Nano. The cousins got to know each other more. My sister R visited me every single day and the other one traveled from another city to spend some time with me. Little gestures weighed more and there was nothing not to be thankful for.

From where I am standing today, I see that it’s important to have gratitude for the special bond that comes with our siblings and it’s equally important to acknowledge the importance of such a lifelong relationship. We all grow old to the outside world but we know each other as we always were. May The Almighty keep all our loved ones safe and may they thrive happily. May He bless our parents with health and longevity.

To Good Times…

~ QuratulAin Hamza