While the citizens of the country were blanched in the cold waves of November, the hearts of Maqsood’s family were burning. They had lost the head of the family, Umar, to cow vigilantism. Umar Khan (42) was shot dead on suspicion of smuggling cows in November 2017.
He, along with his three other companions, was allegedly transporting some cows from Alwar to a village in Bharatpur. On his way, he was stopped, attacked with firearms, and was eventually killed. His lifeless body was later found on the railway track.
Umar’s family was aghast by the loss. Never in their dreams did they think they would lose a member like this.
A few years prior to his passing, Umar had planned to build a house for his family. However, he passed away before the construction could be completed. His house remained partially built for years as the family faced financial difficulties following Umar’s passing.
Miles2Smile learned about Umar’s incomplete house and traveled to Ghatmika to evaluate its state and assess the necessary support.
“If this house gets built, we will have a roof over our heads… We have been living in a rented house. How long will we continue like this?” Maqsood, son of late Umar, said while talking to Miles2Smile
“We feel pain and sorrow. We know how difficult life will be without a father,” he added.
Miles2Smile met Umar’s family after six years of his death, but the pain seemed fresh. The family was still battling with both the emotional and financial loss.
Shelter, Solace, and Strength
Standing inside the partially constructed house, overgrown with tall grasses that give it an abandoned appearance, Kurshidan shared with Miles2Smile how her life has become as desolate as the structure itself.
“We live in a rented house… If we had our own home, we would live there,” Kurshidan said.
Seeing the family’s struggles and their deteriorating home, Miles2Smile swore a vow to help Maqsood construct his father’s dream house.
The organization updated a fundraiser for the house, and within just two months, not only were the funds raised, but the house was also completed.
“I am happy that my father’s house stands tall today. I am grateful that we have a home. Without Miles2Smile’s support, this wouldn’t have been possible. Standing inside our completed house today feels surreal—I never thought this day would come,” said Maqsood on the day of his house inauguration.
Upon the house’s completion, Miles2Smile organized a housewarming ceremony to make the family feel welcomed and cherished.
A wave of happiness was swept over the family while the housewarming ceremony was inaugurated. “ I feel blessed and honored today,” Maqsood said with a broad smile on his face.
