A Tribute to My Beloved Mamuz: Marhoom Mohammad Ilyas Chishti and Marhoom Mohammad Ibrahim Chishti, A Bond beyond Lifetime.

A Tribute to My Beloved Mamuz: Marhoom Mohammad Ilyas Chishti and Marhoom Mohammad Ibrahim Chishti, A Bond beyond Lifetime

 By:  SYED MAJID GILANI

Today, November 1st, marks a poignant anniversary, a day to cherish memories of my revered maternal uncle, Mohammad Ibrahim Chishti, who left this world on this day in 2021.

My "Matamaal," once resonated with the warmth of my maternal grandparents, Marhoom Nizam ud din Chishti and Marhoomah Qazi Habbla Begum. Their love and guidance nurtured the matamaal, creating a sanctuary of joy and togetherness. After their passing, my mamuz inherited not only the family legacy, but also the responsibility of upholding the warmth and love that defined my Matamaal. 

The signboard at the main gate, once bearing our grandfathers name ‘N D Chishti’, now proudly displayed ‘M I Chishti’, symbolizing the unity of my mamus, Mohammad Ilyas Chishti and Mohammad Ibrahim Chishti. Their bond was unparalleled, a testament to the power of brotherly love. They were two bodies with a single soul, their relationship woven into the fabric of our family.

 I vividly remember my childhood, where my mamuz would visit our home together, their camaraderie and affection inspiring awe. Their exceptional influence on each other was evident, with my elder mamu's guidance and wisdom complemented by my younger mamu's respect and adherence. Both mamuz, retired from distinguished government services – one from Judiciary and the other from Revenue---utilized their expertise to strengthen and nourish familial bonds and relationships. . Their timely interventions infused with empathy and understanding, maintained harmony within the families and relations. 

Fate, however, had other plans. On November 1st, 2021, Monday, my younger mamu, Mohammad Ibrahim Chishti, passed away peacefully at home, leaving our family reeling in shock. The loss was devastating, but for my elder mamu, it was unbearable. His grief was palpable, his health rapidly deteriorating.On Friday, November 5th, 2021, the day of mourning, as relatives, friends, and neighbors gathered to pay their respects, my elder mamu's condition worsened. Rushed to SKIMS Soura, hospital, he struggled to cope with the loss of his lifetime friend and companion. His final moments were filled with memories of his beloved brother. In the evening of the same day, just four days after his brother's departure, on November 5th, 2021, Friday, my elder mamu, Mohammad Ilyas Chishti, joined his brother in the afterlife, leaving our families with an unfillable void. 

Their passing has taught me that some bonds are truly eternal, transcending mortality. As I reflect on their lives, I am reminded of the significance of family ties and the power of love. My mamuz legacy continues to inspire me, their selflessness, wisdom, and devotion to one another a guiding force in my life. Today, a visit to Makbara Chishtiyah, Sona Masjid, Fateh Kadal, Srinagar, where my revered mamuz rest in peace, filled my heart with solace and comfort. Offering Fateh Khwani prayers at their graveside allowed me to reconnect with their loving presence and cherish the memories we shared.

May Allah bless their souls in heaven, reunite them in peace, and watch over their families, filling our hearts with solace and strength. Aameen. 

Syed Majid Gilani is a writer and works as a GST Inspector for the Government of Jammu & Kashmir. He can be reached at syedmajid6676@gmail.com