Three scenes of happiness kindled a light of hope in my mind last weekend. In a land normally filled with fear, strife and violence, there were scenes of joy, jubilation and harmony, if only for a little while. Indeed, Pakistanis are truly resilient. They celebrated the end of Ramadan feast – Eid El Fitr – with high spirits and enthusiasm despite an overall environment of uncertainty and chaos.
In Swat, where the now ‘iconic’ Malalah was shot and wounded, domestic tourists and locals thronged the valley and the bazaars. Jubilant crowds gathered and had fun, food and entertainment in the public parks, other public places and along the beautiful Swat River. Adorned in festive Eid garments, the young and old alike made the best of this golden opportunity and enjoyed themselves in a family atmosphere. The lush green valley, the roaring waters of the river and the floating clouds created a truly heavenly environment.
In Charsadda, along the historic Grand Trunk Road, Eid celebrations had spilled over to the riverbanks where a festive site had sprung up. People bathed in the river, took part in fun games as well as roasted and barbequed freshwater fish which they then enjoyed to their fill in this rare atmosphere of calm and peace.
Near Lahore, on the banks of the ‘Ravi’ River, a chair lift ride park became the center of attention for hundreds of families celebrating the 5-day Eid holidays. Chair trolleys swung over the green fields hauling children and grownups in the best of their colorful attire. Residents of Lahore, better known as ‘Lahoris’ are indeed known for their lively attitude and great taste for quality food.
If only for a short while, the Pakistani nation had become alive with hope, harmony and happiness on these joyous days of Eid.
If only for a short while, the Pakistani nation had become alive with hope, harmony and happiness on these joyous days of Eid.
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