I think the kind of love and attention you get from your school and college friends’ parents is hard to come by later in life.
And if you’re their best friend, they treat you like one of their own.

It’s been many years now, but that iftar, that Eid and that love, is still vivid in my memory, as if it was yesterday.

It was the 5th semester of graduation. The two of us decided to attempt CAT to understand it better (back when the exam was held in December).
As the semester ended and everyone left for the break, I had to stay back to prepare. That’s when my friend offered to host me at her home.

It was the first or second day of Ramzaan, and during those 3 – 4 days, I witnessed everything firsthand.
The rhythm of the house – waking up for sehri, doing namaz, observing the fast – felt surreal and beautiful.
But what truly amazed me was the preparation for iftar. The energy, the excitement, the sheer love poured into every dish – was incredible.

I was just about to have chicken soup when my friend stopped me- just in time. When Aunty learned I was vegetarian, she lovingly made a few dishes for me.

Even after all these years, I can still picture that table – laden with vibrant, delicious food, everyone sitting together, saying a prayer, eating, laughing and glowing with happiness.
Those few days, every year remind me of that rounak, that khushi, that warmth – which still lingers in my heart.

And on Eid, all of us friends visited her home again. We were treated to a feast – but the taste of the Sheer Khurma and Kimami Sewai, rich with almonds and pistachios, still remains etched in our memory.

And then came my favorite surprise – Eidi.
When Aunty handed it to each of us with a warm smile and so much love…we all grinned ear to ear.

And later she making an effort to come for my wedding, whenever I spoke to her, even after all these years, her love and warmth towards me, is still the same.

May your Eid be just as full of love, laughter, and moments that stay with you for a lifetime.