Children say they belong to both nations
abu dhabi — India and Pakistan may be two different countries on the map. But for the children of Indo-Pak couple growing in the UAE, both are places they call home.
“I am equally an Indian and Pakistani. I love both the countries. I cannot choose one over the other,” said Ali Tanvir, whose father Tanvir Hussain is from Pakistan, and mother Zeenat is from India.
“I don’t think one country is greater than the other. I tell my Pakistani friends that they should respect India because that is where they originally came from. And to my Indian friends, I say all Pakistanis are their brothers because they belonged to the same country. There is no need to nurse old grudges,” said Ali who holds an Indian passport.
Ali’s sister, Fizza, 11, also feels the same. “When people ask me whether I am an Indian or Pakistani, I say, I am both. I have been to both the countries, and I don’t think they are even that different. There are many similarities that make me feel at home,” said Fizza.
“I love Bollywood as much as I love Pakistani music and movie. I want to keep it that way.”
Zahra Mustapha, 18, born to Indian mother, Zareena and Pakistani father, Mustapha, said she feels inspired listening to the love story of her parents.
“I grew up listening to how my mom and dad met, and got married against all odds. It is really special and I am happy to be part of this very special family,” said Zahra who just finished her grade 12.
Despite having a Pakistani passport, Zahra used to go to an Indian school. “I have never felt any prejudice against me from anybody. And I feel equally accepted in Pakistani circles. So I truly believe that I am both Indian and Pakistani,” said Zahra.
She added that growing up in an Indo-Pak family has helped her to appreciate love without borders. Her parents Zarina and Mustapha said they have always tried to instill the value of friendship and taught their children to be good human beings, not Indians or Pakistanis.
“It is important to educate children and help them broaden their horizon and think beyond the borders. There could be enmity at political levels, but our children should rise above that. Growing up in the UAE, they have learned to respect and appreciate other ethnicities, nationalities,” said Zeenat.
anjana@khaleejtimes.com