It hasn’t been easy for us to accept the sad demise of our legendary writer Bano Qudsia, a mother and a friend to many, especially to the poor and the underprivileged. Residing in her home, famously called Dastaan Saraay, with her late husband and renowned writer Ashfaq Ahmed, she was known for welcoming everyone regardless of social status, cast, faith and creed.
Even after he passed away, she continued welcoming anyone who sought her mentorship, or stopped by for alms. By doing so, she clearly set an example of peace,
coexistence and social harmony. She was affectionately called Bano Aapa by not only her family and friends, but by the entire nation that looked up to her as a role model, a mentor, and a teacher.
A towering writer with an inspirational personality, Bano Qudsia’s writings has a profound impact on the readers. Generations on, readers find solace and spiritual guidance through her words.
One of her signature topics was love, and Bano Aapa expressed and explained ‘love’ in a manner that moved even the coldest of hearts. Sara Babar, in a tribute she wrote for an online publication, wrote,
“Her biggest quality was that she could love with all her heart.” Commenting on Bano Aapa’s interaction with her husband that Sara Babar noticed during a visit at Dastaan Saraay she wrote,
