In this captivating article, I share two remarkable pictures that belong to the esteemed family of Late Nawab Qutub Uddin Khan of Tank. The Nawab was a contemporary of my late grandfather, Prince Sardar Abdur Khan Effendi, both renowned for their passion for hunting. However, these images are not merely about grand hunts; they carry with them a tale of resilience and benevolence that shaped the life of my own father.
During one of the hunts, an unfortunate accident left my father with osteomyelitis, a serious infection in the tibia bone. His young life was in grave danger, and the prospects of amputation loomed ominously. It was at this critical juncture that the then Maharaja Hari Singh, ruler of Kashmir, intervened with compassion. He arranged for a skilled surgeon from England to treat the young boy, sparing him from the agony of losing his leg. My father’s memories of this trying period are punctuated with gratitude for the benevolent Late Sarfaraz Khan of Mardan, who frequently visited him during the prolonged hospitalization. Those visits became cherished moments that remained etched in his heart until his last breath. Even during his illness leading to his eventual passing on 20th February 2006, my cousin Khan Abbas Sarfaraz Khan continued the tradition of visiting and caring for him in Islamabad.
The vintage Bentley Car featured in one of the pictures takes us back to an era when people were distinguished by their noble bloodlines, and their actions were guided by high ethical and moral standards, whether in times of peace or war. The nobility of character was a hallmark of those times, shaping the destiny of individuals and their communities.
However, the passage of time has brought about significant changes in society, and the values once held dear have undergone transformation. Nowadays, people are often judged by their material wealth rather than their heroic deeds or moral standing. It is disheartening to witness the rise of individuals who attain elite status overnight, often through questionable means. In particular, property dealers in Pakistan, with their vast wealth and influence, have left an indelible mark on the country’s politics, corrupting the fabric of society.
As I look at the picture taken eight years ago, I see the adorable grandchild of Nawabzada Tariq Khan, alongside his daughter and son-in-law. Time has passed, and the little doll has grown into a young lady, her parents more seasoned with experience. Yet, no matter how much the world changes, the wisdom of the past remains invaluable. Nawabzada Tariq Khan epitomizes the virtues of courage and character that have stood the test of time, a living embodiment of the traditions of the old school.
In conclusion, the pictures presented here not only transport us to a bygone era of nobility and honor but also serve as a reminder of the timeless values that should guide our lives today. Let us cherish the memories of the past while aspiring to uphold the standards of integrity and benevolence set by our forefathers. May Nawabzada Tariq Khan be blessed with good health and a long life, continuing to inspire us all.
