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Of moms and gals
As I walked through the entrance of P&G Pakistan’s recently organised event in celebration of their commitment to provide a young patient of cerebral palsy with medical and health care, I witnessed many a familiar faces. Supported by the company’s leading brand, the occasion was a tribute to mothers who have played an important role in encouraging their daughters to achieve their goals and aspirations.
From young female achievers, representatives of organisations working for the empowerment of women and social workers, to jewellery designers, make-up artistes, upcoming celebrities and renowned educationists, the event was attended by a number of prominent Pakistani ladies. TV anchor, Dr Shaista Wahidi, played the hostess, adding just the right amount of glamour to the evening with her light-hearted and cheerful presence, while the Minister for Women’s Development, Dr Saeeda Malik was the chief guest, though she could only stay for a while due to other commitments.
The show commenced with a tear-jerking video clip based on real-life stories of renowned and successful female personalities from different walks of life. Zeenat Saeed, a jewellery designer and owner of Taneez was one of the very first business women in Pakistan. “My mother was and still is my biggest source of motivation and also my biggest support. I started from a simple exhibition of cushion covers, waste paper baskets, mounted paintings and lamp shades, all unique and meticulously executed from my home. But with the help and guidance of my mother, I later managed to get a shop at Park Tower. She is the reason I am here today,” she said.
Speaking at the occasion, Fatima Surraiya Bajia said, “It’s all about mothers. The world revolves around their very being.” Being a well-known playwright and having written many television serials revolving around endearing women characters, Bajia recollected the memories she has of her mother: “She was a fine-looking woman, very well-spoken, well-mannered and well-dressed. I owe all my success and fame to her.”
Beautician Angie Marshall also paid tribute to her mother, claiming that she was there for her when no one else was. “I owe a lot to my mother for she is the one who taught me how to be myself. If it wasn’t for her, I would not be the person that I am today,” she said.
The evening proceeded with the host and the chief guest sharing heart-felt stories about their childhood, celebrating the bond that they shared with their mothers. With the guest list including Bilquis Edhi, Shireen Rehmatullah and photographer Tapu Javeri among other renowned personalities, the well-organised evening progressed smoothly.
A petite Ayesha Omar was the last guest on the show. She said: “I miss my mom every day; she is in Lahore while I have to live in Karachi because of my work.” She shared some of her childhood memories and told the audience that she was raised by a single mom who was very strict about her studies. Ayesha graduated three years ago but she still remembers how it was like when she was a student. “We were not even allowed to stay over at our friends’ or socialise too much. I know I am missing out on a very important phase of our lives for my mother is now old and it is my turn to look after her, but I know she understands,” she added nostalgically.
The interesting walk down memory lane was followed by a well-sung number, Aao by Ayesha which came as a pleasant surprise. To sum it all up, the event was an emotional hour-long affair, honouring the sacred mother-daughter bond.
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