Lahori Novels
Us Rah Par by Mohammad Ali Shah – A Journey of Dreams, Love, and Secrets
“Us Rah Par” is a beautifully crafted Urdu novel written by Mohammad Ali Shah that explores the intricate threads of love, ambition, family expectations, and hidden truths. Set against the contrasting backdrops of the bustling capital city of Islamabad and the peaceful rural setting of Manjpur, the story takes readers through an emotional rollercoaster with deeply human characters and a gripping narrative.
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The Protagonist: Ahmed – A Dreamer Caged by Discipline
At the heart of the story is Ahmed, the only son of Colonel Anjum, a retired army officer known for his discipline, rigidity, and strong principles. Raised in a household governed by military-like order, Ahmed yearns for freedom and joy—two things that seem foreign in his stern environment. While his father believes in a life of service and responsibility, Ahmed is drawn towards the world of art, performance, and acting.
He harbors a secret dream of becoming an actor, a desire he hides under layers of obedience and fear. Ahmed’s struggle is not just with his father’s rules, but also with his own identity. He is torn between becoming the man his father wants him to be, and the artist he feels he is destined to become.
Colonel Anjum – The Man Behind the Mask
Colonel Anjum is portrayed as a strict disciplinarian, but beneath his tough exterior lies a man haunted by his past. His inability to express emotions, his strictness, and his suppression of joy all point to deeper unresolved traumas. Ahmed grows up believing that his father’s stern nature is simply who he is, until one night changes everything.
The Revelation – Secrets of the Past
Ahmed’s life takes a sudden turn when one night, his mother decides to break her silence and reveal the truth behind Colonel Anjum’s sorrowful nature. Along with his close friend Rohail, Ahmed listens as his mother recounts a painful chapter of the colonel’s life—one that has cast a long shadow over their family.
The story she tells is one of loss, regret, and sacrifice. It becomes clear that Colonel Anjum’s aversion to joy and creativity is rooted in a tragic event that took place years ago. This revelation not only softens Ahmed’s view of his father but also ignites a new sense of purpose in him.
The Journey to Manjpur – A New Chapter Begins
As the emotional burden of the past starts to unravel, Ahmed finds himself drawn to Manjpur, a serene village that offers peace and simplicity—everything Islamabad doesn’t. Here, away from the noise and pressure of his previous life, Ahmed begins to discover a new version of himself.
It is in Manjpur where he meets Zoya, a girl whose perspective on life is both refreshing and inspiring. Unlike Ahmed, Zoya has always known who she is and what she wants. She is deeply rooted in her culture yet open-minded, grounded yet full of dreams.
Their meeting is not a cinematic twist of fate, but a slow, meaningful connection built on shared experiences, emotional healing, and the desire to build a future outside of societal expectations.
Love Blossoms Amid Contrasts
Ahmed and Zoya’s love story is anything but conventional. While Ahmed is trying to break free from the shackles of his disciplined upbringing, Zoya represents the balance between tradition and independence. Their love blossoms slowly as they learn to support each other’s dreams.
However, love is never simple in a world where social norms, family reputations, and personal ambitions often collide. The couple faces resistance—not just from the outside world, but also from the conflicts within themselves.
Islamabad vs. Manjpur – A Tale of Two Worlds
The novel brilliantly contrasts the two settings. Islamabad is depicted as a city of expectations, pressure, and masks, where people live to meet societal standards rather than their own desires. In contrast, Manjpur is portrayed as a place of purity, inner peace, and emotional honesty.
This geographical symbolism mirrors Ahmed’s internal conflict. As he travels between the two places, he is also navigating between two versions of himself—the obedient son and the passionate dreamer.
A Conflict of Generations
“Us Rah Par” also explores the generational gap between parents and children. Colonel Anjum’s life was built on duty and sacrifice, shaped by the military and national service. In contrast, Ahmed’s world revolves around personal happiness, creativity, and emotional freedom.
This generational clash is portrayed not as a simple rebellion, but as a heartfelt plea for understanding. The novel shows that while values may differ across generations, love and mutual respect can bridge any gap.
Redemption and Reconciliation
As the story unfolds, Ahmed’s journey becomes more than just a pursuit of love or career—it becomes a mission to reconcile with his past, understand his family, and create a new legacy. With the support of Zoya, Rohail, and his mother, Ahmed begins to heal not just himself, but also his father.
In a powerful turn of events, Colonel Anjum eventually begins to see the world through Ahmed’s eyes. He starts to question the beliefs that governed his life and slowly accepts that joy, art, and emotions are not weaknesses—but strengths.
Conclusion – Walking the Path of Dreams
“Us Rah Par” ends on a hopeful note, with Ahmed finally stepping into the life he always wanted. His relationship with his father evolves from conflict to compassion. Zoya stands beside him as a partner in love and life, and Manjpur becomes a symbol of the dreams that once seemed impossible.
Mohammad Ali Shah masterfully weaves a story that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. The novel resonates with anyone who has ever felt torn between family expectations and personal ambitions. It encourages readers to follow their hearts, to confront their pasts, and to never give up on the paths they believe in—no matter how difficult they may seem.
“Us Rah Par” is more than a love story. It is a tale of courage, emotional growth, and the transformative power of truth. It reminds us that every journey has a destination—even if the road is long and uncertain.
