Lahori Novels
The Weight of Expectations
Salar, a young man burdened by the weight of his family’s expectations, sat on the veranda, the glow of his laptop screen illuminating his tense face. His family, the esteemed and influential Khan family, had always placed a premium on tradition and societal norms. Marriage, for Salar, was not a matter of personal choice but a strategic alliance to further solidify the family’s standing.
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His father, Agha John, a man of strong opinions and unwavering beliefs, had already begun the delicate dance of matchmaking. Salar, however, felt a growing sense of unease. He yearned for a love match, a connection forged on mutual respect and affection, not on the intricate web of social and familial obligations.
Naima Begum, his mother, a woman of quiet strength and unwavering love, entered the veranda with a tray laden with fragrant kebabs and steaming hot tea. The aroma of the food filled the air, a comforting counterpoint to the tension that lingered between Salar and his father.
“Yes, son, tell me now, what have you thought about marriage?” Agha John inquired, a teasing glint in his eyes.
Salar, feeling the weight of his father’s gaze, took a deep breath. “Agha John, as you and mother see fit,” he replied, his voice devoid of conviction.
Agha John chuckled, a low rumble that belied his serious demeanor. “Are you obedient? This thing is not being digested.”
Salar, initially taken aback by his father’s bluntness, found himself laughing. The tension in the air dissipated, replaced by a shared moment of levity.
Later that evening, as Salar lay awake in his room, the events of the day replayed in his mind. He thought of the families he had met, the polite conversations, the veiled assessments, and the unspoken expectations. He felt a growing sense of disillusionment. Was this truly the life he wanted? A life dictated by societal norms and familial obligations, a life where his own happiness was secondary to the preservation of tradition?
The following day, Salar decided to take matters into his own hands. He sought out his childhood friend, Zara, a vibrant and independent woman who challenged societal norms with her unconventional career choices. He poured his heart out to her, confessing his anxieties and frustrations.
Zara, a perceptive and empathetic friend, listened patiently, offering words of encouragement and support. “Salar,” she said, “you cannot let others dictate your happiness. You deserve to find someone who loves you for who you are, someone who shares your dreams and aspirations.”
Zara’s words resonated deeply with Salar. He realized that he had to break free from the shackles of expectation. He needed to find a partner who would not only complement his family but also enrich his own life.
He began to explore his own interests, pursuing his passion for photography and volunteering at a local animal shelter. He attended social events, not with the intention of finding a suitable bride, but with the genuine desire to connect with people who shared his interests.
His parents, initially bewildered by his newfound independence, gradually began to understand. They saw the change in him, the newfound confidence and the genuine happiness that radiated from within. They realized that their son was not rebelling against them but rather, asserting his own identity.
One evening, at a local art exhibition, Salar met Anika, a talented artist with a free spirit. They were drawn to each other immediately, their conversation flowing effortlessly. They discovered a shared love for art, music, and travel.
Over the following weeks, their connection deepened. They spent hours exploring the city, engaging in lively debates, and sharing their dreams and aspirations. Anika, unlike the women his parents had introduced him to, appreciated his individuality and encouraged him to pursue his passions.
When Salar finally introduced Anika to his parents, their initial apprehension soon melted away. They were charmed by Anika’s warmth and impressed by her accomplishments. They saw in her not just a daughter-in-law but a kindred spirit, a woman who would bring joy and laughter into their lives.
Salar and Anika’s wedding was a joyous occasion, a celebration of love and individuality. It was a testament to the fact that true happiness lies not in adhering to societal norms but in embracing one’s own path, in finding a partner who shares your dreams and supports your aspirations.
Salar had finally found his own happiness, not by conforming to expectations but by breaking free from their constraints. He had learned that true love, like a rare and precious flower, blossoms when nurtured with honesty, respect, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
