A wave of contentment was swept over the family of Umar as the ribbon of their house inauguration ceremony was cut on 8th February 2025 in Ghatmika, Rajasthan. The ceremony was attended by 150 people belonging to Ghatmika. Umar dreamed of building a house for his family but was lynched to death by cow vigilantes before he could. Miles2Smile, with the help of donors, constructed it for the family and fulfilled Umar’s dream. Conducting an inauguration ceremony, the organization aimed to chip in happiness and dignity in their lives.
The ceremony flagged off with the speech of Aasif Mujtaba, Founder & Director, Miles2Smile. Starting his speech with profound poetry, Mujtaba emphasized how hatred stripped the Umar family of their happiness, but love ultimately restored it with even greater intensity.
“It was impossible for us to bring Umar back, but constructing his house was possible, and we did it.” Mujtaba said, and echoes of clapping resonated in the ground of Umar’s house.
On moving further, Mujtaba added, “Every brick of this house, every stone of its roof, and every inch of its ground stands as a testament that hatred can break our homes but not our courage or our determination,” a sense of unity engulfed the audience while listening to these words.
Highlighting the importance of education, Mujtaba promised to establish a library in the name of Junaid, another individual who was lynched to death by cow vigilantes in year 2023. The aim of the library is to reinforce knowledge in Ghatmika, an area where education seems far-fetched for many residents.
“In the coming days, we will establish a library in Junaid’s name because education is the most powerful weapon. If we sacrifice everything for our children’s education, we will raise a generation that stands against injustice.” Mujtaba said.
Concluding his speech, Mujtaba invited the widows of Umar and Junaid to perform the ribbon-cutting ceremony and formally inaugurate the house. A loud round of applause erupted as the ribbon was cut.
“I am very happy that my Umar’s house has been built today. Umar had a dream, and he died before achieving it, but I am glad the dream is true now. Today, we have a roof over our heads thanks to Miles2Smile. I pray that Aasif Bhai always remains happy and his organization flourishes.” Kurshidan, the widow of Umar, said after cutting the ribbon.
“I am grateful that I was invited to cut the ribbon and inaugurate the house. May Allah bless Aasif bhai and his team for their love and affection.” Sajida, the widow of Junaid, said after cutting the ribbon. Continuing the ceremony, the organization honored Umar’s wife, Kurshidan; Umar’s son, Maqsood; Umar’s brother, Ilyas; and Junaid’s wife, Sajida, with a shawl.
“I am very happy that my brother’s house has been built. And I am also happy that Miles2Smile has established a shop for Sajida. May Allah keep both families happy, and may Allah protect Miles2Smile from all evil.” Ilyas, brother of Miles2Smile, said.
“This event has highlighted that there are people who work for humanity. Not everyone hates us. The team of Miles2Smile has proven that unconditional love still exists in the world.” Sayeedan, an old lady from the audience, said.
“The house looks so beautiful, and the happiness on Kurshidan’s face seems unmatchable.” Another woman, Harooh added.
“We all are very happy that Umar’s family has a roof over their house now. We are also happy that Sajida has a source of livelihood. May Allah bless both the families.“ Rizwana, Umar’s neighbor, said.
The ceremony concluded with the distribution of the refreshment box to the audience and the volunteers of the Miles2Smile.
“The best part of the event for us was the distribution of the refreshment box,” a group of kids happily said.
About Miles2Smile:Established nearly five years ago, the Miles2Smile Foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact on marginalized communities in India. From the crisis response during the pandemic to ongoing efforts in education and advocacy, the foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
For more information about the Miles2Smile Foundation, its impactful campaigns, initiatives, and uplifting stories, please visit the website.
.
