Mehak Malik
Pulwama: Afeeqa Ali, a social activist from Pulwama in south Kashmir, has initiated a free langar (community kitchen) at the district hospital during the holy month of Ramadan.
With over 20 years of experience in social work, her journey began when she was inspired by an organisation in Jammu.
“I saw Mother Teresa running a unit in Jammu. I said, if they can do it, why can’t we do it?” she recalled. Her dedication to service has since spanned various crises, including the 2014 floods and the COVID-19 pandemic, where she provided food to 600 migrant laborers daily.
“I was cooking food for them. My office was there. I used to take it to them in a car and distribute it,” she said.
The idea for the langar at the district hospital came from her desire to support those in need. Located behind the ATM near the hospital entrance, the food stall serves meals to patients, attendants, and visitors.
“Some people bring food from home. There is no need. They can eat here too. They will get the same food as at home,” Afeeqa explained.
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“Some people bring food from home. There is no need. They can eat here too. They will get the same food as at home,” Afeeqa explained.
The initiative has garnered significant support from the local community. “People come and say, we will also wash the utensils. We will clean the vegetables. Women come to help us. They say, tell us what to do,” she added.
Her team, though small at the langar, is part of a larger network of volunteers. “Our team is very big. I have kept 6-7 people here. They are doing a good job,” she said. Organizations like Rahi Insaniyat have also contributed by sending volunteers.
“They drop them here in the evening. They themselves send boys here. They do their service,” she added.
Reflecting on the role of women in society, Afeeqa stressed the importance of self-belief and consistency. “A woman has the capacity. She has the courage. But if a woman does not decide, she can bring a revolution. We do not know our strength,” she said.
She said that setting a goal and staying consistent is key to achieving success.
“If I lose my consistency, then there will be a disaster. That is why it is very important to be consistent. Consistency is a must in every job.”
