‘To your health and glory,’ repeated the officers in unison and raised their glasses. A round of applause from the women followed, who had remained seated. Partially hidden, a shy Bibi closed her eyes. Her shapely reddish-maroon lips moved ever so softly, ‘Thank you, Lord,’ she whispered to herself. ‘I wish you were here, dear Mother, I miss you.’

* * *

The very next day, General Virk was to leave for Amritsar. Bibi escorted him to the Palam airport and walked right up to the ladder of the military aircraft. Before boarding, Virk turned towards her and looked into her eyes. She stood ramrod straight and looked back confidently. He was surprised to find no signs of worry or fear on her face. Her firm faith in the Almighty had always surprised him. Yet watching her see him off with a brave face astounded him.

Stepping a bit closer, he said, ‘Is there something I can get for you? It is quite likely that we might go right up to Tadali. We are quite keen to end these skirmishes once and for all.’

Bibi’s face became serious instantly. She stepped closer, and in full view of the officers present, who were watching her closely, she held her husband’s hands. Placing her forehead on his chest, she said, ‘Please do what you must. That’s your duty. But, if possible, please avoid bombarding my parents’ home. Their souls might get hurt.’

General Virk was struck by her simple but deep words. The officers too noticed the change on their general’s face but couldn’t make out what was happening. Recovering quickly and maintaining his composure, Virk said, ‘Their house might be in the enemy territory, Amrit, but it is still the civilian area. And unlike the Pakistanis, we in the Indian Army do our best to avoid attacks on civilians.’

Virk boarded the flight without turning and looking back at Bibi. Minutes later, the C-119 Packet aircraft taxied towards the airstrip. Bibi stood at the same spot, her back towards the officers waving at the departing aircraft, her eyes closed, but her lips moving ever so gently. She was communicating with her lord.

A month later, Bibi learnt that Allah Rakha had passed away. She insisted on going there and being with her adopted family. However, most of the sectors closer to the Pakistani borders in Kashmir were under curfew due to continuous shelling. ‘It isn’t safe, Amrit,’ Virk tried to argue with her on the hotline. But Bibi remained adamant. With little choice, Virk made the necessary arrangements, and Bibi arrived in Kashmir much to the pleasant surprise of the villagers.