FUCHSIA pays tribute to Imran Arif and Amna Arif, who tragically lost their lives in a road accident.
For generations, society has believed that sons can secure a family’s future, often overlooking the critical contributions of daughters. Traditionally expected to focus on domestic duties, daughters were seen as temporary members of the family, destined to marry and move away. However, as societal norms evolve, daughters are increasingly stepping into roles as breadwinners and decision-makers, challenging the outdated notion that only sons can ensure family prosperity. Despite these advancements, many daughters still face stigmas that undermine their worth, particularly in education, where the belief persists that investing in their future is less important than in their male counterparts. This mindset not only limits daughters’ potential but also deprives families of the financial and emotional support they could provide.
A daughter’s success is deeply tied to the support she receives from her parents, and in Pakistani society, a father’s support can help flip the formula, adding miles to what children can achieve.
Today, we pay tribute to a father-daughter duo who not only defied norms and pushed boundaries but also became an overnight inspiration, albeit tragically, in their death, for all the fathers and daughters out there – Imran Arif and Amna Arif!
Who Were Imran Arif & Amna Arif?
Imran Arif was a 60-year-old “pappar” seller, and a resident of Karachi, Pakistan. From humble beginnings, arose a lofty dream—to see his children become successful individuals who could stand tall in today’s society, be financially independent, and lead sustainable, successful lives.
Imran Arif had two daughters and one son. His elder daughter is married, and his second daughter, Amna Arif, was his youngest and greatest support. Both of them were the breadwinners of the family. Imran Arif used to sell snacks on his bicycle that carried a cart alongside. Because he couldn’t afford the fare for public transport, he used to drop his daughter at work, pick her up afterwards, and then take her to university in the evening—all with a proud smile, knowing his efforts were making a difference.
Amidst the overwhelming financial and societal pressures, he stood tall by his daughter, ensuring her dreams were not left behind.
Amna Arif, a 22-year-old ambitious young girl, was determined to work hard and achieve something to fulfill her father’s dream. She was an MBA student at Iqra University, in her last semester, working on her thesis, which revolved around AI, the future of technology.
As per reports, Amna was employed at Systems Ltd., an IT Services and IT Consulting company, in the morning 9-5 shift as a trainee consultant. She supported her father in managing the household finances. She was about to graduate in a few months and was on the verge of getting a promotion after earning her degree. The promotion would have increased her salary to PKR 100K—a sum that might not seem substantial to some but would have made a significant difference for a middle-class family.
As her father supported her in pursuing her dreams, Amna was equally committed. She contributed to her studies and saved money from her job to pay her semester fees so that her father could manage otjer household expenses without worrying about her education.
It is said that just a few days ago, Amna used her savings to have her home painted, wanting to contribute something towards the maintenance and care of the family home.
Just as Amna was finally able to shoulder the responsibility and share a sigh of relief as she neared the finish line for her MBA degree, both father-daughter lost their lives in a devastating road accident on Karsaz road Karachi, a few days ago.
It is indeed unfortunate that their story has reached so many more people after their tragic demise, bringing a source of inspiration and hope – a call to all daughters who have dreams and all fathers who are facing financial and societal pressures that despite all the obstacles they face, they must soldier on.
All you need to know is that you can do it too!
A salute to souls like Imran Arif and Amna Arif. May their souls rest in peace.
Sources: YT Asad Toor Uncensored and Dawn.
