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Firhad Hakim's Daughter Returns from Saudi Arabia, Shares Stranded Indians' Plight

Priyadarshini Hakim, daughter of West Bengal Minister Firhad Hakim, has returned to Kolkata after performing Umrah in Saudi Arabia. She expressed relief at being home but deep concern for fellow Indians and friends from Kolkata and Dubai who remain stranded, unable to secure return flights. Her trip, planned during Ramadan, was initially peaceful before news of the regional conflict emerged. The experience was emotionally taxing, especially for her seven-year-old daughter who was frightened by reports of violence.

Key Points: Indian Stranded in West Asia Crisis: Hakim's Daughter Returns

  • Safe return from Umrah
  • Concern for stranded Indians
  • Tickets sold out quickly
  • Child's fear over war news
  • Family anxiety during pilgrimage
2 min read

Back from Saudi Arabia, Firhad Hakim's daughter speaks of Indians stranded amid West Asia crisis

Priyadarshini Hakim, daughter of Kolkata Mayor, returns from Umrah, expresses relief and concern for Indians still stranded amid West Asia conflict.

"Many people are still stranded there... they are also trying to return. - Priyadarshini Hakim"

Kolkata, March 4

Priyadarshini Hakim, daughter of West Bengal Minister and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim, returned here from Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah, saying it was a relief to be back home even as many Indians remain stranded in the region amid the ongoing West Asia crisis.

Speaking to IANS, she said: "It feels good to be back. Our flight arrived early in the morning. My two sisters and my father were observing Roza. Despite observing Roza, they came early in the morning to receive us."

She expressed concern for others who have not been able to return yet.

"Many people are still stranded there. I met two friends from Kolkata while I was there. When I managed to get a ticket, I immediately informed them, but by the time they tried to book, the tickets were already sold out. I also have several friends in Dubai who are stuck. I have been in touch with them, and they are also trying to return," she said.

Priyadarshini said the family had travelled to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah during the holy month of Ramadan.

"We had gone to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. Performing Umrah during Ramadan holds special significance. The children also had a five-day holiday, so we planned the trip. When we reached there, it was peaceful. Then we came to know that the war had started," she said.

She added that although they were concerned, they tried to remain calm.

"We were not very scared. When you go on a religious pilgrimage of any faith, you surrender yourself in a way to a higher power -- God. Of course, our family members back home were worried," she said.

Recalling her daughter's reaction to reports of violence, she said the situation had a deep emotional impact on the child.

"My daughter does not understand anything about war. She was asking her father what war is. When she saw on Instagram that 165 girls were killed in an attack in Iran, she became very scared. My daughter herself is just seven years old. After seeing the graves, she was terrified and kept asking me, 'Mama, can someone really kill others like this?'"

She said she has been trying to reassure her child while staying in touch with friends and acquaintances still awaiting flights back to India.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The part about her daughter's fear is heartbreaking. No child should have to ask those questions. It's a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict, far away from the politics. Wishing strength to all the families waiting for their loved ones to return.
P
Priya S
Performing Umrah during Ramadan is such a blessed journey. It's sad that it was overshadowed by this crisis. Her family coming to receive her while observing Roza shows beautiful dedication. My prayers are with all the Indians still stranded. Inshallah, they will return home soon.
R
Rohit P
With all due respect, while her concern is genuine, it's easier for someone with connections to get a ticket and come back. What about the thousands of common Indians without such access? The real story is the struggle of those friends she mentioned who couldn't book in time.
V
Vikram M
The Gulf region has millions of our brothers and sisters working hard. During such times, Air India and other airlines should operate special flights at subsidized rates. This is not the first crisis; we should be better prepared by now.
K
Kavya N
Her point about surrendering to a higher power during a pilgrimage is so true. Faith gives strength in scary situations. Hope the situation de-escalates and everyone can travel safely. 🙏

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