Tawaf e Ishq by Sumaira Hameed

“Tawaf e Ishq,” a captivating Urdu novel by Sumaira Hameed, unravels a poignant narrative that revolves around three extraordinary women—Azeeza, Amina, and Jannat. Their journey is a testament to transformation, faith, patience, and a profound love for Allah. The novel navigates through the labyrinth of their past lives as prostitutes, their encounter with a wise Darwaish (mystic), and their ultimate devotion to a life centered around Allah.

Azeeza, Amina, and Jannat, once ensnared by the shadows of their past, find solace and redemption through the teachings of a Darwaish. The mystic becomes a guiding light, leading them toward the path of righteousness and spirituality. The trio, now transformed into devout Muslims, choose to forsake their previous lives and embark on a journey to live with the Darwaish, dedicating themselves entirely to Allah.

As the sacred time of Hajj approaches, the three women express an ardent desire to undertake this pilgrimage, a journey that holds the promise of spiritual rejuvenation and a chance to witness the Kaaba—the revered House of Allah. Their hearts filled with longing, they approach the Darwaish, beseeching him to facilitate their pilgrimage to Mecca.

Initially hesitant, the Darwaish, driven by a deep sense of compassion, takes it upon himself to make their dream a reality. In pursuit of assistance, he turns to his friend Ameer.ul.Hajj, Ibn.e.Mussa. However, upon learning about the women’s tumultuous past as prostitutes, Ameer.ul.Hajj hesitates and initially refuses to include them in the Hajj journey.

The societal stigma attached to their past threatens to thwart their aspirations, even in the face of their newfound faith and transformation. However, the Darwaish, with unwavering determination and conviction, advocate on behalf of Azeeza, Amina, and Jannat. Through his persuasive efforts, he manages to convince Ameer.ul.Hajj to reconsider his decision.

Ibn.e.Mussa, moved by the Darwaish’s plea and recognizing the genuine transformation in the women, ultimately agrees to include them in the pilgrimage. This pivotal moment marks not only a triumph over societal prejudices but also a testament to the transformative power of faith and the resilience of those who seek redemption.

The journey to Hajj becomes a symbolic pilgrimage of the soul for Azeeza, Amina, and Jannat. It is a sacred odyssey where they seek forgiveness, purification, and divine proximity. The physical pilgrimage to the Kaaba mirrors their spiritual journey, as they navigate the challenges, trials, and tests of faith.

Amidst the sea of pilgrims, the three women find themselves enveloped in a profound sense of unity and equality that transcends their past. The pilgrimage becomes a cathartic experience, cleansing them of their sins and strengthening their connection with Allah.

As they circumambulate the Kaaba in a ritual known as Tawaf, the novel’s title takes on a deeper meaning—Tawaf-e-Ishq, the circumambulation of love. It signifies not only the physical act of encircling the sacred structure but also the spiritual journey of embracing divine love and seeking Allah’s mercy.

Through the trials and tribulations of the Hajj pilgrimage, Azeeza, Amina, and Jannat forge an unbreakable bond with each other and with Allah. The novel unfolds as a testament to the transformative power of faith, the capacity for redemption, and the universality of love that transcends societal judgments.

In conclusion, “Tawaf-e-Ishq” by Sumaira Hameed is not merely a tale of three women seeking forgiveness and redemption; it is a profound exploration of the human spirit’s resilience, the transformative power of faith, and the boundless mercy of Allah. The pilgrimage to the Kaaba becomes a metaphorical journey of the soul, where the characters confront their past, overcome societal prejudices, and emerge purified, united by a love that knows no bounds. The novel serves as a poignant reminder that, in the eyes of Allah, no one is beyond redemption, and the path to righteousness is open to all who seek it with sincerity and devotion.”