TFD Report
KARACHI: The Consul General of Türkiye in Karachi, Cemal Sangu, paid an emotional farewell visit in heavily rainy weather to Aaghosh Old Age Home, reaffirming his deep connection with the shelter that has become a beacon of hope for destitute elderly women. The visit marked the third time during his tenure that he spent time with the senior mothers and sisters at the home, says a Press release.
On this occasion, Cemal Sangu was accompanied by Professor Khalil Toukar, a distinguished scholar of Urdu Language and Literature from Istanbul University, currently serving in Pakistan. Prof. Toukar had especially wished to join the Consul General to witness firsthand the humanitarian work being carried out at Aaghosh.
Speaking to the residents, the Consul General expressed his admiration and affection: “It is truly a matter of great happiness, privilege, and heartfelt delight for me to be here once again at Aaghosh Old Age Home, in the company of my senior mothers and sisters. Without visiting them, I always feel that my journey remains incomplete. This place, and the people here, are connected deeply to my heart, and this bond will remain with me throughout my life.”
He emphasized the importance of supporting old age homes and uplifting elderly citizens, describing them as “the treasures of our societies.” Recalling his experiences, he noted that visiting Aaghosh always made him feel “as though I am at home,” praising the love, respect, and warmth he consistently received.
In a touching exchange, one of the mothers asked him why he was leaving Pakistan. The Consul General replied with sincerity: “I truly love Pakistan and its people, but there is always an end to happy days.” Her heartfelt response – “We really liked your visit” – left him visibly moved.
During the visit, he also acknowledged the tireless efforts of Shagufta Saba, President of Aaghosh Home Trust, whose commitment over two decades has provided shelter, care, and dignity to countless abandoned and shelterless women. He lauded her compassion and leadership, calling her work “a model of service to humanity.”
Shagufta Saba also shared her vision for the future of Aaghosh, expressing her desire to establish a specialized orphanage for physically and mentally challenged children, as well as infants abandoned due to social exploitation and harassment. “Our dream is to expand this mission of care, so no vulnerable soul is left without support,” she said.
The farewell visit, filled with emotional exchanges and words of gratitude, underscored the special bond Cemal Sangu has developed with Aaghosh during his tenure in Karachi. His closing message to the mothers and sisters was simple yet profound:
“Thank you for your love. Your warmth and prayers will remain among my most cherished memories of Pakistan.”
Through this heartfelt visit, the Turkish Consul General not only reaffirmed his enduring bond with Aaghosh Home but also highlighted the broader cultural and diplomatic ties between Türkiye and Pakistan, grounded in the shared values of compassion, respect, and service to humanity.
