The Inspiring Journey of Usha and Her Impact on History

The Heartbreaking Letter of Usha: A Tale of Longing for her Home in Khushab

The Inspiring Journey of Usha and Her Impact on History - A Letter from Patiala

Years ago, a woman named Usha sent a letter from Bharatgram, Patiala. Though the original paper may be lost to time, the contents were preserved through the kindness of a postmaster. This is the story of a home left behind during the partition, told through Usha’s own words.

To the Dear Postmaster

You may wonder why I am writing this to you. Your employees visit every street, including the one where my heart still resides in Khushab. I ask you to deliver my feelings to the current residents of my old home on Queen Street, at the tenth gate. Please, tell them about the house that still carries my soul.

A Message to the New Resident (My Sister)

My sister, though we have never met, I believe you are incredibly lucky to live in Usha’s house. Every morning, I wake up feeling as though I am still in Khushab, only to realize that rivers, mountains, and borders now separate us. I never thought time would change our lives so drastically.

Usha’s Wishes for the House:

  • Living Arrangements: Use the room on the right; its window opens to the kitchen, making it easier to hear the front door and manage the home.
  • For the Family: Let the middle room be for the children, and the left room for the elders.
  • The Kitchen: Please do not change anything in the kitchen. The storage network (Niyamat Khan) is very strong—it was built to last a hundred years. If you have an extra fan, place it there during the hot summers.
  • The Porch: We once had vines growing there. I remember arguing with my husband when he chopped wood on the porch tiles; I hope you have replaced the broken ones.

A Prayer for Peace

Migration is a punishment that only those who have endured it can truly understand. I pray that border conflicts end so we can be closer. If it ever happens, I would not come as a guest to stay on the roof; I would stay in my own room, and I hope you would bear with me for a few days.

With Love,
Usha

Tags: Partition Stories, Khushab History, Usha's Letter, Indo-Pak Migration Memories, Emotional Letters from History.