Column by Saba Mahjoor | Phuphee and the chilli cakes
A personal column reflects on a memory of the author's relative, Phuphee, and her reaction to the plight of a sick village woman named Sameena. The narrative explores themes of empathy and the social pressures faced by women in traditional settings.
Why it matters
It provides a cultural perspective on social dynamics and caregiving within a specific community context.
Many years ago, on a mild May afternoon, I walked towards Phuphee’s kitchen expecting her usual warm welcome. But on that particular day, I saw her outside standing over a k anz (a large mortar made of rock) with a m uhul (a long pestle made from wood) in her hand, pounding away as if her life depended on it.
This is a personal essay/column and does not contain political or social bias.
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