Hello Mumbai City Desk
By: Farhad Zaheer
Karma is a universal principle, deeply rooted in Hinduism, Buddhism, and other spiritual traditions, signifying the law of cause and effect. In simple terms, it teaches that every action, thought, or intention brings consequences—positive or negative—that eventually return to the person who initiated them. As the saying goes, “What you sow, so shall you reap.” While karma is central to Hinduism and Buddhism, its essence resonates in all major religions, including Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, where the idea of doing good and reaping blessings is a common thread.
From a young age, I was captivated by the stories of karma. My parents and teachers often reminded me of its profound lesson: our actions define our destiny. These early teachings stayed with me as I grew, shaping my approach to life.
In 2010, before starting university, I became deeply involved in helping those in need in Afghanistan. I distributed food rations to poor families, provided school supplies to underprivileged children, facilitated medical treatments for children with heart defects, and even arranged wheelchairs for the disabled. Whether it was supporting students in their education or offering hope to those in despair, I found immense satisfaction in serving my community.
However, life took an unexpected turn on August 15, 2021, when the Taliban recaptured Afghanistan. The new regime shattered the dreams of a progressive and democratic nation. The social, economic, and educational systems crumbled, leaving many, including myself, in a state of uncertainty.
Amid this turmoil, a beacon of hope emerged. A kind-hearted woman named Anna Mussman, who had supported my charity work, introduced me to Amnesty International. Through her efforts and the kindness of Daniel Bolson from Amnesty, my case was forwarded to the German Foreign Ministry. They approved my application, and on July 25, 2024, I arrived in Germany with my family.
This was the first significant reflection of my karma. The help I had extended to others in Afghanistan now returned to me through the generosity of these amazing individuals.
In Germany, the blessings continued. During our initial days in a Leipzig camp and later in Hardt village, Baden-Württemberg, we experienced the warmth and kindness of strangers. A volunteer, Manfred Fahrenbach, gifted me a bicycle when I requested one. As I shared this with my family, I couldn’t help but recall the days when I provided wheelchairs and bicycles to others in Afghanistan. “This is karma,” I told them.
Soon after, another volunteer, a retired teacher named Angelika Kelevinz Fischer, began teaching me German two hours in a week until my official language classes started. Her dedication touched my heart, especially one day, when she traveled five kilometers to pick me up for a class when I couldn’t find a bus. I shared with her how I used to help people in similar ways in Afghanistan. Smiling, she said, “It’s karma; you helped others, and now it’s your turn to receive.”
The most heartwarming experience came when my 8-year-old son, Khybar, fell from his bicycle and injured his chin. On that Sunday, with no transportation available, I sought help from my neighbor, Stefan Thimm. Not only did he guide me to call for assistance, but he also took my son to the hospital in his car. Watching him receive care reminded me of the countless sick children I had helped back home. Once again, karma had come full circle.
Even my language courses began sooner than expected, thanks to Ms. Angelika’s tireless efforts. While other refugees often had to wait months or even years, I was enrolled after just three months. Additionally, she played a crucial role in ensuring my children were admitted to school, helping them integrate into their new environment.
Later, we received a rented home in Sulgen, Schramberg, a place conveniently close to markets and bus stops with reliable transportation even on weekends. This, too, felt like a reward for the seeds of kindness I had sown in my homeland.
Reflecting on these experiences, I firmly believe that the good deeds we perform return to us in ways we may not immediately recognize. The kindness and support I have received in Germany are a testament to the power of karma.
As I work towards mastering the German language and pursuing a career in teaching or another meaningful profession, I am filled with gratitude for the love and generosity I have encountered. I hope to give back to the people of Germany, just as they have given so much to me.
Karma is not just a concept; it’s a way of life—a reminder that our actions today shape our destiny tomorrow. And for me, this journey has been a beautiful reflection of that truth.
Later, we received a rented home in Sulgen, Schramberg, a place conveniently close to markets and bus stops with reliable transportation even on weekends. This, too, felt like a reward for the seeds of kindness I had sown in my homeland.
Reflecting on these experiences, I firmly believe that the good deeds we perform return to us in ways we may not immediately recognize. The kindness and support I have received in Germany are a testament to the power of karma.
As I work towards mastering the German language and pursuing a career in teaching or another meaningful profession, I am filled with gratitude for the love and generosity I have encountered. I hope to give back to the people of Germany, just as they have given so much to me.
Karma is not just a concept; it’s a way of life—a reminder that our actions today shape our destiny tomorrow. And for me, this journey has been a beautiful reflection of that truth.
