When a French photographer was humbled by Abdul Sattar Edhi

Zérah's photographs give us a deep insight into the lives of those he touched


Multimedia Desk July 19, 2016

French photographer, Oriane Zérah, spent a lot of time in Pakistan. Between the end of 2015 to 2016, she came to know about the saint we all lost a few weeks ago -- Abdul Sattar Edhi.

Zerah began reporting on Edhi's charity foundation in an attempt to show the hard work that into Edhi's lifelong struggle. "I wanted the French people to know a bit more about the incredible man he was."

In an ode to Edhi's contributions to society, we look at the beautiful photographs captured by Zérah. The pictures give us a deep insight into the lives of those Edhi touched and the ways in which he served humanity like no other.

Photographer's note:

Abdul Sattar Edhi passed away. I'm not sure what might be the definition of a hero, but I can say that in my eyes he was a hero. Humanist, philanthropist, and a man with a big enough heart to take care of all those who are in need without distinction of religion, race or culture. 

"NO RELIGION IS HIGHER THAN HUMANITY" was the key tenet of Edhi, and those working with him. They all repeat this phrase to me when I was visiting the different centers of the foundation 

In a country that is defined by its religious identity, in which the fundamentalists are trying to impose their vision, Edhi never gave up. His dream was to make Pakistan a model of social revolution.

I felt impressed when I met him. Impressed, humble, and respectful.

I just told him that if there were more people like him in the world, this planet would be a better place to live. Unfortunately, today the world has lost one of its precious one ... May his spirit remain!

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

PHOTO: ORIANE ZÈRAH

 

COMMENTS (3)

scotchpak | 7 years ago | Reply Found me a rightly guided one. Now my list has two - Muhammad Ali (boxer)-A.Sarrar Edhi
Syed Ali Shah | 7 years ago | Reply Actions speak louder than words.
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