Toddler steals the show at father's valima reception

A unique valima ceremony was held at a wedding hall in Gulistan-e-Johar where the child of the Japanese bride and Pakistani groom sat beaming with joy on the stage.

Three-and-half-year old Muhammad Zain Mamdani was fighting for limelight with his Japanese mother as guests bewildered the presence of the child on his dad's wedding.

The groom, Tahir Mohammad Mamdani, associated with second-hand vehicle business in Japan, had met his bride, Hanifa (earlier Hozmi Yoshino), at a restaurant, and their relationship eventually led to marriage with the consent of their families. He said the valima was delayed for more than three years.

The 'newlyweds' will travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah pilgrimage and seek divine blessings on Friday. The groom's family and friends hosted the valima.

Tahir Muhammad Mamdani, a resident of Gulshan-e-Iqbal 13C, talking to The Express Tribune said that he had moved to Japan from Pakistan nine years ago, initially for studies and later for employment.

He was now associated with the business of used cars and spare parts in Seyama City, Japan. According to Tahir, he met Hozmi Yoshino, who later converted to Islam and changed her name to Hanifa, at a restaurant. Their relationship began with a formal conversation, and they eventually got married with the mutual consent of both families.

The bride, Hanifa, explained that she had some prior knowledge of Pakistanis because she had met them during her studies and other occasions. However, after marriage, she had the chance to learn more about Pakistan. She understands Urdu to some extent and can even pronounce some words in the language. Hanifa hopes to speak Urdu fluently, just like her husband and in-laws. Additionally, she is eager to learn the Memoni language.

Hanifa expressed her sincere wish for their son, Muhammad Zain, to experience both Pakistan and Japan equally, so he can fully understand the cultures and languages of both countries.