"Eidgah" is a famous short story by Munshi Premchand, one of the most prominent writers of modern Hindi-Urdu literature. It was first published in 1936 and has since become a classic of Indian literature.
The story revolves around a young boy named Hamid who lives with his grandmother in a small village. Hamids father died when he was very young, and his mother remarried and moved to another town, leaving Hamid behind. Hamids grandmother is poor, and they live a simple life, but she loves Hamid deeply and does her best to provide for him.
The story takes place on the day of Eid, a Muslim festival that is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm. Hamid is excited about the day and wakes up early to go to the mosque with his friends. However, when he asks his grandmother for money to buy sweets and toys, she tells him that they dont have any extra money and that he should be satisfied with what he already has.
Hamid is disappointed, but he goes to the mosque anyway. On the way, he sees other children with new clothes and toys, and he feels even more envious. At the mosque, the imam gives a sermon about the importance of gratitude and contentment, which Hamid takes to heart.
After the prayers, Hamid sees a flock of pigeons and remembers that his grandmother once told him that releasing a pigeon on Eid brings good luck. He decides to buy a pigeon with the little money he has and release it. He buys the pigeon and is on his way home when he sees a poor cobbler sitting by the roadside. The cobbler is hungry and cannot afford to buy food. Hamid is moved by the cobblers plight and gives him his newly bought pigeon, feeling content in his heart.
When Hamid returns home, his grandmother sees him empty-handed and asks him what happened. Hamid tells her about the pigeon and the cobbler, and his grandmother is moved to tears. She embraces Hamid and praises him for his kindness and generosity.
The story ends on a poignant note, with Hamids grandmother reflecting on the fact that she cannot give Hamid material wealth, but she can teach him the values of compassion, gratitude, and contentment. The story is a beautiful portrayal of the simple joys of life and the importance of cultivating inner happiness and contentment.
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