On the morning of November 24, 2024, Adnan, Hassan, and Uzair cheerfully saw their father, Romaan, off as he left home in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh—unaware that it would be their final goodbye. Later that day, the family received heartbreaking news: Romaan had been shot and killed in the violence that erupted in the city. The unrest followed a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, which had become the center of a contentious dispute over claims that it was constructed over a Hindu temple.
The violence claimed five lives, including Romaan’s. In a conversation with the Shaagird Foundation, his sons shared their deep sorrow and shock. “We have a little patience in our hearts, that’s why we are able to speak; otherwise, we were in no condition to talk,” they said. Though their faces betrayed no outward emotion, their grief was painfully palpable.
Romaan had been the family’s sole breadwinner. His sudden death not only robbed the children of their father but also stripped the family of financial security. His sons had been dedicated students—Uzair, the elder, aspired to become a doctor, while Hassan was in grade 8 at the time. The loss forced them to confront the possibility of abandoning their education due to financial hardship.
The thought of leaving school left them devastated. At the Shaagird Foundation, we believe in a world where every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to quality education. In light of this belief, we have taken responsibility for Uzair and Hassan’s education.
We are fully committed to supporting Uzair in his dream of becoming a doctor and ensuring that Hassan completes his schooling and education beyond that. Uzair is currently in grade 11, while Hassan continues his studies in grade 8. From this point forward, the Shaagird Foundation will provide the necessary educational support to both children until they are able to stand on their own.
