By Dr. Sughra Sadaf

Ehsan Shahid is the name of a fascinating, rich, charismatic, and multifaceted personality, about whom forming a complete opinion is both interesting and difficult. He belongs to that rare group of people who skillfully conceal certain aspects of themselves behind such veils that neither superficial observation nor a casual glance is enough to see through them. One needs a deep and prolonged dialogue that compels the hidden to come forth.

I have known Ehsan Shahid for twenty-five years, and not only do I know him well, but I also deeply admire the Sufi hue of his personality. Outwardly, he appears to be a busy, business-oriented, worldly man. Yet behind this exterior resides a luminous dervish, brimming with human compassion, service to others, and heartfelt empathy. His sympathetic tone, pleasant demeanor, and welcoming attitude captivate every well-meaning visitor and win them over.

I recall that even in our first casual greeting, the rays of goodness emanating from his being tied a spiritual bond with me—one that may well remain unbroken in the next stage of life. It is a universal truth that our souls naturally recognize kindred spirits. When people with genuine and pure feelings meet, a delightful impression is created. In worldly language, we may call it chemistry, friendliness, or companionship, but its true essence is far broader and more delicate.

The boy from Mian Channu who once played in its streets—seemingly full of laughter, jokes, and playful mischief—carried within him sincerity, sensitivity, and a natural transparency that radiated light far and wide. From childhood, money was never the purpose of life for one who thought differently from the conventional measures of success. Nor was opportunism ever a part of his vocabulary in relationships. His priorities always revolved around respecting people, valuing connections, and nurturing a desire to do something meaningful for others.

Life offered him many positions and opportunities, but he chose the difficult path of humanitarian service, pledging to remain loyal to it. Even today, decades later, he appears more energetic and youthful than ever. Serving humanity has blessed him with a vitality that keeps him moving tirelessly for eighteen hours a day. His existence does not rely on artificial medicines; rather, his system is recharged by the rays of heartfelt prayers flowing from people’s eyes.

A man who prefers to sit in the back rows and avoids personal recognition has enlarged not himself but his sincerity. And it is this very sincerity that continues to win him a place in every heart. In 2018, he founded the Open Kitchen in collaboration with Muslim Hands for the needy, homeless, and destitute. This was not merely an idea of providing meals but a practical step toward restoring human dignity.

Even in a developed country like the UK, there are countless poor who cannot afford even one meal a day. Muslims here do much charitable work, but all within certain limits. Surprisingly, there is no regular system of food provision in mosques. Lavish meals prepared on occasions such as Mawlid, Muharram, Eid, and other festivities remain confined to their own communities. The Open Kitchen broke this tradition. Here, anyone—regardless of color, race, or creed—can receive two freshly cooked meals every day, 365 days a year, between 12 and 2 pm. Water, juices, salads, bread, and, according to the season, blankets, clothes, medicines, and hygiene essentials are also provided.

It is because of such efforts that he has already received the highest honors in Britain. Yet his true mission is to clear the mirror of narrow-minded thinking within his own community and faith. He has taught his people: instead of living isolated in the society you inhabit, embrace it. Employ locals in your businesses, share in their griefs and joys, remember them in their festivals—then they will not hold marches to expel you but will instead speak in your defense.

According to reports from various institutions, Open Kitchen’s food and psychological counseling have significantly reduced theft and other crimes. Countless hopeless lives have been transformed. I have met some of them, and many now return as volunteers. Today, Ehsan Shahid is working on a new project to build shelters for the homeless, where people can be cared for and guided back onto the path of life. May God grant that my brother’s wish, born of gratitude and love, soon reaches fulfillment.