Central Delhi businesswoman Yasmeen Shah shares journey of independence
During an interview at her apartment in Central Delhi, local businesswoman and single mother Yasmeen Shah shared her journey of overcoming grief to build financial independence following the tragic death of her husband, Nazir, more than 25 years ago. After rejecting financial assistance from her family, Shah chose to start her own business to support her two children.
Shah’s husband, Nazir, passed away from lung fibrosis at the age of 40. At the time of his death, Shah was 30 years old and faced the daunting task of raising their two children—a two-year-old daughter and a 14-year-old son. She recalled that she and Nazir had been childhood sweethearts before their marriage, describing him as a very tall and handsome man whom people would frequently turn to look at.
Following the tragedy, Shah's brother offered to provide her with monthly financial support to take care of her. While Shah recognized the kindness of the gesture, she explained that the offer hit her like a bullet, prompting her to take immediate charge of her own life rather than relying on family aid.
Determined to be self-reliant, Shah launched a business selling Kashmiri shawls and carpets. Over the years, her entrepreneurial efforts expanded, and she now also operates two guest houses located in Kashmir.
Though Shah expressed a deep desire to live in Kashmir, she continues to reside in Delhi to remain close to her children, who are now adults. She described her role over the last two decades as constantly hovering over them to ensure their well-being, noting that she dedicated her time entirely to their happiness, which left little room for her own.
Shah also shared her personal coping mechanisms and values. When feeling sad, she drives aimlessly along the roads playing sad ghazals to help her process her emotions. She emphasized that she strongly dislikes anyone feeling pity for her and values friends who do not show artificial love. Looking to the future, Shah expressed that she wishes to pass away only after her daughter fully settles down and can live without her.
In addition to managing her business, Shah spends her time in her book-filled Central Delhi residence cooking Kashmiri cuisine, singing old Hindi film songs, and caring for her elderly Persian cat, Zoonie.
