Chapter 7-Madinah Our Love

The Chapter Of Peace

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Visiting Masjid an-Nabawi

Walking into Masjid an-Nabawi was a feeling truly indescribable. The moment their feet crossed the threshold, a wave of peace washed over them. The air felt different. Lighter, sacred, carrying a quiet hum of devotion. The temperature was perfect, with a gentle, cool breeze brushing against their bodies, making every step feel refreshing. They looked around in awe, taking in the serene architecture, the soft hum of prayers, and the calm of the people around them.

They all talked softly among themselves about how wonderful it would be if they could stay here,pray in this sacred space every day, for every prayer. It felt like a place where the soul could rest, recharge, and simply exist in devotion. The people around them seemed similarly calm, moving with a quiet reverence, adding to the sense of serenity.

After settling in, they found a comfortable spot in the Harram and performed their Maghrib and Isha prayers. It felt so much more relaxed and at ease compared to the hustle of Makkah. Even though Saji was on her period and could not join them fully for the prayers, she was present in spirit and heart. She quietly made her duas, continuing to be part of this holy journey in her own way.

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Planning for Dinner and Rawlah

Saji had been in touch with a local guide who was assisting them with their Madinah plans— a kind and reliable person named Kutty. She reached out to him again after prayers to finalize arrangements for dinner and their upcoming Rawlah visit. Kutty had previously helped them secure an appointment at Rawlah, which was scheduled for 12 p.m. Shehnaz had not gotten a chance previously for Rawlah, hence she was excited and curious this time.

Now that the Salah was complete, they contacted Kutty. He arranged to pick them up from the basement parking, directing them to use Gate 329 and walk down to Parking 8A. Soon enough, Kutty arrived, honking gently from his car. They boarded, the excitement palpable.

The conversation immediately turned to their craving for Malabar food, which had been building since they arrived in Madinah. They asked Kutty to take them to a place that offered homely, authentic food. Smiling reassuringly, he promised to take them somewhere special: a restaurant called Biriyani Spot.

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The Biriyani Spot Experience

From the outside, the restaurant looked inviting and clean. Inside, screens displayed the menu with vivid images of the dishes, and the aroma of spices filled the air. They were shown to a private cabin with curtains that separated them from the rest of the diners, giving them a sense of intimacy and calm.

A friendly waiter, Shoukath Ali, greeted them and handed over the menus. Orders were placed quickly, and soon the food began to arrive. Each dish was met with delight and appreciation. The Malabar flavors, rich, spicy and comforting immediately brought an instant sense of contentment. The Irachchi putt was Shehnaz's favorite, while the others preferred beef dishes over it. They savored every bite, letting the food warm their hearts and fill them with joy. Even Saji’s children enjoyed the meal, their excitement adding another layer of happiness to the experience.

To conclude the meal, they shared chai and a falooda, relishing the sweetness and the final notes of spice from their dinner.

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Returning to the Hotel

With their hunger sated and their hearts full, they made their way back to the hotel. The evening air of Madinah was calm and cool, carrying a sense of serenity that seemed to follow them everywhere. They reflected quietly on the day—the peace of Masjid an-Nabawi, the gentle breeze that had touched their faces, the joy of prayers, and the comfort of sharing a homely meal together.

As they settled into their rooms, a soft contentment washed over them. Saji’s children rested nearby, laughter and chatter slowly giving way to quiet. The group exchanged a few smiles, sharing unspoken gratitude for the ease and guidance that had marked the day.

It was a perfect pause, a moment to breathe and reflect, to feel the blessings of this sacred city and the gift of companionship. In the quiet of their hotel room, they allowed themselves to rest, recharge, and hold these memories close.

Tonight midnight would bring Rawlah, another sacred experience. Right now this moment was theirs to savor—the calm, the togetherness, and the simple, profound peace that Madinah so generously offered.

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