After 17-year-old Kulsum died of appendicitis, her mother Afsana Parveen was devastated. She turned her grief into something beautiful.

A mother’s tribute  On her 1,500-sq-ft rooftop in Jhansi, Afsana began growing a lush garden — in memory of her daughter.  “I wanted to fulfil her dream of having a green, peaceful space,” says Afsana.

A blooming sanctuary The terrace now bursts with flowers, fruits, and veggies — shareefa (custard apple), anjeer (fig), watermelons, and more.

Learning to grow, organically Afsana watched countless YouTube videos and read books to master organic gardening.

She makes her own compost from peels, tea leaves and eggshells — and uses oil drums and paint buckets as pots.

“I’d rush through chores to reach my plants. Some days, I planted 10 saplings at once. They were as precious as Kulsum’s memory,” says Afsana.

From grief to growth Chillies, pumpkins, ladyfingers, tomatoes — her garden now feeds the family. Trips to the market are rare. “Neighbours come take selfies with my plants. I feel I’ve fulfilled her dream,” Afsana smiles.

Healing in every leaf Birds, squirrels — and surprises — fill the garden. For Afsana, this space is not just green — it’s where love lives on.