Petite, graceful, confident, determined, tireless, exuding an old world charm… there are many words that can be used to describe the charming Begum Hamida Habibullah, parliamentarian, educationist, social worker, and icon, who has just turned 100! Her very public birthday celebrations in her hometown Lucknow were replete with cake-cutting, confetti, speeches, songs, and loads of nostalgia. In addition to her long years, it celebrated her many achievements, contributions, and sustained efforts to enrich her community, and especially to reach out to underprivileged girls and women. Going down memory lane with her at her ancestral home in the sprawling Habibullah Estate, a landmark in the Nawabi City, a fortnight before the big day, turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Sipping tea and surrounded by her loving family and her pet dog, she looked the quintessential matriarch, truly satisfied with her life. Indeed, her manicured hands, perfectly styled hairdo, the elegant pearl jewellery, and hospitality… everything seemed so much in sync.

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