Zubaida Tariq, popularly known as Zubaida Apa, was a household name in Pakistan for her expertise in cooking, household remedies, and beauty tips. Born on April 4, 1945, in Hyderabad Deccan, India, she was the youngest of her 9 siblings. Her father, Ahmed Hussain Agha, was a renowned author and literary figure, and her mother, Amina Agha, was a homemaker.
Zubaida Apa completed her early education in Hyderabad and later moved to Karachi with her family. She got married at a young age and had five children. Her family faced financial difficulties, and Zubaida Apa had to take up odd jobs to support them. She worked as a receptionist at a beauty salon, and it was here that she developed an interest in beauty and skincare. She learned various tips and tricks from the salon staff and started experimenting with them at home.
Zubaida Apa’s first break came when she participated in a cooking show on PTV in the 1990s. Her simple and innovative cooking style, coupled with her charming personality, made her an instant hit with viewers. She soon became a regular on various TV channels and started hosting her show, “Handi,” which became one of the most popular cooking shows in Pakistan. Zubaida Apa’s recipes were easy to follow and often used local ingredients, making them accessible to the masses. She also shared tips on food preservation, hygiene, and storage, which proved helpful to homemakers.
Apart from cooking, Zubaida Apa was also known for her expertise in home remedies. She shared various tips for treating common ailments, such as headaches, coughs, and colds, using natural ingredients such as honey, turmeric, and ginger. She also shared tips on cleaning and organizing homes, making her a go-to person for all household problems.
Zubaida Apa’s popularity extended beyond Pakistan, and she was often invited to participate in international events and cooking shows. She also wrote several cookbooks and contributed to various magazines, further cementing her position as a culinary expert.
Zubaida Apa’s success was not limited to her professional life. She was also known for her philanthropic work and her contributions to various charitable causes. She established the Rasheed Memorial Welfare Trust, named after her late husband, which provided financial assistance to the needy. She also contributed to various educational and health initiatives, and her generosity earned her the title of “Mother Teresa of Pakistan.”
Zubaida Apa was a resilient and determined woman who faced many challenges in her life but never lost hope. She was diagnosed with cancer in 2005 but continued to work and inspire people until her last breath. She passed away on January 4, 2018, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire many.
Zubaida Apa’s life is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. She overcame financial difficulties, personal tragedies, and health issues to become a household name and a beloved figure in Pakistan. Her commitment to helping others and her willingness to share her knowledge and expertise made her a role model for generations to come. Zubaida Apa may no longer be with us, but her memory and legacy continue to live on, reminding us that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance.
