Heer Ranjha

Ranjha being the youngest of four brothers, lead an easy life, playing the flute. After the death of his father, Ranjha left home over a quarrel with his brothers. He arrived in Jhang, where he was offered a job by Chaudhary, Heer’s father. He spent his days herding cattle and tending the land, but his nights were spent dreaming of the mystery woman in the house, Heer. Heer became mesmerised by the way Ranjha played his flute and soon fell in love with him. They met each other secretly for many years until they were caught by Heer's uncle, Kaido, and mother, Malki. Despite their undying love for eachother, Heer was forced to marry another man, Saida.

With a heavy heart, Ranjha dragged his feet through the countryside for many moons and in his mourning encountered a Jogi. Desperate to escape the pain and heartache, he embarked on a spiritual journey, becoming a Jogi himself renouncing the material world. Reciting the name of the Lord he wandered all over Panjab and eventually stumbled upon the village where Heer was now living as a married woman.

Heer tried to elope with Ranjha with the help of Saida’s sister, but they were caught and Ranjha was sentenced to death. On the advise of the elders, Saida was ordered to divorce Heer so she could marry her one true love. The two hastily returned to Heer’s village, where her parents blessed their marriage.

After days of celebration and planning their life together, the day of the wedding finally came. The two became married in the name of God and prepared to leave town to live their ‘happy ever after’. Before sending her off as a new bride, Heer’s Uncle, Kaido, invited her for a parting meal. She fell to the ground, the pearls on her necklace scattering across the marble floor. She was poisoned. By the time Ranjha rushed to Heer it was too late. He ate the remaining poisoned laddu and died by her side. Some would say they still got to live their happily ever after…