Survival and Strength Amidst Turmoil: The Resilient Journey of a Partition Refugee

Abstract

This paper explores the experiences of Parhalad Bhagat, a survivor of the 1947 Partition of India, an event which led to one of the largest forced migrations in history. Through oral testimony, this research captures Bhagat’s journey from his ancestral home in Balhar, Rawalpindi, to resettling in Haridwar, India. Bhagat’s narrative recounts harrowing events, including the traumatic separation from his family, the challenges of life in refugee camps, and the emotional toll of displacement. His story reflects the immense trauma experienced by millions during Partition, a period marked by violence, loss, and forced migration across newly drawn borders. This study underscores the importance of oral histories in preserving personal and collective memories, which are often absent from official records. By documenting individual experiences, this paper contributes to a nuanced understanding of the long-term psychological and social effects of Partition on survivors. Bhagat’s resilience in the face of profound adversity offers valuable insights into the human cost of Partition, making this research an essential addition to the study of Partition’s legacy. The study contextualizes Bhagat’s experiences within existing literature, aligning with works by Aanchal Malhotra and Anam Zakaria, whose research also highlights the personal impact of Partition through survivor narratives.