Making our family tree has been a life long passion. I started to pursue it earnestly in 1978. It is a never ending task, which is fortunate, because I get to enjoy it without end.
Here are some important clarifications:
The process of listing last names (family or surname) is particularly difficult in the South-Asian tradition. When clearly known to me, I have maintained the last name. When not known, I have tried to reference the identity of the person by associating it with another name, usually that of the father, mother, husband or wife. Last names of the female members of the family are especially complicated because frequently only the first (given) name exists. I have taken the liberty of using the Punjabi word "Bibi" or "BB" as part of the last name when the name is not known to me. It is a respectful and affectionate term. For men, I have used the word "Sahib". Wherever you see these words, and you happen to be aware of the actual last name (surname) of the person, please do let me know. Note: d.o means "daughter of", w.o stands for "wife of", h.o refers to "husband of" and s.o means "son of". TBD means "To Be Discovered".
I welcome all corrections and accept responsibility for all mistakes and omissions. You also have an important responsibility; Keeping me informed...I need names, dates, births, deaths, events, pictures, artifacts etc. Anything that references our common history is important.
All those who are named in our family tree belong in equal parts and all are loved equally.
Jehanzeb Syed
January 9, 2011