In Store Event with Saniya Ruqiah Ahmed

The intention of the collection is to capture companionship, family, home, and love. Hum Dum in Urdu is difficult to capture as a simple translation into English. At its simplest, it can be translated as companion, but its true essence goes much deeper: derived from Farsi, 'Ham' (ہم) means 'we' or 'us, ' and 'Dam' (دم) means 'breath.' When combined, 'Ham Dam' literally translates to the one you breathe with. These pieces strive to do and be the same. A breath of fresh air to the themes of identity as a first-generation Muslim Indian American woman navigating the turmoil and revolution to exist in completion, this collection aims to provide reflection, to bring voice to words that begin as roars and fall as tears, to bring wholeness for all our souls. This is a poetry collection to honor a legacy beyond just the author; may it bring you solace and ease.

Saniya Ruqiah Ahmed was born and raised in an global-minded home in the ever-growing town of Wichita, Kansas. As a public health advocate and aspiring family physician, she recognizes that healing and wellness comes in all forms. For Saniya, it was writing. She began her journey as a spoken word and slam poet in the realm of social justice advocacy. For nearly a decade, her art has been kept within the ears of her audience, and she is now aiming to bring her work to paper. Her poetry centers on themes like family, faith, social justice, and Muslim and Indian diaspora. Now as a medical student in the midwest, her poetry also encompasses humanity and dignity in healthcare. Her debut collection Hum Dum aims to be a companion to readers as an authentic, unapologetic, and powerful voice.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Watermark Books & Café, 4701 East Douglas Avenue, Wichita, United States