That is terribly sad. Your friend gave far too much importance to the ignorance of his father.

Yes we should respect our parents but not value their views or their actions when they are misguided /tyrannical.

At least you tried to be there for for your friend and that should be a comfort for you, I hope.

May I ask how familiar you are with Urdu and Hindi literacy?

As I grew up in the UK there were no classes to attend, but I'm enjoying learning now via the you tube treasury.