Behind the Viral Moment: A Heart-to-Heart with the Birthday Girl’s Father
A recent viral video capturing a tender moment between a Lebanese father, Hicham Abi Haidar, and his daughter Hawraa has taken social media by storm. In the video, Hicham sings “Happy Birthday” to his daughter at Beirut Bay.
What follows is a touching scene as Hawraa, overwhelmed with emotions, breaks down in tears and embraces her father tightly, surrounded by applauses and heartfelt wishes from onlookers.
We had the chance to speak to the father in the spotlight of this heartwarming video. Here’s what he shared with us:
Can you tell us about the background of that special birthday celebration? What made you celebrate at a restaurant?
Last year, on the 21st of August, it was my birthday. Hawraa approached me with a sweet request, saying, “Pap, I want you to give me some money. I want to plan your birthday, but I don’t want you to know anything about it, and I don’t want your help. I want to choose everything myself.”
She took charge and surprised me at a restaurant in Zeitouna Bay. So, this year, I decided to reciprocate that love. I took her to the same restaurant, reliving those memories and creating new ones on her birthday in a place filled with meaning for us.
How did you feel when your daughter reacted so emotionally during the video?
It was overwhelming; tears welled up inside me. Her hug brought a sense of warmth that words couldn’t convey.
It reminded me of our everyday moments together when I came home exhausted from work. She understands the sacrifices I make for both of us and comforts me with that same hug every day.
What was going through your mind as you sang “Happy Birthday” to your daughter in front of everyone?
Before we arrived at the restaurant, Hawraa was feeling a bit down. When I asked her what was wrong, she said that her hair didn’t look the way she wanted it to and that I looked “prettier” than her.
As I sang to her at the restaurant and filmed her, the only thought in my head was quite simple. She is, and always will be the prettiest girl to me.
Has the video changed anything or brought about any special moments or opportunities?
The video opened up special moments. I shared my perspective just in an interview on TV yesterday. It’s been a chance to spread a message of love and family bonds.
What message or lesson do you hope people take away from watching this heartwarming moment?
Having kids is an enriching experience. However, it also comes with immense responsibility and challenges that everyone should be prepared for.
I hope that people watching the video understand the depth of the bond between parent and child, and realize the importance of being ready for the responsibilities that come with parenthood.
The Story Behind The Camera
On the other side of the story is Hamza, the person behind the camera, who initially captured this precious moment.
He had no prior connection to the father and daughter, he happened to be enjoying lunch at Beirut Bay when this heartwarming moment unfolded before his eyes.
Captivated by the genuine emotions and love on display, Hamza quickly took out his phone and recorded the scene. Little did he know that this spontaneous act would lead to a viral sensation.
Hamza shared with us his surprise at the video’s viral success: “I posted the video first on TikTok, not expecting much, not even 100 likes. I went to sleep, and to my surprise, when I woke up the video had spread like wildfire. Thank God, it was a beautiful coincidence.”
Since its debut on TikTok, the video has amassed an outstanding 38.4 million views and counting, captivating viewers worldwide and touching the hearts of millions.
The Man In The Background
The video also captured the reaction of a stranger in the background, whose tearful response mirrored the emotional intensity of the scene.
He revealed in a comment that “The reason for my emotional reaction is because it reminded me of my grandchildren living far away in Saudi Arabia, separated from me. Thank God I possess a soft heart and I get emotional very easily. And the moment was truly touching when the daughter teared up and hugged her father.”
This stranger, prominently featured in the video wearing an orange shirt, has become a symbol of the universal empathy and connection felt by the viewers. His reaction represents us all.
