From almost the very beginning of this incredibly insightful book into the political meanings of the hijab/niqab (condensed into a veil for ease), we are told by Dr Sahar Ghumkhor:โI refuse to answer the question.โ [p.viii] What is the question she is refusing to answer? The one that is perhaps most obviously asked a Muslim…
Hailing from the heartland of Kashmirโs fading cottage industry, Sonawariโs women carpet-weavers are fighting odds to hold the fort. In her struggle-wracked life, Masrat has always faced trials and tribulations with smile and spine. As a young girl supposed to attend her school, she decided to become her dispossessed fatherโs support. Later as a newly-wed…