Abstract
In various periods of history, hijab as a religious symbol has been under criticism by
the west and the modernist forces. The disapproval of hijab increased in the
aftermath of 9/11. The sections of society that oppose hijab associate this dress
code historically with subordination and servility of Muslim women. In the present
scenario, immigrant Muslim women in western countries and native Muslim
women in the countries where the states control women dress code are specially
frustrated in wearing the attire of their choice. However, they have asserted their
dress preference against all odds. The present paper argues that hijab is merely a
symbol. The oppression linked with it depends on the social and political dynamics
of the society in which it is practiced. More than these, it depends on the will and
the mental state of the wearer herself. This study develops the thesis that the
present Muslim woman, by adopting hijab, is carving public space for herself and
this dress serves as an instrument of autonomy and self-esteem for her.
Waseem Fayyaz, Anila Kamal. (2014) Practicing Hijab (veil): A Source of Autonomy and Self-esteem for Modern Muslim Women, The Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences, Volume-22, Issue-1.
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