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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.
Keywords hijab; modern Muslim women; religious symbol;
Introduction
Humankind has used dress for various purposes. Among these purposes are modesty, protection, and beautification (Flügel, 1966)1. Qur'an has focused on modesty and beautification, though emphasized dress of piety at the same time (7:26). The attire we wear is also strongly connected with identity. It is related with the sense of one's self (Humphreys & Brown, 2002). Different classes of society wear different dress to mark their status and position in society. Kings and ruling elite have worn heavy and elaborate robes while public clothing has been simple. We use different uniforms to mention our jobs or institutions. People of different cultures wear different dresses. Besides culture and region where we live, dress code is also determined by the faith we espouse. This way dress becomes a symbol of one's religious identity and the modesty associated with it.
Head covering has been usually considered one of the most important identifier of a Muslim woman and has been practiced more or less throughout the Islamic world. Hijab in particular (headscarf/face veil along with a baya, a long gown, generally in black colour), has been the part of women costume in various Muslim states....