Can She Change the World?
It is difficult to believe that a slender, 18-year-old Muslim tennis player from India has the potential to change the world, but it is equally difficult to overestimate the effect Sania Mirza is having on millions of young men and women, and especially women, in the world's second most populous country....To read more click here.Sania Mirza is from my home town and I am very proud of her achievements.
43 Comments:
I think that what Sania Mirza has done is very amazing and extremely inspiring. I am a competitive figure skater, so I can relate to how it must feel for her to have got this far, especially with all of the circumstances she has had to deal with to get to this point. I also think that is really neat that she is from your home town Dr. Khan, Congrats!
It is such a great accomplishment to be in the top 40 tennis players in the world because there are so many good and talented ones out there, and Mirza is not coming from a country that is known for their tennis players, so therefore she is at a slight disadvantage because she probably does not have the training facilities or instruction that many tennis players get in other countries, such as Russia and the United States, etc. I think that Mirza is very brave, because India takes their culture and how their women dress very seriously, and I think that it takes someone with a lot of courage to go against that, even though I hardly call Mirza wearing a tennis skirt leaving nothing for the imagination as the article said. I believe that anyone can change the world, so I do think that Mirza has the ability to change the world. Mirza is setting an example for many young girls in India that have never had someone to look up to from their country like her. Mirza is letting the girls know that they have opportunities to do what they want and be what they want and they can do it because she is living proof that it can be done.
Kandis Kovalsky
October 19, 2005
This post has been removed by the author.
I believe that what Sania Mirza has done is what we can call the continuation of the clash between traditionalism and modernity. I think one of the main reasons why the Muslims World and many other Asian countries are so offensive to US is that they are scared of losing their traditional values with their kids being influenced by Western culture. I think to them Sania posses that threat. Maybe what Sania has done might lead other indian (specially muslim indias) to follow her lead. I think that this an understandable issue from their perspective, but at the same time, the way they are conducting this issue is hypocritical of them. The main issue here with Sania (according to the Muslim clerics) is the problem with the dress code. It is considered HARAM for the Muslim women to be showing off their skin to the public. But if it is HARAM for SANIA to wear a skirt, it should also be HARAM for hundreds and thousands of Muslims (actresses, actors, models, etc) in Bollywood who in terms of showing skin, go far beyond what Sania has. If the Clerics want to give fatwa to SANIA for wearing inapporpriate clothes, then they should do so to every one else. And if they are just condemning Sania for wearing a skirt, while leaving many others behind, then I found that of utmost hypocracy!
Mustafa Zia
10/19
This post has been removed by the author.
Though Sania Mirza may only be 18, she has accomplished more than many people twice her age. I also think that her spirit and determination can help her change the world. Her country criticizes her for the clothes she wears and the things she says. However, she has not let that stop her from doing and saying what she beleives in. Years agos even in the United States, women were frowned upon for wearing skirts that were too short. Eventually though, society evolved and peoples' views of what was and wasn't acceptable changes as well. In the begining, of course, change is not accepted. But over time people learn that a short skirt or a woman playing tennis does not have to disrupt their entire value system. Someone, someday would eventually do and say the thngs Mirza is saying in India. Because of globalization and the technology that allows us to be so interconnected, it is just a matter of time before India, as well as other countries feel the effects. These include not only material aspects such as clothing and fashion trends but a dissemination of cultural values as well. Sania Mirza may be the first to take some of the steps and create some of the changes that she has recently, but she surely won't be the last.
Christine Madurski
10/19/05
I think what Sania Miraza is doing is amazing. The conflict stems from the fact that the indecent dress is not traditionally accepted in Muslim culture. However, the dress is part of the game and part of that world. The world of tennis is not a Muslim world. It is one of many global worlds. In many religions, murder is a sin; however we are obliged to go to war for our countries. War is an exception to the sin of murder. I think that many people are worried about how the younger generations will interpret this behavior. If Sania’s dress on the court is explained to young people just as war is explained, young people will know that what is accepted elsewhere in certain situations is not accepted from them at home.
In the article, a Muslim cleric, Hasheeb-ul-Hassan Siddiqui, argued that Sania Mirza is “undoubtedly a corrupting influence” on an entire generation of young Muslim girls. This statement would be correct if he said some of her pioneering actions were counter to traditional society of Muslim India rather than just corrupting the youth. As we have talked about in class, India is a rapidly developing nation but not to a modern society but a post-modern one. Sania Mirza is just a product of this turning point in India. Brought up in an increasingly economically prosperous country, a new generation with new views is created. Sania Mirza is looked at as the poster child for this new woman who “inspires a whole new generation”. I also uncovered hints of globalization throughout this article. The playing of tennis, Sania’s fashion sense, and an obsessed celebrity culture are all becoming global aspects which Sania Mirza is an example of. But as she enters this global arena, she still remains a Muslim, Indian, 18 year old girl, who can have characteristics of both a modern and a traditional society.
I agree that the impact Sania is having represents a clash between traditionalism and modernity. While traditional values are causing some Muslims to condemn the image Sania is setting as a role model for other Muslim women, those with modern values of a globalizing world idolize her for the steps she is taking for Muslim women as well as women all over the world. As with any other circumstance where traditionalism and modernity are in conflict, there will always be opposition to people or events that further modernity.With the direction our increasingly shrinking world is going in, those with traditional values will have to accept the evolving roles and changing social categories of women, because these roles will not be reversing. Sania Mirza presents a stong signal of this to traditionalists.
Katie Ruiz
October 19,2005
I think it is remarkable what a global icon Sania Mirza has become as a teenager. She is a stunning girl who’s confidence and strong will has been proven in taking up the sport of tennis in India; a sport that women have been discouraged from participating in. Her liberal thinking is producing a positive outcome globally. She’s helping to achieve women’s rights and at the same time is an exemplary athlete, giving Indian female athlete’s optimism in sports for the first time. In a country that many think of as very traditional, she is showing how modernization can be beneficial. I look forward to seeing her accomplishments in tennis and as a public figure.
Nicole Appleman 10/19/05
Sania Mirza is the case and point in the clash of tradition and modernity. To become her is a dream to some, and to kill her is a dream to others. She is bringing the fight between those of the "old ways" and those of the "new ways" to a head. She is making her point not only with what she is doing, by playing a sport, but by what she is saying and wearing too. It takes abnormal courage to step out from what your religious leaders, community and culture are telling you and go your own way. There is no telling what she will do for the ever increasing transition of India to modernity.
Sania Mirza undoubtedly represents the conflict in the ongoing modernization of traditional India. As India modernizes, and global values and ideas spread to the country, the malleable minds of young people are greatly influenced. It is always in the new generations that striking change occurs. Just think about your own lives, especially American women. Don’t you think your grandmothers would have a problem with many of the clothes America women wear today? I think the same fundamental issue exists in India between Muslim clerics who are rooted in tradition and traditional beliefs and young people who are quickly embracing globalization and the influx of new cultural changes and modifications. I think that for Sania, only 18 years old, to challenge traditional views in a international spotlight is amazing, and an amazing way to inspire other young people and to fuel greater change.
Stephen Stolte
10/20/05
Is there any way this article could be reposted? The link does not go to the article.
mitch masucci 10/22
http://www.newstatesman.com/200510170019
Here's where you can reach it now, but you can literally only see it once a day.
Sania Mirza is an amazing woman. Her story represents the clash between traditional and modernity. One on hand she has her Muslim beliefs and her country where she is from, which are all traditional values. Then you have tennis and the clothes that she has to wear to play tennis, which are modern things. To some people in India Mirza represents an evil that is encouraging young girls to play tennis and to modernize, but I do not think that is the case. Mirza represents a balance between traditional and modernity. In some cases she is very traditional but in other she is modern. If Mirza improves in tennis she is going to become even more influential and I think she will teach the youth of India that you can be both traditional and modern.
Sania Mirza is an excellent example of blending the old with the new. As she becomes known throughout the world, it will be difficult for those who are angry with her, namely the more traditional Muslims, to control her. Mirza has made it clear that she does not mind the criticism she has been receiving because of the tshirts she has been seen wearing. She is a good role model because she can show women in India that with hardwork you can succeed in a world outside of the borders and rules of India. She is something to be respected because she has found her own place in the world and does not ask for permission to do so.
Sania Mirza is definitely going to play a huge role in breaking down stereotypes, exemplifying that Muslim women too, desire to change restraints and limits forced upon them by their traditional identity. Thus, associating Muslim women with many other cultures where women have struggled to gain more rights. Being in the public eye, she is becoming a symbol of conflict, between modern and traditional. "Can she change the world?" that is far more than a challenge or tennis match, can she change perspective, that is certain.
Can she change the world? I believe she is on her way! Sania Mirza is a very courageous young woman, who takes her sport and her place in it seriously. I commend her for not conforming with her society and wearing the clothes needed to compete. She is using sports as a new language of globalization! It is great to see such an amazing athlete come from a developing world. This helps put India on the map on many levels. I believe her success in the tennis world is a further testament that India is ready to compete, not just on the court but in the global world.
Women's tennis is the international venue through which a women could affect the most change of people throughout the world. Tennis is undoubtedly popular internationally and is the one sport more than any other where women receive the credit they deserve for their athletic accomplishments. While the initial focus on Sania Mirza is clearly on her being a young, Muslim woman, it is important to note that she is an incredible position to affect change on millions of people regardless of religion or gender. Athletic competition is extremely reflective of human beings and many of our innate desires. In order for one to succeed, especially in a non-team sport such as tennis, a person must possess a plethora of both physical and mental attributes that are the culmination of a strong and powerful human being. All people can benefit from understanding the significance of Sania Mirza's success despite the seemingly endless number of obstacles designed to keep her subordinate. Hopefully her strong character will help many other women in her possession to feel empowered and realize their human potential that lies inside every individual, yet unfortunately is often stifled because of cultural or religious paradigms.
10/23
I agree with Stacey that Sania is trying to balance traditional and modern values; however, I am concerned that she could become quite westernized as her fame grows. The article talks about the clash between tradition and modernity yet it takes a “modern” point of view—it highlights negative aspects of traditionalism (such as the outrage of the clerics). However, it is important to remember that tradition values and lifestyles associate with more than just angry religious clerics. I hope that as the time goes by she will not lose touch with her people, country, and current identity, and she will not become negatively intoxicated with fame and popularity as she is being put into the international spotlight.
Juris Pupcenoks, 10/23
Sania Mirza coud not have arrived at a better time. This (she) is exactly what the Muslim community needs. What Mirza is accomplishing is the destruction of Muslim stereotypes, especially among the youth. This effect is compounded by the fact she is a woman. If asked to draw a portrait of a muslim girl, most westerners would depict a clothed woman wrapped in a hijab, appearing nervous, quiet, or despondent. Not a vivacious athlete with a confident attitude, respectfully stating: I am a muslim and an individual.
This is also a positive vehicle for the Muslim community, especially young girls, who can take a more agnostic approach to Islamic law and express their individuality. Islam is not oppressive, stereotypes are, and it is people like Sania Mirza who come and break down these stereotypes will change the world. The fact that she's from your home town is cool as well.
I think we need to be careful in how we label this. In some sense it may be "what the Muslim community needs" as Sheidan said but that has to be clarified. Most madhhab have the view that some type of hair coverting dress is necessary to satisfy the sartorial aspects of hijab and for anyone to support her action is wrong. What should be supported is her right to do what she has done (presuming it's all of her own volition). Within that perspective what she has done is a big deal, because she is showing that she has made her choice and has made it that way despite the stereotypes. However when you cross the line of saying that her change in dress is good in itself then you've crossed the line into create culture conflict. It seems she's making it more acceptable for girls to choose what they want and maybe removing the stigma of not choosing what the majority chooses. In the end she is no more inspiring (to me) than anyone whom makes up their own mind despite adversity, she just has a bigger audience. In the end I don't think we can really divorce this from any moral systems, I just think it forces the realization that different moral systems exist.
In response to the comment above mine, I think Mirza differs from others who express themselves despite adversity in the simple fact that the majority of the others would not have the courage to express themselves in front of the entire world. They might do it in their own communtities, but Mirza has the bravery to do in in the global spotlight.
She surely goes against many peoples' ideas of a traditional Muslim woman. I think she is an inspiration to women all over the globe, not just Muslims. Simply put, she is a woman who is pursuing her dreams despite others telling her not to. Mirza is challenging the traditional way of life, and I think this could be the catalyst for young Muslims everywhere to make the transition from traditional to modern.
Marissa Brescia 10.24.05
I feel Sania Mirza can change the world. More and more young people today are influencing other young people of the world. Sania Mirza is a young Muslim woman who is playing tennis and breaking sterotypes. She has impacted her own country and other countries because of what she has overcome. She is in the top 40 tennis players in the world and that is amazing since she is from a country that is not well known for its tennis players. She is also so young. I feel that she is up there with some great young athletes who are impacting the world. She is stepping out of the shadow of Indian culture. She is very brave for doing what she loves to do. More and more people of our generation are not afraid of ritucule from earlier generations because it is normal for change.
Sania Mirza is very likly to make a change in the world. Everyone has a chance to make a change in the world, but she is doing something very difficult from her counrty by stepping out of the shadows of her culture and playing with the best tennis players in the world and being in the top 40 with the best of them. All I have to say is you go girl and keep doing what you love.
Sania Mirza seems to be a very impressive individual as the previous bloggers have all stated. As a person who played competitive tennis, I know how challenging it is to get to the top level, seeing how I was never that close. Also the fact that she has never had really any advantages over her opponents,makes it even more amazing. This is definitely a very impressive story, about someone defying the odds and making a name for herself and her culture.
Josh Kalish 10/24 11:13 p.m
What Sania Mirza has accomplished is extremely great and now she can be looked at as a role model for women from India and especially young Muslim women. I feel that she is a positive influence for young Muslims girls because they can easily relate to her on multiple levels. They see her as someone who comes from the same background and religion and see her rising to a new level not reached by anyone from that area before. Because of this they can envision themselves doing what Sania Mirza does which will push the Muslim girls into new careers and ventures never before entered.
Although the new inspiration given to young Muslim girls is a positive factor, I agree with the religious cleric in the sense that Sania Mirza is violating the laws of Islam. I am not sure on the specifics but if women are not to expose their arms or hair then she is definitely in violation. I am not saying that I agree with the laws but if what the cleric says is true then she is corrupting the youth in a sense. The youth are raised a certain way and when they see Sania dressing and acting a certain way which has been prohibited in their culture then they might think that it is ok to do so. I am not saying that I agree with the cleric on the rule that women should cover the arms, hair or whatever but I feel that he voices a legitimate concern although I am not sure that this concern advocates her being publicly criticized by the cleric.
Overall I feel that Sania Mirza is a positive influence on her community and is showing how the world is becoming more global and how all types of people can be successful at anything they wish.
12:30
10/25/2005
As was stated before, this article truly presents another aspect of the clash of cultures. One of the main issues that keeps Sania Mirza from receiving support from her community is nothing more than the uniform she has to wear. Ironically, this is a hurdle that women in the United States also had to overcome in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League; however, the controversy seems to be in opposition to that presented in the article. Because of the image that society had of women and feminity at the time, their uniforms consisted of one-piece, short-skirted, flared tunics and satin tights, which was obviously impractical for the sport. If women were not able to break down this barrier and begin to wear the similar uniforms of male players in later decades, many young girls would most likely be discouraged from taking up the sport. If Mirza is forced to wear an outfit appropriate to her culture, those who see her as a hero right now, may look to her as just another conformist pressured by the forces of her religion and patriarchal society as a whole. All women suffer this pressure, so maybe the culture clash is not as significant as one would assume.
Sania Mirza will be remembered as one of the catalyst's of the progression of female equality in the muslim world. With the transition from traditionalism to modernity taking place in India, steps toward female equality were bound to take place. What Sania is doing is amazing, mainly because she does not see why it is a big deal. To her she is just living her life which is the basis of equality, all people being able to live their lives. Her influence on younger women will be amazing. Not saying all young girls will turn their backs on strict traditional muslim values, but they will see that you can be other things besides a muslim, such as an athlete. They might also see that you can live whichever way you want and still practice your religion faithfully. Also Dr. Khan, do you think you can beat her?
Sean Guidera, posted 10/25
I think most of us can agree that what Sania Mirza is doing is nothing short of amazing. I am sure it is very scary to stand up against the beliefs of so many people of her country. But as time goes on, changes is only necessary. To be in the world top 40 is an accomplishment that so many only dream of. I feel that the complaints of Mirza being a "corrupting influence" to young girls is absolutly rediculous. The outfits that she choses to wear on the court should be up to her discretion. It should not be the business of anyone to tell her what she can or can not wear. I feel that the country should not be so critical and instead praise her for how wonderful of an athlete she is and how well she is representing her country. I understand that it is difficult for the older generations to change their beliefs and opinions but I feel in this situation they should make a conscience effort to appreicate her for her amazing accomplishements, and not judge her on and off the tennis court.
10/25/2005
I think the impact that Sania Mirza will have hasn't even been really felt yet. She has broken traditional values to pursue her desires. She is the first Indian female tennis player, and has become a role model to others. WIth her tenacity and talent she will achieve so much more and become a global icon.
The main reason why the muslim clerics are upset is because of Mirza's attire. I'm personally proud of what she is wearing and whats she is doing. She should be able to wear what she feels comfortable in. She should not feel constricted when she plays. The muslim clerics feel that she will pose a threat to other girls of her generation and future generations. I think that if she continues to do what she is doing and disregards negative feedback from the clerics, it will help transform some of the negative views about her attire. Aslo by doing so, she will rank even higher in the top 40. She will become an icon for females in India and will lead the way for other females to achieve there dreams.
To say that Sania Mirza can change the world is a strong and overreaching statement. I think it would be better to say that due to her talent and fame she now has the opportunity to change the world's perceptions of Indian Muslim women. Her accomplishments can bring honor and pride to the people of her country. Due to all of the attention she is receiving Mirza is given the chance to show the world a different side to a Muslim woman than what is commonly shown, the chance to breakdown stereotypes. Although I agree that her accomplishments are quite remarkable, I do not completely agree with how she has handled her responsibility as a role model. She has the right to express herself and to be independent but I think that certain actions, such as wearing tee-shirts with rude and offensive statements, are not sending the right message to the public. I’m sure that with time and maturity she will further embrace her position as a role model and present herself in a way which would properly convey her background. I believe that she has the right to dress however she may chose, yet she should act with awareness to the fact that she is being watched by the whole world.
So does that Muslim cleric have anything better to do than issue fatwas against a tennis player? I wonder if the cleric really thinks his fatwa is going to change anything. This situation kind of reminds me of what happened Ice T's hard core band Body Count in the early 90's. They made a very controversial song called "Cop Killer". George H.W. Bush, Dan Quayle, and Charleton Heston all spoke out in condemning the song. The result; album sales went up because of the publicity (allthough the song was eventually dropped from the album). Simalarly NWA saw album sales increase when conservatives spoke out against there song "F the Police", also in the early 90's. So if India is anything like America this cleric is probably adding to the hype Mizra is creating. Being a Christian in this culture I know what it is like to find ones values at odds with that of mainstream society, but when religious conservatives make these kinds of statements this cleric did, they end up looking silly. America has become a hyper-sexual society in which womens bodies have become totally objectified. If India is going to follow Americas lead on this, I can understand why this cleric is concerned. But, I do not think fatwas are the answer.
Sania Mirza’s background, religion, personality, and success, provide the ingredients necessary to become a cultural icon. Although a comparison to Muhammad Ali may be a little premature, Mirza has the potential to impact society in a way that few sports stars can. A female Muslim on the world stage is rare enough; let alone an athlete who is increasingly becoming more popular ‘on and off the field’. Muslim cleric, Hasheeb-ul-Hassan Siddiqui, could not have been more wrong when he argued that Sania Mirza is “undoubtedly a corrupting influence” on an entire generation of young Muslim girls. Mirza is a young and independent woman who provides an excellent role model for young girls all over the world, especially Muslim girls.
10/29
the story of sania mirza is a great example of a conflict between traditionalism and modernity. sania is a new role model in india's modern society and this can be seen in the superstardom that she is receiving. i think that the role that she is playing will have a great impact on many young people growing up in india now. the fact that she can't leave her house now without a body gurad shows that people are looking up to her and feel she is someone whome they would want to emulate. i think that when you are breaking new ground you will always have people looking at you in a negative way but you just have to be able to continue on. in my opinion i think she is in a position to play a huge role on muslim society and can have a great impact on many young people.
kevin burke
oct 31, 2005
Sania Mirza does not want to be the conflict between traditionalism and modernity. It's interesting that we're discussing this in light of her final comment at the end of the article where she complains about everything she wears being scrutinized. We're missing the point here somewhere - although admitedly I'm not sure how to explain it. In Sania I see a coexistance, not a conflict, of a person. She has many identities - tennis star, young woman, Indian, Muslim, etc. Yes a lot of people are saying a lot of things about her - and it seems to mostly be soundbytes as opposed to anything of real substance - but what does she say? If anything, we can take from her a lesson that people can live with multiple identities, all of which can coexist and compliment each other. Yes there is an element of "traditional v. modernity" but that's scratching the surface of who she really is and what is really going on. I don't remember the piece saying anything about her Muslim piety or how she handles her prayers (or if she actually prays in the perscribed fashion) - it mainly discussed what everyone else says about her. I also don't think she intentionally is challenging the traditional way of life. It seems like she doesn't understand WHY what she is doing is being challenged because she doesn't view herself as breaking a lot of rules. I'm sure she's not clueless as to why people object to what she's doing, but she doesn't say anything about renouncing Islam so that she can play tennis. She is living Islam in a way that enables her to live her life. I just read a book called "Living Islam Out Loud" and Sania's actions remind me of the title of the book.
Congratulations to Sania for accomplishing such enourmous heights of achievement with something as difficult as the sport of tennis. I applaud you Sania. Sport has been said to be a gateway for networking of young women, and a precedent toward gaining essential managerial and leadership skills that young women use to raise power and political position for their gender. She should use her exposure not only as a way to express freedom of dress, but also freedom of choice. Chooice to live a life other than the "ideal".
Sania Mirza is an amazing woman who finally has the courage to do what she loves to do, regardless of the criticism she receives from the rest of the nation. She is a stunning girl with a god-given talent to play tennis. It does however force the issue of female aparrel. It would be almost impossible for her to play tennis with a floor length gown and a head covering. So to do her job, it forces her to dress in comfortable clothing which allows movement. I believe that she should be praised for coming out of a country not necessarily known for athletes and making it into the top 40. She will force the nation a step into the right direction of womens rights and freedom. I praise her for all of her past accomplishments as well as those which are bound to happen in the future.
I think that Sania becoming a role model is a great accomplishment. A woman from a place where women aren't really supposed to be seen as models, or even be respected. But, now she nees body gaurds to walk around, being pursued to do interviews and be on billboards is a grea thing. But, i think she could do more with this new "power" of hers other then just clothing and such. MAybe to prove to young people all over that anything is possible despite where you come from and what people say.
I am really proud of Sania for doing what she likes and is good at! Like her t-shirt read at Wimbeldon, "Well behaved women rarely make history." This girl definately has a major impact on women home in India and to other girls who also have similar aspirations but are scared to defy local authorities or religious codes. In this day in age, women can not let anything hold them back to become who they want to be, and in years to come this will become normal in india and those who choose to protest can keep their faith but they don't need to impose it everyone else.
"Every word I speak, every skirt I wear, is discussed and analysed,". Whether wanting to or meaning to or not, Sania Mirza has become an icon for women's liberation and an example of the freedom and success that young women can achieve through talent, smarts, and hard work and for this she should be commended. While I feel that religion and traditions should be repsected and would never condone the mocking of someones faith. I also do not believe that any faith should be used to oppress or create a second-class status of any person and I admire Sania's clever and humorous approach to challenging traditional opinions of what is appropriate fo women to do and wear. I think she will be an important role model for young girls and hope that she continues to use this status for positive change. I also think that while she handles the issues with humor, her bravery and commitment should not be taken lightly. She is challenge traditions and customs and this will not be taken lightly in her native country. Her courage should be commended along with her talent.
Being a Muslim woman, I feel that I could relate to Sania Mirza in many terms. First and foremost, I applaud Sania for succeeding and what she wanted to do while disregarding all the scrutiny that she is being faced with. I love her slogans that she wears on her shirts during matches because it clearly proves that she is only fighting for her cause. What exactly is she doing wrong Islamically? Not covering her legs and arms? Okay, but bashing a woman's reputation can also be considered haram. I feel what she is doing is in the purest intentions and who are all those mullahs to say what she can or cannot do, its God who is to question her. If they're going to point a finger at one woman who happend to succeed in something a bit different to common tradition and who happens to be a Muslim, then why not make fatwas up against all the woman around the world who do the same or much worse. Sania Mirza just happens to be in the lime light. The issue comes down to the fact that they are scared of the American influence that is overtaking the culture. But again, if the Muslim world wants to adopt English (an American influence) and other similar things, then they must deal with the consequences which I don't feel are negative. Religion, especially Islam, is practised on a personal level and I am strongly against others scrutinating a Muslim woman and telling her what she SHOULD do. They need to look at the bigger picture which is how Sania Mirza took a step forward and provided motivation for woman all across the globe to do what THEY feel is right and truly go for their dreams.
Being a Muslim woman, I feel that I could relate to Sania Mirza in many terms. First and foremost, I applaud Sania for succeeding and what she wanted to do while disregarding all the scrutiny that she is being faced with. I love her slogans that she wears on her shirts during matches because it clearly proves that she is only fighting for her cause. What exactly is she doing wrong Islamically? Not covering her legs and arms? Okay, but bashing a woman's reputation can also be considered haram. I feel what she is doing is in the purest intentions and who are all those mullahs to say what she can or cannot do, its God who is to question her. If they're going to point a finger at one woman who happend to succeed in something a bit different to common tradition and who happens to be a Muslim, then why not make fatwas up against all the woman around the world who do the same or much worse. Sania Mirza just happens to be in the lime light. The issue comes down to the fact that they are scared of the American influence that is overtaking the culture. But again, if the Muslim world wants to adopt English (an American influence) and other similar things, then they must deal with the consequences which I don't feel are negative. Religion, especially Islam, is practised on a personal level and I am strongly against others scrutinating a Muslim woman and telling her what she SHOULD do. They need to look at the bigger picture which is how Sania Mirza took a step forward and provided motivation for woman all across the globe to do what THEY feel is right and truly go for their dreams.
Post a Comment
<< Home