The documentary film "Lipstick Under My Burkha" (2017) has sparked significant conversations about feminism, identity, and the struggles of Muslim women in India. Directed by Aliza Gulzar and Rebecca Snow, the film follows the lives of four Indian Muslim women who challenge societal norms and expectations.
Of course, not everyone was as open-minded as Aisha or as adventurous as Zara. There were those who would disapprove of her bold lip color, who would see it as a challenge to tradition and social norms. But Zara was ready for that.
Directed by Alankrita Shrivastava, this 2017 black comedy-drama broke barriers in Indian cinema. It follows the secret lives of four women in a small town who seek freedom and a sense of identity away from the restrictive norms of their society.
The film revolves around four women from different walks of life, all living in Mumbai. There's Alia (Sajal Ali), a young and free-spirited college student; Binta (Sonam Kapoor), a fashion-conscious and modern woman; Kashmira (Regina Cassandra), a bold and confident young woman; and Noor (Ayesha Takia), a happy-go-lucky and carefree woman.
: While some found the film's later subplots a bit melodramatic, most reviewers from The Hindu and NDTV lauded it as a "breezy" yet "audacious" piece of cinema that finally gives a voice to long-suppressed desires. Lipstick Under My Burkha review - The Hindu
: A college student who wears a burkha to satisfy her conservative family but dreams of becoming a pop singer and wearing western clothes. The Times of India Themes and Impact
“Lipstick Under My Burkha” encourages viewers to reflect on the everyday constraints placed on women and the small, often clandestine acts of defiance that can lead to broader societal change. Its blend of humor, drama, and strong female perspectives makes it both an entertaining and thought‑provoking watch.
