Excerpt:

Haya faces societal judgment and internal conflict at a family engagement, strengthening her resolve to embrace her faith and modesty despite external pressures.

Summary:

In Episode 32, Haya’s journey of self-discovery and resistance against societal pressures takes another pivotal turn. The episode begins with Haya reflecting on her struggle to maintain her newfound identity, especially in the face of judgment from those around her. She continues to grapple with the complexities of modesty and her relationship with the hijab, particularly as she prepares to attend her cousin Iram’s engagement ceremony.

The engagement ceremony is being held at her Uncle Furqan’s lavish lawn, a segregated event in name only, as male waiters, videographers, and cousins freely enter the so-called “ladies’ section.” Haya feels frustrated by the double standards of such societal norms, where women are expected to adhere to strict modesty while men’s presence is accepted without question. Despite her internal conflict, Haya chooses not to wear her abaya for this event but instead dons a modest green dress that covers her fully. She wraps a large scarf around her head, ensuring that her beauty is concealed, ready to adjust it into a niqab if needed.

During the ceremony, Haya is bombarded with questions about her decision to wear a headscarf, particularly from her cousin Fatima and other female relatives. They express surprise and even annoyance, failing to understand Haya’s personal choice. The constant questioning leaves Haya emotionally drained, as she feels judged for trying to follow her values in a world that seems determined to challenge her at every step. Meanwhile, the other girls at the engagement, including Saharish and Sana, prepare for a dance performance, wearing sleeveless dresses without any judgment from the same people who question Haya.

Haya’s internal struggle deepens as she recalls a story shared by her professor in her second semester of Shariah and Law studies. The story of a father who had warned his daughter against having a photoshoot at her wedding, only for her to regret not heeding his advice, resonates with Haya. She realizes that her choice to adopt a more modest lifestyle is not just about clothing but about aligning herself with a path that prioritizes spiritual well-being over societal expectations.

The episode ends with Haya feeling emotionally exhausted by the engagement, but resolute in her decision to continue her journey of faith and self-discovery, despite the constant scrutiny from others. She is reminded of the complexities of balancing personal faith with the pressures of society and how each small decision tests her resolve.