Mukhtar Mai gained the attention of media around the world back in 2002 when she fought back against the men who gang raped her on the order of a neighbouring village tribe. Customarily women who have been raped in the village are expected to commit suicide, however Mukhtar Mai also known as Mukhtar Bibi did the unthinkable and fought back against the horrific crime against her. Mukthar's story in this film is not a look at the incident that shaped her life but her battle against traditions and how she channeled her anger into supporting women, and enabling them to believe in themselves through education and justice.
Catherine Ulme (Director) does a phenomenal job showcasing many stories of young girls, and women who deserve the opportunity to overcome the injustice they face on a daily basis. Many women in the surrounding rural areas search out Mukhtar's support and guidance for justice for themselves and their families. Muktar Bibi's efforts include two schools she opened for girls in a culture where boys were only deemed worthy of education. These efforts are just some that will allow young girls to be able to open doors they never thought possible through education. The film describes Mukhtar as an "Angel with broken wings". She truly is an angel in the way that she has given back and moved forward with her life, giving it a purpose. The beauty of her spirit that kept running through this film was the essence of Mukhtar, and women everywhere. Women are nurturing, beautiful and powerful beyond thier wildest dreams regardless of where they come from and the hand they are dealt, they know how to overcome. The publicity with regards to Mukhtars personal story and her work have provided some support and resources with regards to the infrastructure in the community. However Mukhtar daily deals with the fear of losing her life.
Mukthar Mai also has an autobiography "In the Name of Honour", which discusses her horrific rape. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she was named one of Asia's Heroes by Time Magazine back in 2004, and Women of the Year by Glamour as well. Mukhtar married in 2009, again overcoming another cultural stigma for women who have been raped can not marry. If you are interested in supporting Mukhtars efforts you can contact the Mukhtar Mai Women's Welfare Organization.
This is a FREE SCREENING! So you have no reason not to check this inspirational film out at ENMEDIA Gallery #203
, 351 – 11 Ave. SW (entrance is located through parking lot) on Thursday September 30, at 3:00pm.
This story will leave you appreciating and valuing the rights we have as women in this part of the world, and will tear at you for these women you will be see in this film deserve the same rights but have been bound by the societal norms of the part of the world in which they live.
