In Some Places in the World, Some Women Experience Violence If They Turn Down a Marriage Proposal

By | April 17, 2017

Arrange marriages still exist in many countries in the world. Because of this tradition, many individuals are fated to spend their lifetime with a person they don’t love.

Some women are brave enough to defy such practice, but for some, turning down a marriage proposal comes with a price to pay.

In order to show the world the brutality these women wen through, Photographer Emilio Morenatti, created a photo series featuring Pakistani women who were doused in acid for saying no to marriage proposals. Morenatti’s work depicted the culture of violence towards women who stepped up and made decisions for themselves.

Although they have been permanently disfigured by the this heinous act,  their courage to defy the tradition and take charge of their own destiny is inspiring. Morenatti is hoping that this photo series would help raise awareness on domestic violence and give voice to victims.

Here are their stories...

Irum Saeed, 30

When Irum was just 18, a man whom she refused to marry threw an acid on her face, back and shoulders. This is how she looks after undergoing 25 corrective surgeries.

 

Shahnaz Bibi, 35

Ten years ago, Shahnaz was burnt with acid by a relative due to a familiar dispute. She has never undergone plastic surgery.

Kanwal Kayum, 26

Morenatti took this photo a year after Kanwal was brutally attacked by man whose marriage proposal she turned down. Like Shahnaz, Kanwal has never had any surgeries yet.

 

Saira Liaqat, 26

At 15, Saira was married but had to live with her family until she finished school. Her husband wasn’t pleased with idea of  waiting for Saira so he threw an acid at her as punishment.

Countries where Arranged Marriage is Still Common

The arranged marriage system was common in the 18th century but as time passed, this type of marital union became less prevalent in many areas of the world particularly Western countries and developed societies.

But even today, there are still many places in the world that uphold the tradition of marrying for practical purposes instead of love and with mutual consent...

-India
-Pakistan
-China
-Israel
-Japan

H/T Rachfeed