‘Pardah Nashin,’ a collection by Kahkasha Sidra, investigates the perceived versus actual role of clothing in protecting women. The collection explores garments that simulate modesty on the outside while being conceptually (and symbolically) equipped for real defense.
There is a conflict between the indoors and outdoors; being seen and not being seen, that the story explores.
This collection is shot in the city of Patna, India, the hometown for all the artists involved in this project.
Act 1: The Realization
Set within the quiet safety of her home, the Pardah Nashin lives a life of veiled protection.
Act 2: The Awakening
Draped in crawling midnight blue, she steps out of the purity of daylight.
A space between realization and transformation.
Act 3: The Outing
Her outward form echoes of soft drapes. But beneath the folds lie real tools of safety, a silent declaration of preparedness.
Act 4: The Blades Beneath
In broad daylight, she blends in, draped in fading soft green. Within its folds are blades and discreet daggers - her garment is her armor.
