Afghani Actresses Turn To Television
October 25, 2010 No Comments
In a country where women are stoned for immodesty, appearing in a soap opera is practically a political statement. However, for many of these actresses, financial need overshadows their concerns about respect.
The Secret of this House is Afghanistan’s first soap opera, created as a more wholesome alternative to those racy Hindi shows from India. The family struggles are a metaphor for the changes to the country, yet it is the actresses who are really breaking new ground.
Arzoo had has a difficult time with one of the starring roles. Her uncle attempted to kill her and the taxi drivers that take her home are routinely attacked by neighbours.
“My father said if you are happy to work in films you are dead for us,” she told the New York Times. “You are not our daughter.”
Abada earns $100 an episode, which she uses to supplement her income as a teacher. She was 13 when she got married to a man 30 years her senior. Her husband is an opium addict and is often abusive, so she works to feed their seven children.
“My brother-in-law tells my husband that he’s not a man anymore because I appear on television,” Abada said.
Shekiba also works are a police woman, but neither boss knows about the other job. Her phone is constantly ringing with death threats and romantic proposals.
“I’m an actress and policewoman, and neither is respected in this society,” she said. Three of her four brothers have disowned her, although her husband is supportive of her careers.
Many women in Afghanistan have turned to non-traditional careers to support their families through times of war. As ever, it is not the high-minded feminists paving the way, but simply mothers trying to find a way to feed their children.
