Kabul Beauty

Behind the controversial national costume of Afghanistan, the sky-blue burkha, lies hidden the ideal of beauty on the face of the Afghan woman. Afghan women are put away within the four walls of the house, under cover of age-old costumes and traditions, which are uphold to preserve a fragile honour.

Afghanistan is licking its wounds after three decades of blood-stained conflicts, and the Afghans are struggling to rebuild a meaningful life. For the women there are very few professions which allow them to support their family. However, one particular profession stands out: In the streets of Kabul beauty parlours are flourishing everywhere – owned and run exclusively by women – with the aim of promoting the Afghan woman’s beauty.

“Kabul Beauty” is a 12 minute documentary about two female entrepreneurs, Sima and Shakiba, who against all odds have opened their own beauty parlours in Kabul. Their job is to transform young Afghan girls into adult-looking brides, ready for the huge Afghan weddings.

The success of being an independent female beautician has its price in a male-dominated society like Afghanistan. Malicious gossip and rumours as well as clashes with the authorities are some of the daily obstacles that Sima and Shakiba have to face. It takes will and courage to be an entrepreneur in Afghanistan – especially when you are a woman!

Esben Hansen

Biography and filmography (doc-file)

Erna Andersen

Curriculum vitae (doc-file)