Question

Q.3 Discuss the use of lihaaf as metaphor in Ismat Chughtai’s story.

Answer 1

• In her short story, Ismat Chughtai creatively uses the 'Lihaaf' both as an object as well as a metaphor. Metaphorically, the 'lihaaf' conceals and puts a cover on the reality. Thus, Begum Jan becomes a 'lihaaf' for the Nawab's own proclivity for 'fair complexioned, slender-waisted young boy students.
• he story takes you behind the curtain, plays in the shadows of same-sex desire, and lifts the veil off the longings of women in Muslim households.
• Ismat Chughtai’s Lihaaf has been one of her most controversial works, one that got her summoned to the court on charges of obscenity.
• On Ismat Chughtai’s birth anniversary, The Quint curates from her short story.

Answer 2

The question is to discuss the use of lihaaf as metaphor in Ismat Chughtai’s story. In her story , Ismat Chughtai creatively uses the 'Lihaaf' both as an object also as a metaphor.

• Metaphorically, the 'lihaaf' conceals and puts a canopy on the reality.
• Thus, Begum Jan  is the person who becomes a 'lihaaf' for the Nawab's own proclivity for 'fair complexioned, slender-waisted young boy students.
• The story takes you behind the curtain, plays within the shadows of same-sex desire, and lifts the veil off the longings of girls in Muslim households.
• They have always been suppressed  not to show off their real feelings.
• Ismat Chughtai’s Lihaaf has been one among her most controversial works.
• It also got her summoned to the court on charges of obscenity.

On Ismat Chughtai’s birth anniversary, The Quint curates from her story .

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