Mashal 2024: A fest of modest fun, empowerment and joy for women

The festival is intended to create a space for women to engage in uplifting and culturally enriching activities.

Hyderabad: The sun cast a golden glow over the bustling Exhibition Grounds as women of all ages gathered for the much-anticipated three-day fest, ‘Mashal 2024’ on Friday. Organized by the Girls Islamic Organization (GIO), the event provided an unconventional yet fulfilling experience for those seeking entertainment without the usual trappings of loud music, dance, and glittering festivities.

This unique festival is a space where young Muslim women could enjoy recreational activities in a modest, meaningful way, fostering Islamic values and cultural enrichment. Despite being deeply rooted in Islamic principles, the event welcomed women from all faiths, offering a refreshing alternative to the often Westernized forms of entertainment dominating today’s culture.

At the heart of the festival is the theme “Ye Subha Hum Hi Se Ayegi, Wo Subha Hum Hi Layenge”—a stirring call to action encouraging women to become the harbingers of a brighter future. The GIO, active in Telangana since 2006, aims to empower young women through such initiatives. “We want to promote halal and wholesome entertainment,” shared Asfia Anam, GIO’s City President.

The festival is intended to create a space for women to engage in uplifting and culturally enriching activities. “Mashal is more than just a fest. It is a movement to instill self-awareness, creativity, and the confidence to uphold our values in a rapidly changing world,” remarked Faizunnisa. The programme attracted about 6000 women and girls from different parts of the city.

The first day featured a variety of competitions like talent treasure, open mic, tarana, archery, calligraphy and Qirat. The fest provided a platform for Muslims girls to showcase their creativity. Some of them presented their paintings while some engaged in bait-bazi—a traditional form of poetic exchange that celebrated linguistic beauty and intellect. The energy was palpable as participants shared verses and applauded one another’s wit and talent.

Another highlight was the ‘mystery walk’, an activity designed to encourage introspection and self-awareness. Women strolled through themed zones, each symbolizing different aspects of life, such as patience, resilience, and gratitude. There were also sections on paradise (jannat) and hell (jahannum). “It was like looking into a mirror of the soul,” said Ayesha, a college student who participated. The programme seamlessly blended practical advice with spiritual insights, leaving the audience both motivated and reflective.

Parallel sessions on personality development and social responsibility are also lined up in the next two days. On Friday Mrs. Nazeerul Hasan, Dr. Nazneen Sadat, Sumaiya Rasool Khan and Maria Arif inaugurated different activities and delivered thought-provoking talks, inspiring attendees to embrace leadership roles in their communities.

The festival also had its share of lighthearted moments. Fun frenzy games had women laughing and bonding, while the ‘food fusion’ corner offered a delectable array of dishes. The event exuded a sense of sisterhood as strangers became friends over shared laughter and meals.

For those craving intellectual engagement, there are panel discussions on topics such as education, personality development and social responsibility. “It’s empowering to be part of something that values our intellect and encourages us to question,” noted Safiya, a participant.

As the event unfolded, it became evident that Mashal 2024 is more than just a festival; it is a beacon of hope and a celebration of identity. The women left with not just memories but a renewed sense of purpose.