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Being Reshma: The Extraordinary Story of an Acid-Attack Survivor who Took the World by Storm
On 19 May 2014, as seventeen-year-old Reshma Qureshi left home for the examination centre, wearing her sister’s niqab, everything happened in a flash. The men rushed towards her. Grabbed her. Tugged at her hair. Poured acid on her face. Soon she started to burn like a living corpse. The acid ate through her skin and aimed for her bones, but it could not quell the fire in her heart. It lifted Reshma from tragedy and suffering and propelled her to New York, where she made global headlines by becoming the first acid-attack survivor to walk the ramp at the New York Fashion Week.
Now an international anti-acid-sale activist, vlogger, model, and the face of Make Love Not Scars, Reshma tirelessly works towards empowering other acid-attack survivors like herself and has become a beacon of hope for millions.
Inspiring and life-affirming, Being Reshma is the extraordinary story of a young girl from the slums of Mumbai who overcame insurmountable odds in a world ruled by men and dared to change it.
Now an international anti-acid-sale activist, vlogger, model, and the face of Make Love Not Scars, Reshma tirelessly works towards empowering other acid-attack survivors like herself and has become a beacon of hope for millions.
Inspiring and life-affirming, Being Reshma is the extraordinary story of a young girl from the slums of Mumbai who overcame insurmountable odds in a world ruled by men and dared to change it.
248 pages, Hardcover
Published December 14, 2018
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January 2, 2019
Acid attacks are rather common in India (yes, shocking, but true!) – and they are mostly carried out against young women. In most cases, the perpetrators are spurned suitors, jilted lovers or ex-husbands; because in a society where woman is objectified to the extreme, her physical beauty is seen to personify her in toto. Destroy it, without killing the person: and condemn her to a life of misery as a living corpse. In an impossibly male chauvinist society such as in India, this would be deemed just punishment for an “erring” woman.
In the case of seventeen-year-old Reshma Qureshi, however, even this perceived “guilt” was not there. She was targeted as an object of revenge against her family, by her erstwhile brother-in-law who was angry with her sister for leaving him, taking her children away with her; angry, because she wouldn’t stand the constant abuse and threat of death from him and her in-laws – which is pretty much a given in many Indian households.
Reshma is the youngest of the five children in her family. The eldest are two brothers, Riyaz and Aizaz, followed by three sisters Gulshan, Nargis and Reshma. They live in a chawl in Mumbai, and her father takes care of them by driving a taxi. Soon, he saves enough money to buy another taxi and becomes an entrepreneur of sorts; and with Riyaz driving another taxi, they live in the sort of genteel poverty known as “lower middle-class” in India. Their dreams are limited: education and jobs for the boys, and education and good husbands for the girls. Even Reshma has her modest dream of becoming a teacher.
The first tragedy that struck the family was the abdominal cancer of Reshma’s mother. With the kind of abysmal public health system India has, private hospitals are the only solution for serious diseases – and they are nothing short of extortionists. By the time ‘ammi’ was operated on and cured, ‘abba’ had spent nearly a fortune and had to sell both his taxis. Bankrupt, the women relocated to Mau Aima, a small village near Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh, to stay with Reshma’s paternal grandparents. The men would stay on in Mumbai to eke out a living.
Things were going on in an even keel when Gulshan’s marriage was arranged to Jamaluddin, a man from a family known to Reshma’s uncle. The family was respectable, and the groom was employed – so according to Indian tradition, the girl was lucky. Gulshan walked into the marriage as a happy bride, and when she gave birth to a boy, it seemed that her place in the family was even more secure (the giving of birth to a male heir is considered auspicious in India – and a woman who can do that is considered blessed).
But Gulshan was living in hell. Her husband was abusive (it came to light that he had criminal antecedents). Her in-laws kept on demanding more dowry. They regularly mistreated her, but she kept quiet about it, like most uneducated women in India: until it got too much. Jamaluddin lost his job, and the abuse went up a few notches until one day, in immediate danger of being burnt alive (and becoming another statistic in “dowry-death”), she said enough is enough and ran away. Her angry husband divorced her over phone saying talaq three times (the time-tested “instant-divorce” formula for Muslims!).
Things would have been all right (though unfair), had it been not for one additional demand from Jamaluddin: he demanded the custody of his son (they had a daughter too, but apparently Gulshan could keep her, as he wanted only the superior gender). Here Gulshan put her foot down and her family stood by her. Stymied, Jamaluddin kidnapped the boy from school, and Gulshan’s family had to file a police case to recover the child. After the usual procedural delays, the police finally informed them that they had recovered the child, and to come and collect him.
Gulshan was on the way to collect the child, and Reshma was accompanying her on the way to her exams, when her world came crashing down. Jamaluddin and his goons attacked them with acid. Gulshan was able to escape with minor injuries, but the criminals held Reshma down and poured acid all over her face.
Life became a nightmare from there onwards. From lying on the road for five minutes without anyone helping, with hospitals refusing to take her in without a First Information Report (FIR) from the police, to the apathy of the police officers, and government hospitals lacking the proper facilities to treat her to those that refused to do so without hefty payments, Reshma floated between sleep and wakefulness: between life and death. Her left eye was gone. Her lips were fused open. Her skull was exposed on her forehead, requiring immediate skin graft. Caught between a struggling and grieving family and a largely apathetic and occasionally antagonistic society, she contemplated and even attempted suicide multiple times. She became verbally abusive to her near and dear. And worst of all, even if she survived, her future was only darkness.
It was at this time, when Reshma was at the lowest point in her life, that the tide suddenly turned (as it often happens). A philanthropist named Vivek Shukla put her family in touch with Ria Sharma, the head of the NGO ‘Make Love Not Scars’ whose mission in life was to help acid attack victims. She arranged for Reshma to be treated by Dr. Jain, a renowned plastic surgeon, and went about crowdfunding her operations. The campaign was a huge success, and Reshma became a household name in no time.
It did not stop there. The ad agency Ogilvy and Mather did a pro bono campaign with Make Love Not Scars. Reshma was their face. She gave beauty tips on one-minute videos and ended them with an appeal to stop across-the-counter sale of acid. It was a signature campaign. It also went viral, and Reshma became the face of acid attack survivors across the world.
The #EndAcidSale campaign was a success – and so was Reshma. Shrugging aside her reticence, she walked and talked to reporters and news channels across India, even in the face of scepticism. In the process, she had to suffer one more betrayal – that of Dr. Jain, who for all his skill as a surgeon, was a selfish egoist looking out for only personal glory; he refused to have anything more to do with her as she refused to undergo surgery in front of TV cameras just to give him mileage. However, now she had become brave enough to shrug such things off.
The crowning glory came in September 2016, when Reshma walked the catwalk at the FTL Moda fashion show in New York, exhibiting Archana Kocchar’s creation. For a girl who had hoped for a modest future as a teacher, she had exceeded expectations – by a large margin.
If I were a believer, I would have said: God works in mysterious ways.
***
This memoir is not written by Reshma, of course. She does not have the necessary skill in English. It is Tania Singh, another member of Make Love Not Scars, who has faithfully copied Reshma’s experience on to the page: and I would say she has done a hell of a good job. Because I was hearing the voice of Reshma throughout as I read this. And as the narrative got more intense, I could actually feel her pain and desperation. I could also rant with her at the sorry state of my country, where the poor, the underprivileged and women are considered second-class citizens; if you happen to be a poor underprivileged woman, then you are dirt.
Throughout the many haunting images of the hospitals Reshma passed through on her journey, there are many which will twist your mind. I am sharing just one, about a woman admitted for a miscarriage – as it will become clear, induced by her husband and his family.
There was one such woman who was being treated by the hospital staff on the benefit of some woman right’s NGO. No one came to visit her and she hardly spoke. The nurses would try to speak to her and occasionally, a volunteer from the NGO would come to ask for an update and leave once all the practical matters were taken care of. She had a psychologist though. No one knows what she spoke to that psychologist about, or if she spoke at all. This young woman had been forced to get a sex-determination procedure. Her husband and father-in-law discovered that the fetus was female. They believed that it was her fault that she was pregnant with a girl child and beat her mercilessly that night.
She tried to run to the neighbors for help but her mother-in-law and sister-in-law tied her to the foot of the bed with a rope and gagged her mouth shut. That night, they beat her over and over again till she fainted. When she regained consciousness, they would beat her up again till she passed out. In time, she realized that it would be the safest to pretend to remain unconscious however when she carried on being motionless for far too long, they forced her head into water until she had to gasp for air. They then beat her up again and this cycle continued till six or seven in the morning when at last, her husband and father-in-law jumped on her stomach with their feet until she started bleeding. That’s the story of how this woman’s child was murdered by her own father. I believe in abortions, I believe in the woman’s right to choose in a safe environment, however, this level of depravity is not an abortion. It’s a murder of humanity.
I wonder – how many such women, in how many hospitals? And how many Reshmas?
***
Dear fellow Indians:
Ultimately, this is a success story – thanks to Ria and her NGO, and a plucky girl who refused to play the victim. But for one Reshma who spoke out, there are thousands without a voice: in our villages, our mohallas, and the dark alleyways in the sleazy underbellies of our glittering cities. Our politicians talk 24 x 7 about empowering women, but the ground reality is very different.
It is incumbent on us to make sure that such voices are heard. I am doing my mite through this review.
December 17, 2018
'Being Reshma’ is an incredibly powerful and eye-opening account of the life of Reshma Qureshi, an acid attack survivor who’s now a model, a vlogger, and an anti-acid activist.
I did not know about Reshma before I came across this book but I’m glad I got to read her story. It was really hard for me to get through this book as it was heart-wrenching but it was also beautiful and motivating.
In our world, where the future is unreservedly considered to be as grim as the past (if not more), we obsessively linger over the happier times.
Reshma was born and raised in a chawl in Mumbai where she lived with her parents and four siblings. Reshma, the youngest of the five children, was quirky and adventurous, a bit of a trouble-maker who had tiny dreams of her own.
Due to personal and financial issues, she had to move to Mau Aima, a small village in Uttar Pradesh with her sisters and mother. Her sister got married but came back home due to her mistreatment. Reshma was attacked as a means to get back at her sister.
This is where Reshma’s life changed forever. She explains in painful detail all the difficulties she had to face while getting treated after the incident. The refusal of people to offer help, apathetic policeman, poor facilities, and victim-blaming society made her life extremely difficult.
But, she also came across some amazing people who showed her kindness. With the help of politicians, philanthropists, and numerous other helpful people, she was able to get treated in a good hospital and underwent numerous surgeries on her face.
Through Ria Singh, she was introduced to Make Love Not Scars. She became the face of # EndAcidSale campaign that went viral and got a massive success. She started speaking up, giving interviews on the news channels and in 2016, she became the first acid-attack survivor to walk the ramp of New York fashion show.
All I did was survive and that made all the difference.
This memoir was written by Reshma with the help of Tania Singh who is the CEO of Make love Not Scars NGO as Reshma is not proficient in English. I realized I was not really ready to read this memoir. The fact that it’s based on a true incident made it all the more agonizing.
It was a detailed, first-hand account of a survivor that I had never read before. I used to hear stories in the news but it was very moving to know it from the actual person. The first half of the book is about her life before the incident and the next half is about her life after it.
I was extremely appalled and enraged at the way things turned out for her. The unfairness and helplessness of her position and the way she was treated was jarring. The crimes that are committed against women are atrocious and they keep happening all the time.
I’m glad that NGO’s like MLNS exist and they are putting a lot of efforts to help the survivors. I wish for a time when women are not seen as a property but as a living, breathing human beings who have a right to exist and have freedom and they’re respected for their choices. I hope the criminals receive strict punishment for their despicable crimes.
I was grotesque, even for hospital standards. Where did I belong if not there? I wanted to ask, but I hadn’t spoken in weeks, even though my mind was bleeding out words that were clotting in my mouth.
I was struck by Reshma’s willpower and the way she refused to give in to the circumstances. She worked through her trauma and accepted her fate and instead of hiding, she took ownership of her life and managed to turn her situation into something positive.
This story is not just about pain but it’s about conquering that pain and finding the inner voice to speak out about things that matter the most. It’s about acceptance and recognizing that there’s something bigger to look forward to and work for.
Reshma is an incredible and inspiring woman; she’s all the more beautiful because she’s a survivor and a fighter. I believe her voice and her story should be heard. I highly recommend reading this book and supporting Reshma.
I did not know about Reshma before I came across this book but I’m glad I got to read her story. It was really hard for me to get through this book as it was heart-wrenching but it was also beautiful and motivating.
In our world, where the future is unreservedly considered to be as grim as the past (if not more), we obsessively linger over the happier times.
Reshma was born and raised in a chawl in Mumbai where she lived with her parents and four siblings. Reshma, the youngest of the five children, was quirky and adventurous, a bit of a trouble-maker who had tiny dreams of her own.
Due to personal and financial issues, she had to move to Mau Aima, a small village in Uttar Pradesh with her sisters and mother. Her sister got married but came back home due to her mistreatment. Reshma was attacked as a means to get back at her sister.
This is where Reshma’s life changed forever. She explains in painful detail all the difficulties she had to face while getting treated after the incident. The refusal of people to offer help, apathetic policeman, poor facilities, and victim-blaming society made her life extremely difficult.
But, she also came across some amazing people who showed her kindness. With the help of politicians, philanthropists, and numerous other helpful people, she was able to get treated in a good hospital and underwent numerous surgeries on her face.
Through Ria Singh, she was introduced to Make Love Not Scars. She became the face of # EndAcidSale campaign that went viral and got a massive success. She started speaking up, giving interviews on the news channels and in 2016, she became the first acid-attack survivor to walk the ramp of New York fashion show.
All I did was survive and that made all the difference.
This memoir was written by Reshma with the help of Tania Singh who is the CEO of Make love Not Scars NGO as Reshma is not proficient in English. I realized I was not really ready to read this memoir. The fact that it’s based on a true incident made it all the more agonizing.
It was a detailed, first-hand account of a survivor that I had never read before. I used to hear stories in the news but it was very moving to know it from the actual person. The first half of the book is about her life before the incident and the next half is about her life after it.
I was extremely appalled and enraged at the way things turned out for her. The unfairness and helplessness of her position and the way she was treated was jarring. The crimes that are committed against women are atrocious and they keep happening all the time.
I’m glad that NGO’s like MLNS exist and they are putting a lot of efforts to help the survivors. I wish for a time when women are not seen as a property but as a living, breathing human beings who have a right to exist and have freedom and they’re respected for their choices. I hope the criminals receive strict punishment for their despicable crimes.
I was grotesque, even for hospital standards. Where did I belong if not there? I wanted to ask, but I hadn’t spoken in weeks, even though my mind was bleeding out words that were clotting in my mouth.
I was struck by Reshma’s willpower and the way she refused to give in to the circumstances. She worked through her trauma and accepted her fate and instead of hiding, she took ownership of her life and managed to turn her situation into something positive.
This story is not just about pain but it’s about conquering that pain and finding the inner voice to speak out about things that matter the most. It’s about acceptance and recognizing that there’s something bigger to look forward to and work for.
Reshma is an incredible and inspiring woman; she’s all the more beautiful because she’s a survivor and a fighter. I believe her voice and her story should be heard. I highly recommend reading this book and supporting Reshma.
December 30, 2018
Reshma’s is an amazing story, of finding purpose in life after suffering cruelty of the kind one would not imagine for anyone. Somehow, I had not followed her story before, though now I can see it was widely known and circulated.
Reshma Qureshi is one of five children born to a family in Mumbai who just about are able to make ends meet and struggle to educate the children. Her father, was a taxi driver who owned two taxis, one of which he drove himself. He is keen that his children get educated and find good jobs – which gets them more respect, money and satisfaction.
The family’s troubles start when after marriage, Reshma’s sister Gulshan suffers terrible abuse from her husband. It reaches a point when she has to return to her parents – and her husband announces a divorce shortly after. It gets worse from this point on – Gulshan’s son is kidnapped. What follows is even more horrific – with an acid attack led by Gulshan’s ex husband on her and Reshma. Reshma bears the full brunt of the attack, with the gang pouring acid on her face and body. Subsequent events make for tragic reading – a family struggling financially now trying to get around insensitive law enforcement, a tottering healthcare system, other than general apathy (Efficient & fair law enforcement, timely justice and medical care for all are key issues which sadly do not see enough public visibility or discourse).
There are nevertheless shining examples of selflessness – a cloth retailer who gifts a dress without payment, a local political leader who comes to family’s aid, some relatives and friends who stand by Reshma for months after the episode. Reshma’s life changes once she comes into contact with Ria Sharma who is just setting up her NGO “Make Love Not Scars (MLNS)”. Ria and the MLNS team stand by Reshma - they crowdsource funding so that she gets good medical care. Reshma gets over periods of depression and hopelessness to emerge stronger than ever before, and becomes the voice for women who have suffered abuse. She walks the ramp at a fashion show at New York, and has been the face of MLNS since years.
This book is very inspiring – both for Reshma’s strength & resolve, as also for the people who stood by her (her family, friends and the team at MLNS). Many parts of the book make for painful reading, and yet – if the issues highlighted in the book gain prominence in discussions, hopefully change will come, even if gradually. The book is also very honest such as covering Reshma’s bitterness in the initial months at everyone – even her own family.
This is a book I strongly recommend for reading. I received a free ebook copy of this book from the co-author Tania Singh for providing an honest review.
Reshma Qureshi is one of five children born to a family in Mumbai who just about are able to make ends meet and struggle to educate the children. Her father, was a taxi driver who owned two taxis, one of which he drove himself. He is keen that his children get educated and find good jobs – which gets them more respect, money and satisfaction.
The family’s troubles start when after marriage, Reshma’s sister Gulshan suffers terrible abuse from her husband. It reaches a point when she has to return to her parents – and her husband announces a divorce shortly after. It gets worse from this point on – Gulshan’s son is kidnapped. What follows is even more horrific – with an acid attack led by Gulshan’s ex husband on her and Reshma. Reshma bears the full brunt of the attack, with the gang pouring acid on her face and body. Subsequent events make for tragic reading – a family struggling financially now trying to get around insensitive law enforcement, a tottering healthcare system, other than general apathy (Efficient & fair law enforcement, timely justice and medical care for all are key issues which sadly do not see enough public visibility or discourse).
There are nevertheless shining examples of selflessness – a cloth retailer who gifts a dress without payment, a local political leader who comes to family’s aid, some relatives and friends who stand by Reshma for months after the episode. Reshma’s life changes once she comes into contact with Ria Sharma who is just setting up her NGO “Make Love Not Scars (MLNS)”. Ria and the MLNS team stand by Reshma - they crowdsource funding so that she gets good medical care. Reshma gets over periods of depression and hopelessness to emerge stronger than ever before, and becomes the voice for women who have suffered abuse. She walks the ramp at a fashion show at New York, and has been the face of MLNS since years.
This book is very inspiring – both for Reshma’s strength & resolve, as also for the people who stood by her (her family, friends and the team at MLNS). Many parts of the book make for painful reading, and yet – if the issues highlighted in the book gain prominence in discussions, hopefully change will come, even if gradually. The book is also very honest such as covering Reshma’s bitterness in the initial months at everyone – even her own family.
This is a book I strongly recommend for reading. I received a free ebook copy of this book from the co-author Tania Singh for providing an honest review.
November 28, 2019
It is a story of Reshma Qureshi, an acid attack survivor written by Tania Singh. In 2014, Reshma was attacked by her elder sister Gulshan's husband, Jamaluddin, and his two acquaintances. She was seventeen years old at that time and going to the exam center. Little did he know that that day will gonna change her life forever.
Born and brought up in Mumbai, Reshma lives in a chawl with his parents, two elder brothers, Riyaz, Aizaz, and sisters, Gulshan, and Nargis. Being the youngest child, she was everyone's favorite. When their mother diagnosed with a fatal disease, they all made sacrifices so that everything went smoothly, including Reshma's education. Her childhood memories were filled with good and bad recollections, but she was able to find happiness in little things.
When she was twelve, her sister Gulshan got married to Jamaluddin, they didn't know that he and his family is a narrow-minded, greedy, and abusive. Soon Gulshan was blessed with a boy, Saufi. After a few years, she gives birth to a girl, Riza. But the demand for dowry is increasing day by day. Gulshan suffers domestic violence, and at last, her parents decide that Gulshan and her children will live with them. Things were falling into the right place, but ten days before the acid attack, Jamaluddin kidnap Saufi. The family was devastated, and Jamaluddin plans an attack on Gulshan, but Reshma caught between all these.
One cannot describe the pain and suffering she endures. She didn't get the treatment for hours. The inhumane nature of doctors, nurses, and police officers disturb me. The lack of facilities, money, and laws will stand in front of Reshma, she thinks of suicide; try it on numerous occasions. She deals with PTSD and depression, in all the chaos; she finds hope and purpose through Make Love Not Scars organization. The founder of the organization Ria Sharma crowdfunded money for Reshma's treatment. A long-drawn but meaningful journey begins for Reshma; when she became the face of the #endacidsale campaign.
Although, I didn't feel that Tania Singh did justice with the novel. She wrote all about the organization's feats, but being a reader, I want to know about Reshma's family reaction when she did a ramp walk in New York. How their lives change after Reshma got global recognization?
On the day of the attack, Gulshan's hand came in the contact with acid, but no one paid any heed to her. Whether she received the treatment at all? The author didn't mention a single time; about the courtroom proceedings. Did they file a report against Jamaluddin? What was the police doing? Did they catch him or not? Did Saufi return to her mother? Did Reshma get justice? All the important questions were left unanswered like it doesn't matter.
Reading her story gives me chill, and I appreciate how brave she is. She is a courageous woman who definitely has a long way to go. I have my questions and issues with the narration, but I still think that you read this book. There are very few people who work to make a change in the world. She is one of them, she is a survivor. Her story moves my soul, and I hope she achieves everything she wants in her life.
Read more here - https://www.bookscharming.com/
Born and brought up in Mumbai, Reshma lives in a chawl with his parents, two elder brothers, Riyaz, Aizaz, and sisters, Gulshan, and Nargis. Being the youngest child, she was everyone's favorite. When their mother diagnosed with a fatal disease, they all made sacrifices so that everything went smoothly, including Reshma's education. Her childhood memories were filled with good and bad recollections, but she was able to find happiness in little things.
When she was twelve, her sister Gulshan got married to Jamaluddin, they didn't know that he and his family is a narrow-minded, greedy, and abusive. Soon Gulshan was blessed with a boy, Saufi. After a few years, she gives birth to a girl, Riza. But the demand for dowry is increasing day by day. Gulshan suffers domestic violence, and at last, her parents decide that Gulshan and her children will live with them. Things were falling into the right place, but ten days before the acid attack, Jamaluddin kidnap Saufi. The family was devastated, and Jamaluddin plans an attack on Gulshan, but Reshma caught between all these.
One cannot describe the pain and suffering she endures. She didn't get the treatment for hours. The inhumane nature of doctors, nurses, and police officers disturb me. The lack of facilities, money, and laws will stand in front of Reshma, she thinks of suicide; try it on numerous occasions. She deals with PTSD and depression, in all the chaos; she finds hope and purpose through Make Love Not Scars organization. The founder of the organization Ria Sharma crowdfunded money for Reshma's treatment. A long-drawn but meaningful journey begins for Reshma; when she became the face of the #endacidsale campaign.
Although, I didn't feel that Tania Singh did justice with the novel. She wrote all about the organization's feats, but being a reader, I want to know about Reshma's family reaction when she did a ramp walk in New York. How their lives change after Reshma got global recognization?
On the day of the attack, Gulshan's hand came in the contact with acid, but no one paid any heed to her. Whether she received the treatment at all? The author didn't mention a single time; about the courtroom proceedings. Did they file a report against Jamaluddin? What was the police doing? Did they catch him or not? Did Saufi return to her mother? Did Reshma get justice? All the important questions were left unanswered like it doesn't matter.
Reading her story gives me chill, and I appreciate how brave she is. She is a courageous woman who definitely has a long way to go. I have my questions and issues with the narration, but I still think that you read this book. There are very few people who work to make a change in the world. She is one of them, she is a survivor. Her story moves my soul, and I hope she achieves everything she wants in her life.
Read more here - https://www.bookscharming.com/
December 15, 2018
‘Perhaps if I had done all those things, I would never have been attacked with acid.’
Tania Singh has provided a history for the public of both a horrible deed as related by the victim and a paean to the courage and strength of the victim of a dastardly crime.
This is the story of Reshma Qureshi who suffered an acid attack and lived to not only share the crime but to become a spokesperson for others who undergo mutilated victims of crime. Reshma relates her history form her family and her birth through the incident that initiate this book. It is a finely tuned description of life in Mumbai and India in general – of the disparities of treatment and rights of women are shared.
The immediacy of the attack is written as follows: ‘The panic, uncertainty and shock had made me lose precious moments. Jamaluddin’s nephew and cousin grabbed me from behind, tugging at my hair through my niqab and pulled me to the ground. The men were heavy and I attempted to fight them off, attempted to claw them with my hands but my strength were at most, a feeble shadow against that of those monsters. I was, after all, only 17. At first, I opened my mouth and took in a few gasps of breath, attempting to scream but was unable to produce a sound. I believe that was my body’s way of telling me that I needed to save all my strength for the screams that would soon traumatize me for endless nights. The men got on top of me, as Jamaluddin’s cousin grabbed my hands and pulled them over my head, restraining me from fighting. Without even removing my niqab, Jamaluddin’s cousin emptied the contents of a flask he had been carrying with him all over my face. I remember wondering why they would throw warm water on my face, but that thought only lasted for a heavenly second. I wish that the embarrassment of being treated like an animal, pushed to the ground, straddled like a caged animal and having an offensive liquid thrown on my face was all I had to deal with. But within three seconds, I heard a strange, terrified, unnatural and desperate person screaming from a distance. I was on fire, and the haunting screams were erupting from my being. Even if I practiced hard, I could never again scream the way I did that day. Even the devil would cover his ears if he had had the chance to hear me. I later wondered if I should have slept in for five more minutes, worn my new burka, stayed back with my mother, turned around for my cell phone, stopped and bought the shoes or bargained for an apple. Perhaps if I had done all those things, I would never have been attacked with acid. They never even removed my niqab to look at my face.’
For an overview of the book’s tone, the synopsis helps us understand – ‘On 19 May 2014, as seventeen-year-old Reshma Qureshi left home for the examination centre, everything happened in a flash. The men rushed towards her. Grabbed her. Tugged at her hair. Poured acid on her face. Soon she started to burn like a living corpse. The acid ate through her skin and aimed for her bones, but it could not quell the fire in her heart. Rising from tragedy and suffering, Reshma soon made global headlines by becoming the first acid-attack survivor to walk the runway at the New York Fashion Week. Now an international anti-acid-sale activist, vlogger, model, and the face of Make Love Not Scars, Reshma works tirelessly towards empowering other acid-attack survivors like herself and has become a beacon of hope for millions. Inspiring and life-affirming, BEING RESHMA is the extraordinary story of this young girl from the slums of Mumbai, who overcame insurmountable odds in an unjust world and dared to change it.’
One comes away from this book educated and ready to join Reshma’s mission. This book will live in your mind.
Tania Singh has provided a history for the public of both a horrible deed as related by the victim and a paean to the courage and strength of the victim of a dastardly crime.
This is the story of Reshma Qureshi who suffered an acid attack and lived to not only share the crime but to become a spokesperson for others who undergo mutilated victims of crime. Reshma relates her history form her family and her birth through the incident that initiate this book. It is a finely tuned description of life in Mumbai and India in general – of the disparities of treatment and rights of women are shared.
The immediacy of the attack is written as follows: ‘The panic, uncertainty and shock had made me lose precious moments. Jamaluddin’s nephew and cousin grabbed me from behind, tugging at my hair through my niqab and pulled me to the ground. The men were heavy and I attempted to fight them off, attempted to claw them with my hands but my strength were at most, a feeble shadow against that of those monsters. I was, after all, only 17. At first, I opened my mouth and took in a few gasps of breath, attempting to scream but was unable to produce a sound. I believe that was my body’s way of telling me that I needed to save all my strength for the screams that would soon traumatize me for endless nights. The men got on top of me, as Jamaluddin’s cousin grabbed my hands and pulled them over my head, restraining me from fighting. Without even removing my niqab, Jamaluddin’s cousin emptied the contents of a flask he had been carrying with him all over my face. I remember wondering why they would throw warm water on my face, but that thought only lasted for a heavenly second. I wish that the embarrassment of being treated like an animal, pushed to the ground, straddled like a caged animal and having an offensive liquid thrown on my face was all I had to deal with. But within three seconds, I heard a strange, terrified, unnatural and desperate person screaming from a distance. I was on fire, and the haunting screams were erupting from my being. Even if I practiced hard, I could never again scream the way I did that day. Even the devil would cover his ears if he had had the chance to hear me. I later wondered if I should have slept in for five more minutes, worn my new burka, stayed back with my mother, turned around for my cell phone, stopped and bought the shoes or bargained for an apple. Perhaps if I had done all those things, I would never have been attacked with acid. They never even removed my niqab to look at my face.’
For an overview of the book’s tone, the synopsis helps us understand – ‘On 19 May 2014, as seventeen-year-old Reshma Qureshi left home for the examination centre, everything happened in a flash. The men rushed towards her. Grabbed her. Tugged at her hair. Poured acid on her face. Soon she started to burn like a living corpse. The acid ate through her skin and aimed for her bones, but it could not quell the fire in her heart. Rising from tragedy and suffering, Reshma soon made global headlines by becoming the first acid-attack survivor to walk the runway at the New York Fashion Week. Now an international anti-acid-sale activist, vlogger, model, and the face of Make Love Not Scars, Reshma works tirelessly towards empowering other acid-attack survivors like herself and has become a beacon of hope for millions. Inspiring and life-affirming, BEING RESHMA is the extraordinary story of this young girl from the slums of Mumbai, who overcame insurmountable odds in an unjust world and dared to change it.’
One comes away from this book educated and ready to join Reshma’s mission. This book will live in your mind.
August 24, 2020
• r e v i e w •
.
"As for those television journalists who called me inspiring yet blurred my face... Rather than accepting me for who I am, they have reinforced that I have a face I should be hiding." - Reshma Qureshi.
.
It's appalling how our laws work. After years of struggle, finally in 2013, India banned over-the-counter sale of acid but the authorities are still very lenient in keeping a check on the same. Acid is still very easily available and it is still claiming the lives of many girls and women. Reshma Qureshi was not the first girl to be doused in acid and she certainly wasn't the last one either. Reshma's memoir brought out an array of emotions ranging from shock to fury to pride. The first time I ever had the chance to read about acid attack survivors and their lives post the harrowing incidents was through Ria's book which was named after her NGO, Make Love Not Scars. It moved me deeply but reading from a survivor's point of view affected me even more. Reshma is inspiring but beyond all that, she's an epitome of courage.
.
On May 19th, 2004 Reshma and her sister, Gulshan were attacked by her brother-in-law, Jamaluddin (Gulshan's husband) and two of his cousins. They were overpowered and while Gulshan was able to dodge the acid that was aimed at her face, Reshma wasn't so lucky. While the cousins pinned her to the ground, Jamaluddin poured a stream of acid into her face without even moving the niqab. As the sisters called for help, Reshma recalls how not a single person helped them for a long time. She narrates the pain that spread across her face. First like ice and then like hellfire. Upon reaching the hospital, she was treated indifferently by the nurses who in turn sent her to the police station. The cops were no different than the doctors as they took their time in making Gulshan narrate the incident to them over and over again. Amidst all this, Reshma prayed for death to arrive.
.
Reshma who was just seventeen at the time of the attack fell into a deep abyss of depression. Her family's financial condition wasn't strong enough but everyone made sacrifices to get her treated. Luckily, Reshma came in contact with Ria and the burden of her treatment was lifted off of her shoulders. The recovery phase was a long one but Reshma was incredibly fortunate to have the support of her siblings and parents and also of her uncles and aunts. Although she encountered unpleasant people during her journey, she focused on the good samaritans who unconditionally backed her up. Through Make Love Not Scars, she met many other survivors like her which helped her in picking herself up and in turning a new leaf. Soon, she was the face of #endacidsale initiative and was recognised globally. She was interviewed internationally and even had the chance to walk the ramp for New York Fashion Week. Life didn't go according to the plan for this brave woman but she did turn it around to work in her favour. She's unapologetically bold in her memoir, calling out the system and the doctors who were negligent when it came to handling human lives and for this, I applaud her.
.
Being Reshma is the story of a young girl who is now a woman of substance and strength. Her involvement in banning acid was significant and her love for life is abundant. Not only did she escape from the jaws of death but she also managed to show the world that acid cannot erase the shine that she carries within herself. I highly recommend this. A tale of inspiration and humanity.
.
Rating : 4.8/5.
.
"As for those television journalists who called me inspiring yet blurred my face... Rather than accepting me for who I am, they have reinforced that I have a face I should be hiding." - Reshma Qureshi.
.
It's appalling how our laws work. After years of struggle, finally in 2013, India banned over-the-counter sale of acid but the authorities are still very lenient in keeping a check on the same. Acid is still very easily available and it is still claiming the lives of many girls and women. Reshma Qureshi was not the first girl to be doused in acid and she certainly wasn't the last one either. Reshma's memoir brought out an array of emotions ranging from shock to fury to pride. The first time I ever had the chance to read about acid attack survivors and their lives post the harrowing incidents was through Ria's book which was named after her NGO, Make Love Not Scars. It moved me deeply but reading from a survivor's point of view affected me even more. Reshma is inspiring but beyond all that, she's an epitome of courage.
.
On May 19th, 2004 Reshma and her sister, Gulshan were attacked by her brother-in-law, Jamaluddin (Gulshan's husband) and two of his cousins. They were overpowered and while Gulshan was able to dodge the acid that was aimed at her face, Reshma wasn't so lucky. While the cousins pinned her to the ground, Jamaluddin poured a stream of acid into her face without even moving the niqab. As the sisters called for help, Reshma recalls how not a single person helped them for a long time. She narrates the pain that spread across her face. First like ice and then like hellfire. Upon reaching the hospital, she was treated indifferently by the nurses who in turn sent her to the police station. The cops were no different than the doctors as they took their time in making Gulshan narrate the incident to them over and over again. Amidst all this, Reshma prayed for death to arrive.
.
Reshma who was just seventeen at the time of the attack fell into a deep abyss of depression. Her family's financial condition wasn't strong enough but everyone made sacrifices to get her treated. Luckily, Reshma came in contact with Ria and the burden of her treatment was lifted off of her shoulders. The recovery phase was a long one but Reshma was incredibly fortunate to have the support of her siblings and parents and also of her uncles and aunts. Although she encountered unpleasant people during her journey, she focused on the good samaritans who unconditionally backed her up. Through Make Love Not Scars, she met many other survivors like her which helped her in picking herself up and in turning a new leaf. Soon, she was the face of #endacidsale initiative and was recognised globally. She was interviewed internationally and even had the chance to walk the ramp for New York Fashion Week. Life didn't go according to the plan for this brave woman but she did turn it around to work in her favour. She's unapologetically bold in her memoir, calling out the system and the doctors who were negligent when it came to handling human lives and for this, I applaud her.
.
Being Reshma is the story of a young girl who is now a woman of substance and strength. Her involvement in banning acid was significant and her love for life is abundant. Not only did she escape from the jaws of death but she also managed to show the world that acid cannot erase the shine that she carries within herself. I highly recommend this. A tale of inspiration and humanity.
.
Rating : 4.8/5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2019
Journey of Reshma from a carefree child to an acid attack survivor and then working as a crusader and spreading awareness for the cause. Well written book by Tania. Wish you all the best with your organisation Make love not scars.
December 18, 2018
Reshma's story is heart wrenching yet inspirational. Very well written..
August 2, 2019
Definitely an interesting, inspiring as well as eye opening read. I just wish that the author would have dedicated some pages to explaining what happened to her attackers.
December 25, 2019
It requires some courage to read this book top to bottom. To be honest I didn't had that courage at some pages or other
Hats off to Reshma and her will power
Hats off to Reshma and her will power
Read
July 12, 2020Made me cry. Tugged at all the last shreds of my humanity. But left me feeling so hopeful, and so resolute. Cannot rate this book as one cannot really rate Reshma's life story. What an inspiring warrior.
January 20, 2019
"Finding the right shade of lipstick is harder than finding concentrated acid."
"Why is a litre of concentrated acid sold cheaper than a 9 ml eyeliner?"
"It takes 2 minutes to put on blush but only 3 seconds to scar a face."
Being Reshma is a heart-wrenching, powerful account of a 19-year-old acid attack survivor. Whilst I was reading it, I did experience a journey of conflicting emotions. This book is an extraordinary memoir of a girl who had once considered killing herself but took the world by storm. And as for the author, Tania Singh, she has described every event of Reshma's life in a way that makes this book a compelling read. There are pictures of Reshma before and after attack, and also when she walked the New York Fashion Week runway.
The book is not just about Reshma but each and every acid attack survivor. It's a beacon of hope to millions to help end this gruesome act. It's about a powerful movement for change.
#endacidsale #makelovenotscars
"Why is a litre of concentrated acid sold cheaper than a 9 ml eyeliner?"
"It takes 2 minutes to put on blush but only 3 seconds to scar a face."
Being Reshma is a heart-wrenching, powerful account of a 19-year-old acid attack survivor. Whilst I was reading it, I did experience a journey of conflicting emotions. This book is an extraordinary memoir of a girl who had once considered killing herself but took the world by storm. And as for the author, Tania Singh, she has described every event of Reshma's life in a way that makes this book a compelling read. There are pictures of Reshma before and after attack, and also when she walked the New York Fashion Week runway.
The book is not just about Reshma but each and every acid attack survivor. It's a beacon of hope to millions to help end this gruesome act. It's about a powerful movement for change.
#endacidsale #makelovenotscars
December 27, 2018
An acid attack is, in my opinion, one of the most heinous and damaging crimes against women.
This book impacted me deeply, and I am glad I got the chance to read it.
It is an extremely personal narrative of Reshma’s growing up years. The conversational tone helps keep it light and friendly – as if you’re chatting with her over the phone or messenger. I gather this is the outcome of her comfort level and interactions with Tania Singh, her co-writer for this book. Full kudos to both Reshma and Tania for keeping the tone conversational and informal on a subject that is this tragic and unnerving.
Read full review here - https://wanderingsoulwriter.com/2018/...
This book impacted me deeply, and I am glad I got the chance to read it.
It is an extremely personal narrative of Reshma’s growing up years. The conversational tone helps keep it light and friendly – as if you’re chatting with her over the phone or messenger. I gather this is the outcome of her comfort level and interactions with Tania Singh, her co-writer for this book. Full kudos to both Reshma and Tania for keeping the tone conversational and informal on a subject that is this tragic and unnerving.
Read full review here - https://wanderingsoulwriter.com/2018/...
December 24, 2018
This is an honest account of acid attack survivor - Reshma. She was unfortunately at the wrong place at the wrong time, and inspite of being innocent, she had to suffer.
The book portrays her journey from being a young 17 years old carefree girl to an acid attack survivor. I cried alot while reading.
The book portrays her journey from being a young 17 years old carefree girl to an acid attack survivor. I cried alot while reading.
March 9, 2019
A very inspiring read.
The account of the road to survival is harrowing but at the same time how Reshma fights back and finds a purpose in her life is very inspiring.
A must read
The account of the road to survival is harrowing but at the same time how Reshma fights back and finds a purpose in her life is very inspiring.
A must read
April 5, 2019
A heart-touching real life story of an acid attack survivor in India. The simple and candid writing makes it a quick read. Finished reading this book in one day.
July 25, 2019
Must read for indians. An emotional journey of a fighter
January 31, 2020
Narrative story of acid attacked survivor is very very heart touching.
November 8, 2020
4.25 stars!
I'm rather speechless at the moment after reading this book, of Reshma's ordeal and of her rising back up and gloriously so. I liked the narration and appreciate the way Tania Singh is generous with the details where it needs to be and not much so where it isn't required.
I appreciate that it might be the family's decision to step back but a couple of things I'd have loved to read about: What was her family's reaction when all the adulation came her way? How did Gulshan cope with it, since she was affected as well? And did the criminal (I won't use any other word for that sorry excuse of a man) get jailed for what he did?
I do understand why it might not have been mentioned but to not mention it even in passing gives it an impersonal lens that insinuates that the people who were so important in Reshma's life didn't figure in the times when she made such a difference.
But on the whole, an eye-opener in its own strength! Must read!
I'm rather speechless at the moment after reading this book, of Reshma's ordeal and of her rising back up and gloriously so. I liked the narration and appreciate the way Tania Singh is generous with the details where it needs to be and not much so where it isn't required.
I appreciate that it might be the family's decision to step back but a couple of things I'd have loved to read about: What was her family's reaction when all the adulation came her way? How did Gulshan cope with it, since she was affected as well? And did the criminal (I won't use any other word for that sorry excuse of a man) get jailed for what he did?
I do understand why it might not have been mentioned but to not mention it even in passing gives it an impersonal lens that insinuates that the people who were so important in Reshma's life didn't figure in the times when she made such a difference.
But on the whole, an eye-opener in its own strength! Must read!
June 7, 2020
"Being Reshma" is a incredibly emotional and powerfully eye-opening story of Reshma Qureshi, an acid attack survivor who's now a Model, a Vlogger and an Anti-Acid Sale Activist.
This book lets us know Reshma Qureshi from the time of her early youth to how Reshma overcame her struggles to become a powerful voice for several acid survivors and an inspiration for many.
Reshma is the youngest girl in her family. She grew up with her brothers and sisters in a conservative household in Mumbai.
When her family finds it hard to live in Mumbai anymore, they shift to live in their ancestral home located at Allahabad. That is where that heartbreaking event took place and which changed Reshma’s life forever.
In May 2014, while going out for an examination, 17-year-old Reshma got acid thrown on her face by her sister Gulshan’s former husband Jamaluddin. It was a classic act of revenge. Her entire face was burned and when she was taken to hospital, but didn't get proper attention from the authorities there. The police, too, behaved indifferently. From then, she began to face a series of callous behaviours from everywhere.
But, like us………. She didn't capitulate.
But, not like us…….She did start to fight life and society. She did take power from her powerlessness.
Then…..
In 2015, Reshma participated in a campaign called #endacidsale that comes with three videos giving beauty tips.
In 2016, She went on to make global headlines by becoming the first acid attack survivor to walk the runway at the New York Fashion Week.
Now, she is an Indian model, vlogger, and anti-acid sale activist. She is the face of Make Love Not Scars, an NGO that works towards rehabilitating and empowering acid-attack survivors.
When we talk about Reshma's journey, we also need to mention two other strong women—Ria Sharma, founder of Make Love Not Scars (an NGO that helps in the rehabilitation of acid attack survivors), and Tania Singh, its CEO - these two women supported her a lot in her success. We have a lot to learn - From Reshma -- How to raise up from those tragedies in our life? From Tani and Ria -- How to be part of someone's life by helping them to raise up from those tragedies happened in their life.
Being Reshma", is a compelling read for more than one reason. Really, this memoir touched every corner of my heart deeply. I am a midnight reader and started reading this memoir around and completed it around 2'clock or less. But after reading this, I didn't sleep that whole night because I was that disturbed about...about .. I don't why so? about what? But I really want to meet her one day because she is that much great to me. Really Really Really she is a heroine.
I highly recommend this story "Being Reshma". There is a lot to learn from her life and her attitude towards life.
This book lets us know Reshma Qureshi from the time of her early youth to how Reshma overcame her struggles to become a powerful voice for several acid survivors and an inspiration for many.
Reshma is the youngest girl in her family. She grew up with her brothers and sisters in a conservative household in Mumbai.
When her family finds it hard to live in Mumbai anymore, they shift to live in their ancestral home located at Allahabad. That is where that heartbreaking event took place and which changed Reshma’s life forever.
In May 2014, while going out for an examination, 17-year-old Reshma got acid thrown on her face by her sister Gulshan’s former husband Jamaluddin. It was a classic act of revenge. Her entire face was burned and when she was taken to hospital, but didn't get proper attention from the authorities there. The police, too, behaved indifferently. From then, she began to face a series of callous behaviours from everywhere.
But, like us………. She didn't capitulate.
But, not like us…….She did start to fight life and society. She did take power from her powerlessness.
Then…..
In 2015, Reshma participated in a campaign called #endacidsale that comes with three videos giving beauty tips.
In 2016, She went on to make global headlines by becoming the first acid attack survivor to walk the runway at the New York Fashion Week.
Now, she is an Indian model, vlogger, and anti-acid sale activist. She is the face of Make Love Not Scars, an NGO that works towards rehabilitating and empowering acid-attack survivors.
When we talk about Reshma's journey, we also need to mention two other strong women—Ria Sharma, founder of Make Love Not Scars (an NGO that helps in the rehabilitation of acid attack survivors), and Tania Singh, its CEO - these two women supported her a lot in her success. We have a lot to learn - From Reshma -- How to raise up from those tragedies in our life? From Tani and Ria -- How to be part of someone's life by helping them to raise up from those tragedies happened in their life.
Being Reshma", is a compelling read for more than one reason. Really, this memoir touched every corner of my heart deeply. I am a midnight reader and started reading this memoir around and completed it around 2'clock or less. But after reading this, I didn't sleep that whole night because I was that disturbed about...about .. I don't why so? about what? But I really want to meet her one day because she is that much great to me. Really Really Really she is a heroine.
I highly recommend this story "Being Reshma". There is a lot to learn from her life and her attitude towards life.
March 14, 2020
"Being Reshma"
Author:- Reshma Qureshi and Tania Singh
Genre:- Non-Fiction
Page:- 230
Format:- Paperback
Publication:- Pan Macmillan
Rating:- 5/5 🌟
It's a Acid attack survivor Biography and this is really harsh and hit read for us as a society.
Reshma Qureshi a 17 year old girl going for the exam. But destiny have some other plans for her, yaa she is the first Acid attack survivor to walk the runway at the New-York Fashion week.
She is the core reason who force government to stop open acid sale in india.
She is the face of 'To make love not Scars' and International Anti-Acid-Sale activist.
Her story inspires and at the same time pouring acid on our thick social skin.
This Biography is parted in 18 chapter from childhood days as a innocent girl who did only one mistake she exchange her gold anklet for 5 Rupee Cream Biscuit yaa it's a foolish thing but she did.
Chapter 3 is where everything start molding in different scenario, Where the cruel reality of world is at eye level.
Chapter 12 where you will see a ray of sunshine and rise of this new shining start Reshma.
Note:-
Language is luc and easy yet emotional.
The way Reshma explain everything in details is really worth reading.
The way author portraits both side of coin is really gorgeous.
This is something we all have to read as a individual or as a part of society.
Her story play a vital role in international community change view point about acid attack survivor.
Author:- Reshma Qureshi and Tania Singh
Genre:- Non-Fiction
Page:- 230
Format:- Paperback
Publication:- Pan Macmillan
Rating:- 5/5 🌟
It's a Acid attack survivor Biography and this is really harsh and hit read for us as a society.
Reshma Qureshi a 17 year old girl going for the exam. But destiny have some other plans for her, yaa she is the first Acid attack survivor to walk the runway at the New-York Fashion week.
She is the core reason who force government to stop open acid sale in india.
She is the face of 'To make love not Scars' and International Anti-Acid-Sale activist.
Her story inspires and at the same time pouring acid on our thick social skin.
This Biography is parted in 18 chapter from childhood days as a innocent girl who did only one mistake she exchange her gold anklet for 5 Rupee Cream Biscuit yaa it's a foolish thing but she did.
Chapter 3 is where everything start molding in different scenario, Where the cruel reality of world is at eye level.
Chapter 12 where you will see a ray of sunshine and rise of this new shining start Reshma.
Note:-
Language is luc and easy yet emotional.
The way Reshma explain everything in details is really worth reading.
The way author portraits both side of coin is really gorgeous.
This is something we all have to read as a individual or as a part of society.
Her story play a vital role in international community change view point about acid attack survivor.
May 5, 2019
Reshma Bano Qureshi is an Indian model, vlogger, and anti-acid activist. She was only 17 when she was attacked with acid by her brother in law. Being Reshma is her story. It's a hauntingly heart-wrenching account of a woman who managed to survive and thrive despite all odds.
Reshma's story includes devastating accounts of medical negligence, mental health issues like PTSD and depression, surgical ordeals and a general lack of apathy amongst masses and professionals both.
It also talks of hope, perseverance and paragons of virtue. Therefore, Being Reshma covers both the best of humanity and its worst.
This book is important also because it has done an amazing job at educating people about acid attacks. It's evident that Tania Singh has painstakingly recorded all aspects of the aftermath of an acid attack.
Being Reshma's honest and candid voice, relevant message and strong content make it a memorable book.
I had the privilege of meeting and interviewing Tania Singh and Reshma Qureshi at Majha House in March. Reshma has the warmest smile.
Newsflash: A litre of concentrated acid is cheaper than a 9 ml eyeliner.
India has the highest incidence of acid attacks in the world.
It's high time we hold ourselves and our government accountable.
Reshma's story includes devastating accounts of medical negligence, mental health issues like PTSD and depression, surgical ordeals and a general lack of apathy amongst masses and professionals both.
It also talks of hope, perseverance and paragons of virtue. Therefore, Being Reshma covers both the best of humanity and its worst.
This book is important also because it has done an amazing job at educating people about acid attacks. It's evident that Tania Singh has painstakingly recorded all aspects of the aftermath of an acid attack.
Being Reshma's honest and candid voice, relevant message and strong content make it a memorable book.
I had the privilege of meeting and interviewing Tania Singh and Reshma Qureshi at Majha House in March. Reshma has the warmest smile.
Newsflash: A litre of concentrated acid is cheaper than a 9 ml eyeliner.
India has the highest incidence of acid attacks in the world.
It's high time we hold ourselves and our government accountable.
January 7, 2019
Being Reshma is an inspirational book for acid-attack survivors. It is a very emotional story a must-read to know about the hardship that acid-attack survivors go through each day. The book may also lead to the government funding hospitals for cleanliness and equipment. It is also my wish that survivors like Reshma must be treated as a normal part of today. The book deals with-the lack of basic needs for the poor, lack of good people in the society, dowry systems, acid selling, hygiene in hospitals, bribery in the hospitals and so on. It is a great read for those who want to learn about the society. The society - as I felt after reading the book - has both good and bad people. The bad ones help us know that there is good around us. One must know to distinguish from good and bad in the first meet or our fate will be just like that of Gulshan (Read the story to know who Gulshan is and what led to the change of a series of events).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2019
A story of indomitable spirit
I cannot review this book, because her life cannot and should not be reviewed.
I am not sure if I should applause or abhor the duplicity of human nature. We can find the demon in us to throw acid on someone. We can also find the strength in us to rise above such atrocities to help ourselves and others recover. Healers can be demons and strangers can be angels.
What is commendable is human spirit. It has the capacity to rise like a phoenix from the ashes. It has the capacity to find hope in grim and it has the generosity to help others deal with their hopelessness.
She is an absolute inspiration.
I cannot review this book, because her life cannot and should not be reviewed.
I am not sure if I should applause or abhor the duplicity of human nature. We can find the demon in us to throw acid on someone. We can also find the strength in us to rise above such atrocities to help ourselves and others recover. Healers can be demons and strangers can be angels.
What is commendable is human spirit. It has the capacity to rise like a phoenix from the ashes. It has the capacity to find hope in grim and it has the generosity to help others deal with their hopelessness.
She is an absolute inspiration.
July 19, 2019
this is not a book, its the display of shocking facts about Indian society in 2014. This is a must-read one which will definitely bring tears in your eyes. actually, books like these is a realization of how brutally women are treated in our country. but such books are rarely happening or the majority of the victims of the social atrocities are not in a state to write one. Reshma's will power is s stepping stone which will bring many women to stand on their feet. the support by her family, and the hardships they had taken for her, the support from Make Love Not Scars are those which can help those affected sisters back to life.
July 5, 2020
An epitome of strength : Reshma Qureshi
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"Each time a woman stands for herself, she stands up for all women".
- Maya Angelou
Being reshma, the extraordinary story of an acid attack survivor who took the world by storm is a book which deserves to be read multiple times because other than the inspirational side of this strong woman, this book will make you think about the lethargic and the irresponsible system of our nation.
For the detailed review you can also visit - https://dontbignorant.in/an-epitome-o...
--------------------------------------------------------------------
"Each time a woman stands for herself, she stands up for all women".
- Maya Angelou
Being reshma, the extraordinary story of an acid attack survivor who took the world by storm is a book which deserves to be read multiple times because other than the inspirational side of this strong woman, this book will make you think about the lethargic and the irresponsible system of our nation.
For the detailed review you can also visit - https://dontbignorant.in/an-epitome-o...
January 21, 2019
I think everyone must read this truly inspiring book that makes you realise how life can change in a second ,and thus how we as human beings must be grateful and appreciate every living moment .I salute all the acid attack survivors as it takes tremendous courage to go through this horrific ordeal and survive to share your ordeal with the world .The #endacidsale is a brilliant advert with a strong message . I would like to say that Reshma you truly are a beacon of hope for all people who have lost hope ,God Bless You 🙏🏽
August 16, 2019
Sometimes, the bravest of characters are born out of the gravest tragedies. While some live to share their experience, most cave in to death or to the pressure of societal shame / disownment.
'Being Reshma' is a heart wrenching account of an acid survivor in Reshma Qureshi. Reading her battle got me welled up but left with so many questions, unanswered.
Please do not shy away from reading this haunted yet a triumphant account of a braveheart. She got up when she couldn't! 📚
'Being Reshma' is a heart wrenching account of an acid survivor in Reshma Qureshi. Reading her battle got me welled up but left with so many questions, unanswered.
Please do not shy away from reading this haunted yet a triumphant account of a braveheart. She got up when she couldn't! 📚
September 17, 2019
I was already reading another book when I purchased this book from a store. But couldn't resist the urge of starting today book - Being Reshma - because I knew it was true and it would be intense. Once I started reading it, I continued non-stop.
I can't express in words how deeply I'm touched by every incident narrated in this book. I feel extremely proud of Reshma for everything that she has achieved since then. It gave me inspiration and hope.
Please give it a read
I can't express in words how deeply I'm touched by every incident narrated in this book. I feel extremely proud of Reshma for everything that she has achieved since then. It gave me inspiration and hope.
Please give it a read
July 6, 2019
Few books are eloquently written on a topic that only few can grasp the gravity of. Tania and Reshma have pulled off a wonderful feat in this book and given us a holistic welcome to the world of acid attack survivors and the state of India and its women. This book is gripping and hard to forget but ensures that by the end of its last chapters one knows hope and love
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