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Journalism of Courage
While many women would give their right arm to have long hair, Fatima Sana Shaikh didn’t think twice before chopping her locks for the Aamir Khan-starrer Dangal. “I had long hair. I cut it during Dangal. Mine were really long. They (production) had informed me initially only that the hair had to be cut. At that point in time, I wanted to cut my hair. I wanted really short hair at least once,” shared Fatima.
When quizzed about how she felt after her hair was cut, Fatima said, “As a girl, you use your hair as part of your shringaar (beauty); you open and flaunt it. But if there is none, you can’t do that.”
Psychologist Amanpreet Kaur, founder of Psyeducation, concurred that hair is more than a physical attribute; it plays a significant role in self-perception, identity, and societal expectations.
“Long hair has historically been associated with femininity, beauty, and personal worth for many women. From an early age, cultural narratives reinforce that long, flowing hair symbolizes grace and desirability. As a result, deciding to cut it short can feel like more than just a style change; it can represent a shift in identity and self-expression,” shared Kaur.
While some may find the change exhilarating and empowering, others might struggle with the adjustment, particularly if they have long associated their femininity with length. However, short hair carries its psychological significance.
Kaur described that it is frequently linked to confidence, independence, and reinvention. “Many women describe cutting their hair as a transformative experience, letting go of societal expectations and embracing a more self-defined sense of beauty. In industries where appearance shapes perception, a drastic hair change can serve as a statement, challenging conventional standards and redefining personal and professional identity,” Kaur explained.
Ultimately, beauty is not dictated by hair length but by self-assurance and authenticity. Confidence is the defining factor in any style. “Whether long or short, the key is to embrace change with a sense of ownership and comfort, reinforcing the idea that identity is shaped from within rather than by external perceptions,” said Kaur.
