After years of wearing trousers and bikinis, partying and drinking alcohol, 29-year-old Maha now wears an Islamic veil and says she has never been happier. Encouraged by an Islamic revival and a rise in religious programmes on Arab channels, Maha and a growing number of women among Egypt’s wealthier classes have augmented their Western wardrobes with variations on the veil, or hijab, such as colourful scarves and long shirts.Conservative robes and veils have been part of culture in Egypt’s rural and poorer areas for centuries. But the veil is now on the rise among the country’s urban and traditionally liberal classes, who a few decades ago wore daring mini-skirts and strapless tops.‘‘Ever since I veiled and learned more about Islam I’ve become less angry and have more patience,’’ said Maha, an office administrator.Egypt, unlike other Muslim states Saudi Arabia and Iran, does not require women to wear a veil. Those who choose to cover up live and work side by side with unveiled women and their male colleagues.Why more young women are choosing to wear the veil is the subject of much debate. Some seem to bow to peer pressure in a society where overt signs of modesty are considered a virtue — even if coupled with heavy make-up and jewellery. Others say they want to avoid harassment.‘‘For some poor people who live in nasty neighbourhoods, the veil protects women because it sends a message that they’re conservative and not easy prey,’’ said sociologist Hania Sholkamy. Others are inspired by a more austere message from conservative Islamic preachers who spread their beliefs via satellite TV. (Reuters)
