How do I navigate life in India as a practicing Muslimah?
Assalamualaikum everyone, I’m a practicing Muslimah from West Bengal. Physically things are not as violent here as in some places, but the online and social pressure is constant. People I know - classmates, coworkers, acquaintances - often share posts saying Islam teaches hatred or violence against innocents. I usually avoid getting into public arguments, but seeing this all the time wears me down. Even some close friends have started questioning my choice to practice more fully. I get made to feel guilty or backward for covering my head, for avoiding explicit content, or for not taking part in certain kinds of entertainment. That’s pushed me to pull away and I’m feeling pretty isolated. Finding other practicing sisters as an adult in a largely secular setting is really difficult. My biggest worry is the professional side. I fear that prejudice, whether open or subtle, is closing doors and that my education and skills might be overlooked because of my faith. It’s discouraging and stressful. I’m not trying to start a fight - I just want to hear from others who are balancing faith, work, and social life as a minority. How do you cope, stay grounded in your deen, and keep moving forward without compromising who you are? JazakAllahu khair.