Far from home: Rohingya families mark Eid in Indonesia

In a makeshift shelter in western Indonesia, a group of Rohingya refugees have found a way to maintain their dignity and sense of self amidst the harsh realities of their displacement. Despite the difficult conditions they face, these refugees have taken to grooming themselves meticulously, with men styling their hair with gel and women donning vibrant hijabs and makeup.

The Rohingya people, a Muslim minority group from Myanmar, have been facing persecution and violence for decades. In recent years, the situation has escalated, forcing thousands to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighboring countries. Many have ended up in Indonesia, where they live in overcrowded and under-resourced shelters.

But despite the challenges they face, the Rohingya refugees have not lost their sense of pride and self-worth. In fact, they have found a way to express themselves and maintain a sense of normalcy through their grooming rituals.

For the men, styling their hair with gel has become a way to feel put-together and presentable. In a world where they have lost everything, this small act of grooming gives them a sense of control and confidence. It also allows them to maintain a sense of identity, as they hold on to their cultural traditions and customs.

Similarly, the women have found solace in donning vibrant hijabs and applying makeup. In a society where women are often judged by their appearance, these refugees have found a way to reclaim their beauty and femininity. Despite the difficult circumstances, they refuse to let go of their sense of self and continue to take pride in their appearance.

But it’s not just about looking good. For these refugees, grooming is also a way to prepare for a better future. Many of them dream of being resettled in a new country, where they can start a new life. And in order to make a good impression and increase their chances of being accepted, they want to look their best.

In fact, some of the refugees have even started small businesses within the shelter, offering haircuts and makeup services to their fellow refugees. This not only provides them with a source of income, but also allows them to use their skills and talents to help others.

The makeshift shelter in western Indonesia may not be the most ideal place to live, but the Rohingya refugees have managed to create a sense of community and support within its walls. Through their grooming rituals, they have found a way to uplift each other and maintain a sense of hope for the future.

Their resilience and determination in the face of adversity is truly inspiring. Despite all the challenges they have faced, they refuse to let go of their dignity and self-worth. And in a world where refugees are often portrayed as helpless and dependent, the Rohingya refugees in Indonesia are proving that they are so much more than that.

As we continue to hear stories of the struggles and hardships faced by refugees around the world, it’s important to also highlight the strength and resilience of these individuals. The Rohingya refugees in Indonesia are a shining example of this, and their grooming rituals serve as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always room for hope and self-expression.

In conclusion, the makeshift shelter in western Indonesia may not be a glamorous place, but it is a place where the Rohingya refugees have found a way to maintain their dignity and sense of self through grooming. Their determination and resilience in the face of adversity is truly admirable, and serves as a reminder that even in the most difficult of circumstances, the human spirit can prevail.