A Muslim woman’s daily routine is upended when a comment from her father makes her doubt her faith, leading her to seek comfort and clarity in Allah.

Assalamu alaikum / Hi there! My name is Aneesa Siddiqua, and I am a film student!

Khushu is my junior thesis film that explores the experience of always evaluating oneself to prove one's worth, while showing how small moments or remarks from others can create self-doubt.

Growing up, I always knew the hijab was mandatory, but I was never really told about its significance and the beautiful meaning behind it. As I began reconnecting with Islam after a spiritual awakening, as I like to call it, the idea of wearing the hijab out in public scared me. I thought it might have been because of the hate I’d receive or the changes I’d undergo. However, the real reason ended up being that I felt like I wasn’t worthy of putting on the hijab because I wasn’t a “perfect” Muslim. I am currently in a constant battle with wanting to wear the hijab, but having outside forces comment on the very thing I’m struggling with makes it difficult.

However, making this film might be just what it takes to end that battle. Telling this story might not only help me, but also other young Muslim women realize that they are not alone in the process and that their best is good enough.

I am so excited to be working with an incredible crew and cast, but I will need your help doing so! Any donations will support all expenses in making this film. What are those costs, you may ask? The money raised will go towards:

Every donation, no matter how small, will go a long way, and public donors will be credited at the end of my film (anonymous donors will not be credited out of respect for their privacy)! If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing my GoFundMe with others!

If you're interested in seeing my work, you can find it here!

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for your support! Take care! :)