Azaadi, or ‘freedom’, represents a woman’s right to choose, and to live by the choices she makes. So what happens when you aren’t allowed to choose? When your childhood, education, worklife and self-determined future are forbidden due to your gender?

In the conflict-torn and highly militarised region of Kashmir, ‘Azaadi’ can mean different things to different people. For one woman, it could mean expressing her innermost thoughts without the fear of punishment. For another, it could mean studying the subjects of her choice, or going out with friends without being harassed. It could also mean being able to wear make-up, or certain clothes; even to to read whatever one likes.

This anthology of essays by women from the three main regions of Indian-administered-Kashmir—Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh—explores what Azaadi means in a country where basic rights for women are forbidden.