My sister Nasreen once filled our home with her beautiful voice. However, she stopped singing when pressured to marry Mohammad. Over the years, Nasreen dedicated herself to being an excellent wife and mother. Yet, Mohammad primarily saw his role as working outside the home, leaving Nasreen longing for the simple joys and affections of married life. When Hana was born, Nasreen confided in me, “I’m growing old, and I’m terrified. My only achievement in life is being the mother of two kids.” I sensed a significant change in her. She decided to pursue her lifelong passion for singing, even though singing in public is forbidden for women in Iran.

Mohammad’s absence and lack of support frustrated Nasreen, leading to many arguments. My mom and our younger sister did their best to protect Nasreen’s marriage; we were all concerned about her future. Over seven years of filming Nasreen, I closely witnessed her journey to free her voice as a singer and a woman. From a vulnerable homemaker, she gradually transformed into a woman in control of her own destiny. Nasreen’s emancipation has inspired fundamental change for her children, for me, my younger sister, our mother, and hopefully for our country.