Purdah (Urdu, Persian: پردہ) (also transliterated as 'purda') is the practice of requiring women to cover their bodies so as to cover their skin and conceal their form.
It is prevalent in Islamic societies, but is observed by several other communities in the Indian subcontinent. The usual garment worn to accomplish this is termed a burqa, which may or may not include a veil to conceal the face, a yashmak . The eyes may or may not be exposed.

Purdah was rigorously observed under regimes such as that of the Taliban in Afghanistan, where women had to observe complete purdah at any time they were in public. Only their husbands, fathers, children and other women were allowed to see them out of purdah. In other societies, purdah may only be practiced during certain times of religious significance.

In historically Islamic Arab countries, such as Saudi Arabia, purdah has more cultural than religious significance, being a custom. Even in the United Arab Emirates, where women can wear skirts and similar modest garments, Arab women often observe purdah.

A form of purdah is also seen in other religions such as Christianity and Judaism - it is not unknown for certain Christian and Jewish denominations to require women to be 'covered' whilst worshipping.

Other meanings

• Purdah also means "Curtain" in [Persian].
• In colloquial English, 'purdah' is used as a synonym for isolation.
• Purdah is used by the UK Chancellor Of The Exchequer to refer to the period after plans have been prepared but before his annual budget is announced when he refrains from discussing any matters which have relevance to the forthcoming budget.

See Also

Hijab