Bangladesh acid survivors walk the ramp to fight discrimination

Acid attack survivors in Bangladesh took to the catwalk to challenge conventional beauty standards on the eve of International Women’s Day. (Mohammad Ponir Hossain / REUTERS)

Updated on: Mar 09, 2017 11:09 AM IST

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Acid attack survivors in Bangladesh took to the catwalk to challenge conventional beauty standards on the eve of International Women’s Day. (Mohammad Ponir Hossain / REUTERS)

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The models, including three men, walked the catwalk, dancing and singing and showcasing woven handloom Bangladeshi designs. The show was choreographed by local designer Bibi Russel. (Mohammad Ponir Hossain / REUTERS)

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The women took part in a fashion show, ‘Beauty Redefined’, which was organised by ActionAid. (AFP)

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Survivors of acid attacks blazed through a unique fashion show in an effort to smash the conservative country's social prejudices about the victims. (Mohammad Ponir Hossain / REUTERS)

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A Bangladeshi acid attack survivor gets her make up applied . (Mohammad Ponir Hossain / REUTERS)

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Organizers said they hoped to highlight the fact that acid victims, too often overlooked, are a vital part of society. (A.M.Ahad / AP)

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Acid attacks are still rampant in Bangladesh, with 44 incidents being reported in the country in 2016. (Mohammad Ponir Hossain / REUTERS)

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Acid attack survivors walk on the ramp during the fashion show . (Mohammad Ponir Hossain / REUTERS)

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A Bangladeshi acid attack survivor getting ready for the fashion show . (AFP)

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Bangladesh has struggled to deal with acid attacks in recent decades, and has instituted harsh punishments for the perpetrators, including the death penalty. (AFP)

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Fashion designer and former model Bibi Russell planned the show and said the idea was to break gender stereotypes and highlight the “sparkle” and “beauty” of survivors despite their physical scars. (AFP)

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A Bangladeshi acid attack survivor has her makeup done backstage prior to the fashion show . (AFP)

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Acid attacks are an issue throughout South Asia, with a large number of cases reported in India, Afghanistan and Pakistan. (A.M.Ahad / AP)