: Those Piercing, Unforgettable Eyes

With a expressing as compelling as the Mona Lisa’s, the hitherto unknown woman in Steve McCurry’s famous 1985 National Geographic cover photo has been as elusive as peace in the wartorn region. Various rumors had surfaced about her fate, including death during childbirth in 1992. But after a long search by McCurry (he forgot to get the girl’s name when he took the picture), Sharbat Gula has been found. McCurry made it a point to see that she was aware of the iconic stature she achieved and that any needs of hers were taken care of. In addition to her children’s education, her biggest wish will be granted – a trip to Mecca for Hajj.

Zahed Amanullah is associate editor of altmuslim.com.  He is based in London, England.