"It takes all kinds to make a world.” - Proverb
He opened his heart to me, allowing me a profound glimpse into his soul. Danish, an albino from Pakistan, was a captivating blend of awkwardness, shyness, and sweetness. After watching a documentary on albinism in Africa, I knew I wanted to include a person with albinism as part of my Project: Di-vur’si-te. The documentary really horrified me at the discrimination, violence, and isolation that individuals with albinism face, particularly in countries like Tanzania, Malawi, and parts of West Africa – just for being different. Superstitious beliefs prompt rapes, murders, and dismemberment of body parts because albinos are stigmatized as having magical powers that will bring wealth and cure diseases like HIV/AIDS.
This led me to photographing Danish. A mutual friend connected us and set up the photo shoot at Danish’s home. It was just him and me, and the lingering scent of marijuana permeated around him. It didn’t bother me that he indulged. I knew he was probably nervous. Danish was more than just 'cool.' His presence exuded resilience and quiet strength, a testament to his ongoing battle against prejudice and misunderstanding caused by the paleness of his skin.
“He gave me a glimpse of his soul. He bared his body to me”. - Clee
Unfortunately, it was at a time when I just took photographs and didn’t interview the people who were a part of one of my projects – so we didn’t talk too deeply about what albinism meant to him and the problems he faced because of his genetic condition. I really regret that we didn’t go in-depth. Before the shoot, we never discussed the possibility of nude photographs. Yet, as I captured his essence through my lens, I realized that his albinism couldn't be fully depicted with clothes on.
Danish graciously agreed to embrace the vulnerability of being nude, revealing a beauty and authenticity that transcended societal norms and preconceptions. It was an interesting experience for me to photograph Danish. I didn’t know anyone who had albinism before I met him. He was another example of how ‘difference’ doesn’t deter from the fact that we are all human.
The paleness of his skin didn’t stop him from loving, hurting, learning, dreaming, laughing, or anything human. Knowing I was going to do this piece, I thought it would be a great idea to do a follow-up interview to talk to him in depth and find out what he was doing in life. In trying to connect with him, I hit dead-ends. There were no replies to my emails, his socials were inactive, and our mutual friend didn’t want to answer.
What I did find out is that he was an entrepreneur, an inspirational speaker, a bestselling author, and even a stand-up comic. Most of all, it was said that Danish was very well-liked and respected. And it is with sadness I found out that Danish had passed away. I don’t know the details of how Danish died. From my brief experience with Danish, it seemed he strived to live ‘beyond the pale.’ I liked him.
This experience underscores the importance of valuing individuals for their humanity beyond perceived differences and highlights the significance of celebrating the unique contributions each person brings to the world. Danish's legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the inspiration he continues to impart, leaving behind a lasting imprint on those who had the privilege of knowing him, even briefly.
Coming Soon: “They Call Me Clee” - The time has come for a belated introduction from me to the Substack community. Procrastination is real when you have to write about yourself! Stay tuned, it's just around the corner!
Wow what a brave soul! I'm so sorry to hear of his passing. Great read 🖤
Your writing a photographs are so powerful and somehow have so much clarity that I find myself intrigued!