People are just learning heartbreaking truth behind infamous ‘Afghan girl’ photo that will change the way you look at it forever
**The iconic “Afghan Girl” photo**, taken by Steve McCurry in 1984, depicts Sharbat Gula, a 12-year-old refugee with striking green eyes. The image, featured on *National Geographic* in 1985, became a symbol of resilience amid war. Yet, few knew the hardships Sharbat endured.
**Sharbat’s early life** was marked by tragedy. Her mother died when she was eight, forcing her to flee Afghanistan during the Soviet occupation. By 13, she was married, living in a Pakistani refugee camp, and later lost a daughter shortly after birth.
**McCurry described her expression** as a mix of defiance and dignity, capturing the struggle of refugees worldwide. In 2002, he reunited with Sharbat, then a mother battling poverty and grief. Her husband and another daughter later died of hepatitis C.
**In 2016, Sharbat faced arrest** in Pakistan for allegedly using false papers. She denied the charges and was hospitalized for hepatitis C during her 15-day sentence. Refusing to stay in Pakistan, she returned to Afghanistan, where she was gifted a home by President Ashraf Ghani.
**The Taliban’s 2021 takeover** forced Sharbat to flee again. Italy granted her asylum, allowing her children to pursue education—a dream denied in Afghanistan. She expressed mixed feelings about the famous photo but acknowledged its role in aiding refugees.
**Sharbat’s story shocked many**, highlighting how her globally recognized face contrasted with her struggles. Despite her hardships, she remained resilient, inspiring admiration worldwide.
**Today, Sharbat hopes** for a better future for her family. Her daughter aspires to be a doctor—a goal Sharbat vows to support, embracing the freedom she now has. Her life remains a testament to strength amid adversity.
