At just 19 years old, Sahar Tabar caught the world’s attention with her astonishing transformation. Through a series of plastic surgeries, she aimed to resemble the iconic Hollywood actress, Angelina Jolie. While her altered appearance and peculiar choices sparked controversy, they also opened up a fascinating discussion.
Tabar’s journey involved more than 50 surgeries, all in a quest to enhance her looks. Though she never explicitly stated her desire to mimic Jolie, her fans made the connection. Her social media presence, particularly her Instagram account with nearly four million followers under the handle @sahartabar official, drew attention to her unusual appearance. However, her controversial content ultimately led to the removal of her account, much to her disapproving mother’s relief.
It is important to note that there is speculation surrounding the authenticity of Tabar’s surgeries. Some have raised doubts, suggesting that the images may have been heavily edited or digitally altered. While this may be true, it doesn’t take away from the broader conversation about beauty standards and the lengths some individuals go to achieve them.
In an interview with the Russian website Sputnik, Tabar revealed that her intention was never to fully resemble Jolie. Instead, she viewed her altered appearance as a form of self-expression and art. She emphasized that her fans were aware that her exaggerated looks did not reflect her true self.
Unfortunately, the consequences of Tabar’s actions were severe. In October 2019, she was arrested under allegations of posting blasphemous photos on Instagram. Additionally, she faced accusations of other offenses, such as illegally purchasing property, inciting violence, negatively influencing youth, earning money unethically, and violating the country’s strict dress code for women. As a result, she received a ten-year prison sentence and was incarcerated in Qarchak, known as one of the harshest women’s prisons in Iran.
During Tabar’s imprisonment, Iranian activist Masih Alinejad used social media to draw attention to the case. Alinejad urged Angelina Jolie, the real Hollywood actress, to speak out and offer her opinion. This plea serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by activists striving for justice and human rights in Iran.
Tabar was released after 14 months, but her story continues to resonate. It prompts us to reflect on society’s relentless pursuit of beauty and the consequences that can arise from such extreme measures.
