RASC News Agency reports that some residents in Herat province, located in western Afghanistan, assert that the Taliban authorities in the region are taking a dual approach, turning a blind eye to their strict religious edicts when it aligns with their interests, even when it involves music, dance, and revelry. A resident of Herat told RASC News Agency on Monday, April 29, that “last night, hundreds of city residents danced and celebrated the victory of Afghanistan’s futsal team outside the governor’s office and in other parts of the city. Yet, the Taliban officials raised no objection to the music and dance, despite typically deeming such festivities as haram.”
He questioned, “If music and dance aren’t forbidden according to the Taliban, then why do they suppress all of the public’s celebrations and prevent musical events?” The source further added, “This situation suggests that the Taliban do not universally condemn music and dance. Their anger often arises from orders from their superiors rather than the actions themselves.” Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, shared with RASC News Agency that “last night, music, dance, and festivity echoed through all areas of Herat as the youth celebrated the victory of Afghanistan’s national futsal team, and no one intervened to stop the celebrations.”
He also observed that even some Taliban security personnel joined in the celebrations with the public, sharing in their joy. According to him, Afghanistan’s futsal team’s victory has rekindled joy across the nation, much to the chagrin of several neighboring countries. In the meantime, some Taliban officials have expressed to the media that the victory of Afghanistan’s national futsal team and their progression to the World Cup illustrates the pride of the Afghanistani people and government on the global stage.
Farooq Hamidi, a civil society activist in Herat province, told RASC, “On national occasions, the Taliban don’t seem to be troubled by music, dance, or people’s celebrations of joy.” He noted, “Even if the radio on a three-wheeled vehicle is played loudly, one may face an hour of questioning.” Mr. Hamidi continued, “Many people, especially the youth, may take to the streets once in weeks or months to celebrate the victory of Afghanistan’s national futsal team and to indulge in a few hours of enjoyment.”
On the other hand, Abdullah Salar, an Afghanistan affairs expert, said, “From one perspective, the Taliban’s approach is commendable because they refrain from interfering with people’s celebrations on national occasions.” He explained that the Taliban have slowly adopted the belief that the era of tyranny and oppression is over and that the people desire a government that is inclusive and considerate, eliminating disorder and darkness in society.
