RASC News Agency: The spokesperson for the Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture has urged artists to abandon musical performances and dedicate their talents to reciting na’at and other religious hymns. Khabib Ghufran emphasized that artists should channel their abilities toward composing and performing works that align with Islamic teachings and cultural traditions. The Taliban, which categorically considers music to be forbidden (haram), has reintroduced a strict ban on singing and music, mirroring policies from their first regime in the 1990s.
Consequently, singers have been barred from performing in public and have also seen their music banned from television and radio broadcasts. Addressing the media, Ghufran stated, “Our departments have reached out to individuals who previously identified as singers or artists, inviting them to redirect their talents toward producing na’at, hymns, and religious chants that are in harmony with our authentic cultural values and Islamic principles.” He further affirmed that the Taliban would support artists who engage in activities consistent with Islamic law and cultural integrity. However, the Taliban’s return to power has forced the majority of Afghanistani artists to flee the country.
In numerous provinces, Taliban forces have destroyed musical instruments, often burning them publicly, leaving many musicians with no choice but to abandon their craft and seek alternative livelihoods. A substantial number of Afghanistani artists have sought refuge abroad, with many migrating to neighboring countries such as Iran and Pakistan. Others have relocated to nations like Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, India, and various Western countries. This mass exodus underscores the significant challenges facing Afghanistan’s cultural community under the Taliban regime.
