Officials at the Ministry of Information and Culture of the caretaker government have announced that the current government has introduced alternative work opportunities for singers and local musicians in Afghanistan. They can engage in composing religious poetry (Naat) and producing Islamic songs.
Khabib Ghafran, spokesperson for the ministry, stated to the media that artists and singers can now collaborate fully with the caretaker government in composing Naat (religious poetry) and producing Islamic songs.
Mr. Ghafran emphasized, “Our departments have contacted individuals who used to sing and considered themselves artists, inviting them to come and utilize their talents in areas that do not conflict with authentic Afghan culture, particularly in composition, Naat writing, and producing Islamic songs.”
He added that the Ministry of Information and Culture supports art forms that “do not contradict authentic Afghan culture and Islamic law.”
The spokesperson for the Ministry of Information and Culture asserted that Afghanistan has strong artists and singers in the fields of song, poetry, and recitation.
Khabib Ghafran further mentioned that what was previously referred to as music or singing, which was part of Afghan culture, unfortunately, represented a misdefinition of music, and authentic Afghan culture does not necessitate support for it.
It is worth noting that the caretaker government considers music to be forbidden and has banned it in Afghanistan, confiscating and destroying musical instruments multiple times. All those involved in this artistic field have also lost their livelihoods.
It remains unclear whether artists have approached this ministry for collaboration; however, most of them claim that the current government does not have a positive view of singers and musicians.
Mirmufton, a local singer and a prominent figure in Afghan music known for his unique style, is one of those who has remained in the country since the current government came to power again in Afghanistan.
This famous local singer has nearly abandoned his art and singing, stating he is now engaged in farming.
Additionally, under the current government’s rule in Afghanistan, there are no concerts, music programs in the media, or musical performances at personal and family events. Many artists report feeling isolated and have little hope for the future.
A significant number of artists have been forced to leave Afghanistan. Some have migrated to Iran, while others have gone to Pakistan. Some music professionals from Afghanistan have moved to other countries, including Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, India, and Western nations.
