Taliban Forces Destroy Musical Instruments in Afghanistan Amid Ban

A video circulated on social media shows two members of the Taliban administration destroying musical instruments, including harmoniums and drums, using an axe. These instruments are among the most common and widely used in Afghanistan.

According to the report, the Taliban administration has declared music illegal. In line with this ban, forces affiliated with the ‘Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice’ have confiscated musical instruments from residents and subsequently smashed or burned them.

Harmoniums and drums are widely used in cultural ceremonies, wedding celebrations, and artistic events across many provinces of the country and are considered part of the community’s cultural heritage.

The destruction and burning of musical instruments had previously occurred during the Taliban’s first period of rule. The continuation of this policy has drawn criticism from cultural activists and heightened concerns about extensive restrictions on artistic and cultural activities in the country.