Five Years Since Taliban Takeover: Afghan Cinemas Still Close, Film Industry Suffers

Five years after the Taliban’s return to power, cinemas in Afghanistan remain closed, a situation that has severely impacted the film industry and left many citizens dissatisfied.

Cinemas in Afghanistan Remain Closed to the Public

Despite the passage of five years since the Taliban’s takeover, cinemas in Afghanistan are still shuttered. Musi Radmanesh, a cinema activist, emphasizes that cinema serves as an essential medium for education and entertainment.

Film Production in Afghanistan Severely Affected Over the Past Five Years

Afghan filmmakers are facing significant challenges. Many independent film producers, who used to operate freely, are currently unable to continue their work.

Ministry of Information and Culture Remains Silent on Cinema Closures

Repeated requests for comments from Khabib Ghafran, spokesperson for the Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture, have gone unanswered. The ministry has provided no explanation regarding the ongoing closure of cinemas.

Cinema: A Fundamental Need for Society; Voices of Afghan Filmmakers

Safiur Ahankhail, head of the Afghan Cinematographers’ Association in exile, stated that people need entertainment, and the closure of cinemas is unacceptable for society. He highlighted that cinema is a global phenomenon.

The History of Cinema in Afghanistan: From Introduction to Closure

Cinema was first introduced to Afghanistan in 1923 and experienced significant growth during various periods, including the reign of Mohammad Zahir Shah. However, today, the industry finds itself in crisis.