The second half of the 1990s saw the emergence of a new, distinctive type of Afghan poetry, the Taliban tarana. Considering their immense popularity they can be regarded as the signature tune of the Afghan insurgency. . . . Read More

The name Tirah is an elastic geographical expression applied to those highlands divided between the Afridi and Orakzai tribes, which lie between the Khyber and the Kurram. Tirah lies about midway between the two valleys but it dominates neither for the eastern extremity of the great Sufed Koh range and the upper reaches of the Bara valley shut it off from the Khyber whilst the Samana range hedges it in on the south. . . . Read More

The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in December 1979 was a major cause of worldwide anxiety and a turning point in international politics. The Soviet expansionism created a challenge to the security of Pakistan, and the country emerged as a 'front-line' state, the major player in the game and the principal channel through which assistance was provided to the Afghan majahideen (holy warriors). . . . Read More

An innate sense of the essence of their culture sustained Afghans through 24 years of conflict and displacement. Although they continue to cherish the diversity of regional differences, individuals cling tenaciously to their national identity, upholding traditional values and customs that distinguish them from their neighbours. . . . Read More

There is many a myth about Pukhtuns. The British colonialists thought Pukhtuns were 'unruly' people that could not be tamed. When Pakistan came into being, Pukhtun nationalists were regarded as the most serious threat to the new state, and until the 1970s every government persecuted them. . . . Read More

This article intends to trace out the history of the Pashto Movement with a view to exploring its relationship with politics; especially ethnic in Pakistan. The article has two parts. The first part looks at the position of Pashto in Afghanistan, the language and ethnic situation in Pakistan andthe relationship of language with ethnicity and politics. . . . Read More