And Still I Sing
- Description
- Reviews
- Citation
- Cataloging
- Transcript
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Amidst the United States and Taliban peace negotiations, Afghanistan’s controversial pop star and activist Aryana Sayeed mentors hopeful contestants on the hit singing TV series Afghan Star, including the only two female singers, Zahra Elham and Sadiqa Madadgar. As their hopes and dreams of becoming national singers begin to manifest into reality, the Taliban returns to power, reversing twenty years of progress for women’s rights. Amidst the fear and panic caused by the fall of the Afghan government, each woman must make a harrowing escape from Kabul into exile while the US fully evacuates.
Citation
Main credits
Amiri, Fazila (film director)
Amiri, Fazila (screenwriter)
Amiri, Fazila (film producer)
Johnson, Lesley (film producer)
Other credits
Editing, Mahi Rahgozar; cinematography, Duraid Munajim; music, Reza Moghaddas.
Distributor subjects
No distributor subjects provided.Keywords
00:01:22.320 --> 00:01:25.000
If you ever separate from your lover
00:01:25.720 --> 00:01:28.440
By God, you will be ashamed
00:01:29.080 --> 00:01:31.320
If you ever lie to me
00:01:31.800 --> 00:01:34.840
You will be stuck in the dark winter night
00:01:35.640 --> 00:01:37.320
Oh love, my love
00:01:37.800 --> 00:01:39.840
Oh, how beautiful you are
00:01:40.320 --> 00:01:42.400
You are the crown upon my head
00:01:42.880 --> 00:01:46.920
Oh my love,
where did you go to return from?
00:01:47.680 --> 00:01:51.360
You are the crown upon my head
00:01:53.520 --> 00:01:56.000
- What happened to your arm?
- An accident.
00:01:56.000 --> 00:01:58.600
- Did you fall for someone?
- Don't be silly.
00:01:58.920 --> 00:02:03.240
This got 12 stitches.
12 stitches that have left a scar.
00:02:03.760 --> 00:02:07.880
I went to the Ghazni province
on my own to my uncle's house.
00:02:08.800 --> 00:02:11.680
No one welcomed me
when I entered the house.
00:02:12.080 --> 00:02:14.760
My uncle saw me from the living room.
00:02:15.280 --> 00:02:19.080
He suddenly said, why are you here?
Who gave you permission to enter?
00:02:19.080 --> 00:02:21.560
He started arguing about the same old issues,
00:02:22.080 --> 00:02:26.280
threatening me to change my last name,
or he will kill me.
00:02:26.720 --> 00:02:31.440
My uncle is a very strong man.
Suddenly during the argument,
00:02:32.240 --> 00:02:35.800
he pushed me backwards.
00:02:37.480 --> 00:02:42.520
There were a lot of china
and glass dishes behind me.
00:02:43.160 --> 00:02:44.400
I fell down on all of them.
00:02:44.920 --> 00:02:47.880
This is only one cut.
There were so many other ones.
00:02:48.400 --> 00:02:50.440
My arm was full of cuts.
00:02:50.440 --> 00:02:52.880
- Wasn't your Uncle scared?
- No.
00:02:53.280 --> 00:02:57.400
Because of Afghan Star and my singing,
I've had to deal with such danger.
00:03:00.320 --> 00:03:01.720
It's my bad luck.
00:03:09.880 --> 00:03:14.840
When I was one year old,
my family left Afghanistan due to war,
00:03:14.840 --> 00:03:17.240
and we became refugees in Pakistan.
00:03:17.760 --> 00:03:20.800
I lived there for 19 years.
00:03:21.600 --> 00:03:26.320
When I wanted to go to university,
I begged my family to let me go to Kabul,
00:03:26.320 --> 00:03:31.360
and finally convinced them.
I moved to Kabul one and a half years ago.
00:03:33.120 --> 00:03:37.040
My father had only one condition:
I had to study and become a dentist.
00:03:38.040 --> 00:03:43.440
But I have no interest in becoming a dentist.
00:03:44.880 --> 00:03:49.440
I decided to go to university
and study what I love the most.
00:03:49.720 --> 00:03:54.560
I love Politics. That's why I study Law.
Law is my real passion.
00:03:56.240 --> 00:04:01.560
Besides my studies, I have passion for music.
I want to showcase my talent as well.
00:04:02.120 --> 00:04:05.520
So I decided to audition for Afghan Star.
00:04:07.080 --> 00:04:11.600
I wanted the world to hear my voice
as an Afghan girl.
00:04:12.400 --> 00:04:18.720
Mainly because no one has seen
how talented Afghan women truly are.
00:04:19.000 --> 00:04:22.920
I wanted to be a small representation
of these talents.
00:04:29.320 --> 00:04:31.320
I sing pop music.
00:04:31.560 --> 00:04:34.080
But I also love singing folk songs.
00:04:47.840 --> 00:04:49.760
And the singer who
is going to perform now is:
00:04:50.240 --> 00:04:52.080
SADIQA MADADGAR
00:04:55.560 --> 00:04:56.800
Put your hands up everyone!
00:04:58.120 --> 00:05:01.160
I will plant flowers in the lands of God
00:05:01.480 --> 00:05:04.280
My beloved is coming
And I am restless
00:05:06.840 --> 00:05:10.040
I will sit on the road he arrives from
00:05:10.040 --> 00:05:13.200
I will put my heart under his feet
00:05:15.680 --> 00:05:21.800
I swear to you on my pure love
Be patient, God willing!
00:05:23.360 --> 00:05:29.320
Come down the hill,
my heart is restless
00:05:29.920 --> 00:05:36.040
Where are you going?
My eyes are waiting
00:05:36.600 --> 00:05:42.200
My heart is restless
My love is eternal
00:05:47.520 --> 00:05:49.800
Aryana,
how was her performance?
00:05:50.080 --> 00:05:53.040
A very beautiful simple
and a lovely performance!
00:05:53.600 --> 00:05:54.560
9 points!
00:05:54.560 --> 00:05:55.520
Thank you!
00:05:56.840 --> 00:05:59.080
How intoxicating you just sang.
00:05:59.560 --> 00:06:01.680
You have 9 points, dearest Sadiqa!
00:06:03.560 --> 00:06:06.800
My fellow Afghan women,
I'm waiting for your warm support.
00:06:07.200 --> 00:06:09.120
Don't forget to vote for me!
00:06:16.480 --> 00:06:17.760
Look what's happened here.
00:06:18.040 --> 00:06:20.520
This suicide bombing happened yesterday, right?
00:06:23.520 --> 00:06:25.240
What have they done?
00:06:27.160 --> 00:06:28.400
My God.
00:06:29.440 --> 00:06:32.680
When the home of the Vice President
is in this state,
00:06:33.160 --> 00:06:34.720
forget about ours.
00:06:35.320 --> 00:06:37.120
The elections are getting close.
00:06:37.120 --> 00:06:39.160
That's the reason behind all these Taliban attacks.
00:06:39.920 --> 00:06:41.480
We will have to sit at home.
00:06:42.160 --> 00:06:45.640
Imagine if the Taliban come back.
What are we going to do then?
00:06:45.920 --> 00:06:47.680
I can't even imagine.
00:06:56.600 --> 00:06:59.440
I was raised as a refugee in Pakistan.
00:06:59.440 --> 00:07:04.480
I started singing during high school.
My parents have always supported me.
00:07:05.640 --> 00:07:08.240
One night I dreamt
that I was playing the harmonium.
00:07:08.880 --> 00:07:13.080
I woke up and organized the pillows
as if they were my audience.
00:07:13.080 --> 00:07:15.440
I started playing the harmonium and singing.
00:07:15.440 --> 00:07:19.280
My mother came and said:
What are you doing in the middle of the night?
00:07:19.640 --> 00:07:21.920
I said, Mother, I just dreamt
that I'm going to win Afghan Star.
00:07:24.440 --> 00:07:28.840
When I was coming to Kabul,
my father said I didn't have enough training.
00:07:29.200 --> 00:07:32.360
That the situation in Afghanistan is bad,
and I should wait another year.
00:07:32.920 --> 00:07:36.640
I said if I wait for the situation,
it will only get worse, not any better.
00:07:42.280 --> 00:07:44.800
I have now been in Kabul for 4 months.
00:07:45.520 --> 00:07:49.240
My father sends me money.
He encourages me to move forward.
00:07:50.600 --> 00:07:55.280
I want to show my talent to the world
and to say that I can be different.
00:07:56.880 --> 00:07:59.080
And now let's welcome,
00:07:59.080 --> 00:08:01.160
ZAHRA ELHAM
00:08:10.680 --> 00:08:16.160
It was an autumn night
The rain was falling on the windows
00:08:16.720 --> 00:08:22.640
In the vase of my heart
His love was growing roots
00:08:23.040 --> 00:08:28.720
One rainy night, he came to my house
00:08:34.880 --> 00:08:40.720
He filled my home with his scent
00:08:52.480 --> 00:08:53.440
Bravo, Zahra!
00:08:53.920 --> 00:08:59.880
You performed very well.
I'm so proud that you are improving day by day.
00:09:01.880 --> 00:09:04.840
You deserve a 10 tonight!
00:09:06.720 --> 00:09:09.880
My goal is that a female singer
wins the show this year,
00:09:10.360 --> 00:09:12.640
so that all men burst with jealousy!
00:09:19.640 --> 00:09:20.440
Oh, my!
00:09:21.400 --> 00:09:24.560
Now we will show you.
00:09:25.120 --> 00:09:27.160
- What just happened?
00:09:27.160 --> 00:09:28.320
Hello? 1, 2, 3.
00:09:30.120 --> 00:09:33.280
On behalf of all four judges,
I give you 40 points.
00:09:48.600 --> 00:09:51.400
Life was never easy for me.
00:09:53.120 --> 00:09:55.760
We were seven sisters.
00:09:56.440 --> 00:09:59.920
Beside our father, we had no other
male member in our family.
00:10:00.320 --> 00:10:02.120
Because my father was alone,
00:10:02.480 --> 00:10:07.440
it was difficult for him to raise
seven daughters in Kabul during the civil war.
00:10:09.160 --> 00:10:12.920
The war was too intense
and our lives were at stake everyday.
00:10:14.120 --> 00:10:19.560
One night, we woke up in terror
from the sound of a big explosion.
00:10:20.360 --> 00:10:24.360
We saw a rocket had
landed on a tree in our yard.
00:10:25.000 --> 00:10:30.760
Since the tree was very old and strong,
I can say that it saved our lives.
00:10:33.760 --> 00:10:36.320
My father never wanted
to leave his country.
00:10:37.240 --> 00:10:41.000
He would say this is my homeland.
This is my soil. Whatever happens, I will stay.
00:10:41.440 --> 00:10:46.000
But after this incident, he realized that
he may lose his family in the war.
00:10:47.680 --> 00:10:51.400
When we became refugees,
we all had to restart from scratch.
00:10:51.880 --> 00:10:54.680
We started a new life once in Pakistan,
and then in Europe.
00:10:59.600 --> 00:11:02.360
After the Taliban regime fell,
00:11:03.080 --> 00:11:06.480
I came back to Afghanistan in 2011.
00:11:08.160 --> 00:11:12.640
Since then, I've been trying to bring
positive change to Afghanistan.
00:11:15.400 --> 00:11:16.240
Greetings.
00:11:16.600 --> 00:11:21.440
The ongoing peace talks between
the Taliban and the United States
00:11:22.000 --> 00:11:30.920
has turned peace negotiations into crucial news
inside Afghanistan and around the world.
00:11:31.520 --> 00:11:39.160
But there are concerns about sacrificing
the 18 years of progress for peace negotiations.
00:11:42.240 --> 00:11:47.280
Most of these concerns are from
women, youth, artists, and the activists.
00:11:48.160 --> 00:11:53.320
My guest Aryana Sayeed,
is a national singer and an artist,
00:11:53.600 --> 00:11:58.160
who is also well known as
a women's rights activist.
00:11:58.640 --> 00:12:03.240
You are a symbol of change in Afghanistan.
00:12:05.480 --> 00:12:11.040
If the Taliban return, what other
challenges may come your way?
00:12:11.600 --> 00:12:15.320
I highly doubt that the Taliban
would even let me visit Afghanistan.
00:12:15.920 --> 00:12:17.880
This is my honest concern every day.
00:12:18.320 --> 00:12:23.080
And whether I can sing,
go on a stage or have a concert,
00:12:23.360 --> 00:12:25.760
that won't even be part of a discussion.
00:12:26.080 --> 00:12:33.440
They want to force us to accept an
abnormal and inhumane way of life.
00:12:34.160 --> 00:12:36.880
What issues do you want to be
raised during the peace talks?
00:12:37.240 --> 00:12:44.280
First and foremost a woman's right
to study, work and to choose.
00:12:44.840 --> 00:12:48.040
Children's rights to go to school.
00:12:48.600 --> 00:12:53.880
It is time to take these issues very seriously
and raise our voices, before it's too late.
00:13:17.880 --> 00:13:21.520
Last year, I had a concert in Paris, where
00:13:22.240 --> 00:13:26.640
I wore an outfit that created a big controversy.
00:13:27.160 --> 00:13:31.400
I think because the dress was nude in colour.
00:13:32.720 --> 00:13:39.680
Suddenly I faced so many death threats
as if Afghanistan had been turned upside down.
00:13:40.840 --> 00:13:44.200
Even one of the national TV channels,
00:13:44.440 --> 00:13:47.840
made a program against me
during the whole month of Ramadan.
00:13:48.200 --> 00:13:50.800
They invited local Mullahs
to talk about me.
00:13:51.240 --> 00:13:53.160
"She should be banned
from reentering Afghanistan."
00:13:53.160 --> 00:13:54.720
"She should be killed."
00:13:55.200 --> 00:13:58.640
This image of Aryana Sayeed
from her Paris concert, has caused quiet a stir.
00:14:01.560 --> 00:14:06.240
We cannot consider her behaviour humane.
00:14:06.680 --> 00:14:11.440
Nor decent and Islamic.
00:14:12.600 --> 00:14:16.280
And if Afghanistan claims
to be an Islamic country,
00:14:16.640 --> 00:14:21.240
such women have no place
on the soil of our country.
00:14:23.080 --> 00:14:27.680
Without any doubt, today's program
is about Aryana Sayeed.
00:14:28.520 --> 00:14:33.640
Allah says wearing a hijab is best for you,
people must be able to differentiate you from
00:14:33.640 --> 00:14:38.520
women who are prostitutes, dancers,
and who are on a bad path.
00:14:39.760 --> 00:14:44.840
The only main difference between a good
Muslim woman and a bad one is her Hijab.
00:14:46.440 --> 00:14:49.920
After the 13th episodes,
more Mullahs joined the program.
00:14:50.920 --> 00:14:53.040
Then five or six Mullahs in unison,
00:14:53.480 --> 00:14:56.480
issued a Fatwa, calling for my death.
00:14:56.480 --> 00:14:58.040
Live on Television.
00:14:59.280 --> 00:15:05.560
Until I took the dress to my backyard,
hung it on a rope and burned it.
00:15:06.680 --> 00:15:11.680
Now does burning my dress end
all of Afghanistan's problems?
00:15:15.320 --> 00:15:21.120
But I also vowed to never
give up on my work and leave.
00:15:22.000 --> 00:15:27.560
Because when I come to Afghanistan,
it's to bring hope for women.
00:15:28.040 --> 00:15:33.640
If I quit and run away,
what would happen to that hope?
00:15:47.520 --> 00:15:50.000
- Hello.
- Hello.
00:15:50.520 --> 00:15:53.920
- How are you?
- I'm good, how about you?
00:16:00.280 --> 00:16:01.520
How are you feeling today?
00:16:01.840 --> 00:16:07.320
I was doing good at the rehearsals,
but when I went on stage,
00:16:08.600 --> 00:16:11.920
It was not even 50%
to what I rehearsed here.
00:16:13.040 --> 00:16:16.200
When I looked at Wasim during the song,
00:16:16.600 --> 00:16:21.000
People said, why did you flirt with a boy?
00:16:21.280 --> 00:16:23.840
- Who?
- People.
00:16:24.600 --> 00:16:27.640
They criticize me for laughing on stage.
00:16:28.000 --> 00:16:32.200
Don't ever worry.
People will keep judging you.
00:16:32.680 --> 00:16:37.080
But I assure you, your duet
performance with Wasim was excellent.
00:16:38.320 --> 00:16:42.720
Some negative people will
always put you down.
00:16:43.280 --> 00:16:48.920
- I hadn't planned it.
- Don't worry, focus on your work.
00:16:49.360 --> 00:16:52.480
It is very important to have
confidence on the stage.
00:16:52.760 --> 00:16:57.240
People are drawn to your confidence.
00:16:57.600 --> 00:16:59.320
Keep that forever.
00:17:01.040 --> 00:17:04.160
I call Aryana, the Queen of Hearts.
00:17:05.240 --> 00:17:08.040
She is my role model in Afghanistan.
00:17:08.800 --> 00:17:12.480
Her presence gives us energy.
00:17:13.520 --> 00:17:20.600
Because she has always
fought for Afghan women's rights.
00:17:23.000 --> 00:17:26.000
Look, they even scratched out my name.
00:17:26.440 --> 00:17:29.080
They wiped out the quote too.
00:17:30.160 --> 00:17:32.600
They want so much revenge.
00:17:32.840 --> 00:17:36.200
They destroyed the mural
a day after it was painted, right?
00:17:36.600 --> 00:17:38.360
Yeah, I think so too.
00:17:40.000 --> 00:17:43.280
Look at the mural of a male singer
beside mine.
00:17:44.120 --> 00:17:49.600
He is an artist, and I'm also an artist.
But they only wiped out my face.
00:17:50.160 --> 00:17:55.080
The quote says:
"This is my hero, a woman from Afghanland."
00:17:55.720 --> 00:17:59.280
People have issue with the
word "hero" for a woman.
00:17:59.760 --> 00:18:03.440
They don't want anyone to
call Aryana Sayeed a hero.
00:19:04.480 --> 00:19:07.480
My friendship with Zahra didn't begin here.
00:19:07.480 --> 00:19:09.800
As refugees, we went to the same high school
together in Pakistan.
00:19:10.240 --> 00:19:13.640
Our meeting in Kabul was a remarkable coincidence.
00:19:14.040 --> 00:19:19.120
We met again on Afghan Star
and we were both very surprised.
00:19:19.760 --> 00:19:21.560
Thank God we live together.
00:19:25.800 --> 00:19:28.920
When Sadiqa was in high school,
she didn't wear a Hijab.
00:19:28.920 --> 00:19:32.040
When I first saw her during the auditions,
I didn't recognize her.
00:19:32.280 --> 00:19:36.160
I asked, are you Sadiqa?
She said yes, and we both laughed.
00:19:36.160 --> 00:19:39.600
I asked, how did you end up here?
She said, I followed my passion.
00:19:40.320 --> 00:19:43.840
I said, good.
Let's see who will get further.
00:19:47.000 --> 00:19:49.640
I love Zahra like a younger sister.
00:19:50.040 --> 00:19:52.600
We are both here without our families.
00:19:53.240 --> 00:19:56.200
But no place is like one's own country.
We belong here.
00:20:01.360 --> 00:20:03.040
Let's go shopping.
00:20:39.440 --> 00:20:40.680
It's very elegant.
00:20:41.560 --> 00:20:44.120
- I could wear it with black pants?
- Yes, that's right.
00:20:44.400 --> 00:20:47.680
The skirt is big and hand sewn.
00:20:49.480 --> 00:20:51.000
Can I see the back?
00:20:53.800 --> 00:20:55.680
Beautiful.
00:20:56.800 --> 00:21:02.320
What outfits do you have in mind
for me to wear on Afghan Star?
00:21:03.560 --> 00:21:06.200
I will design everything you like.
00:21:07.840 --> 00:21:09.360
Please turn around.
00:21:11.680 --> 00:21:14.720
You put your arm out through here,
00:21:15.280 --> 00:21:16.680
and the same on the other side.
00:21:19.680 --> 00:21:21.280
That blue one.
00:21:22.920 --> 00:21:26.240
I like this coat but knee length.
00:21:27.080 --> 00:21:29.360
- Is it possible.
- Yes.
00:21:30.440 --> 00:21:32.840
Same colour, I love this colour.
00:21:33.160 --> 00:21:33.840
Not a problem.
00:21:38.320 --> 00:21:42.320
I have a significant influence on
women, particularly.
00:21:43.160 --> 00:21:47.520
Everything I wear, you can find it
in Bazaars the following week.
00:21:48.080 --> 00:21:51.680
People buy exact dresses
from stores and malls.
00:21:52.360 --> 00:21:56.480
That's why some men have
issues with my lifestyle.
00:21:57.320 --> 00:22:00.480
Sometimes the director of
Afghan Star says to me,
00:22:00.480 --> 00:22:04.200
Aryana, if you don't mind,
can you please sit this way?
00:22:05.520 --> 00:22:10.240
Even now, it makes me sad to think
of all the pressure we are under.
00:22:10.560 --> 00:22:15.000
As a woman I can't be natural
and relaxed, because I have curves.
00:22:15.000 --> 00:22:16.800
I have to keep my posture this way?
00:22:20.520 --> 00:22:23.240
We have corruption in Afghanistan.
00:22:23.480 --> 00:22:26.080
Women's ears and noses get cut off.
00:22:26.080 --> 00:22:29.920
Our children are forced into child marriages.
00:22:30.320 --> 00:22:31.600
Rape exists.
00:22:32.160 --> 00:22:35.040
Women are stoned to death without any crime.
00:22:35.360 --> 00:22:40.640
When it comes to serious social issues,
men are all silent.
00:22:50.840 --> 00:22:55.240
Your words are sparking a fire
in my heart, little by little
00:23:00.600 --> 00:23:04.480
Your love is capturing me, with little signs
00:23:05.800 --> 00:23:08.400
Little by little...
00:23:14.760 --> 00:23:17.880
Women are just realizing their rights.
00:23:18.360 --> 00:23:21.720
They have just learned to
stand on their own feet.
00:23:22.760 --> 00:23:29.760
But I don't think women can progress
without supporting each other.
00:23:33.240 --> 00:23:36.040
Little by little...
00:23:47.280 --> 00:23:50.680
Girls and athletes,
let's have each other's back.
00:23:51.440 --> 00:23:53.800
Besides Afghan Star and my studies,
I work out as well.
00:23:54.280 --> 00:23:59.000
Avoid people who believe
girls should not go to the gyms.
00:23:59.680 --> 00:24:04.400
There is one or two girls in every household,
if we count, it adds up to millions.
00:24:04.400 --> 00:24:09.320
Let's not think that we are less
and my vote doesn't matter.
00:24:11.000 --> 00:24:14.560
If a girl wins after 13 years,
that's very important.
00:24:15.480 --> 00:24:19.040
When she wins, she will
reimburse your phone bills.
00:24:20.080 --> 00:24:22.160
No, I will send you all a special
invitation to my first concert.
00:24:22.600 --> 00:24:25.840
So in short, vote for Sadiqa and me!
00:24:27.360 --> 00:24:30.480
I really need your support
in this process.
00:24:31.560 --> 00:24:34.320
Then the competition will be
between Zahra and I.
00:24:35.120 --> 00:24:37.040
- She will win and I will be a runner up.
- Excellent!
00:24:37.360 --> 00:24:39.560
She's very young.
I don't want to her to cry.
00:24:40.360 --> 00:24:43.760
- No, I will prove my talent.
- You think I'm less talented than you?
00:24:45.600 --> 00:24:47.400
I can box.
00:24:47.880 --> 00:24:50.400
You sing and I'll throw punches.
00:24:55.040 --> 00:24:58.440
Just before Afghan Star started,
my mother told me not to participate.
00:24:58.920 --> 00:25:00.680
She said, you will dishonor our family.
00:25:01.000 --> 00:25:04.200
What's music? What have others
achieved by singing?
00:25:04.560 --> 00:25:08.480
Even if you become a singer,
you will get married,
00:25:09.040 --> 00:25:11.800
and your husband will take care of you.
00:25:12.360 --> 00:25:14.400
Why have you chosen this path?
00:25:16.400 --> 00:25:21.160
My mother thinks the whole world of
a woman depends on a man.
00:25:21.920 --> 00:25:24.080
Meaning that we don't
have our own identities.
00:25:25.240 --> 00:25:29.120
We don't have the intellect and skills
to become somebody on our own.
00:25:29.480 --> 00:25:33.480
Since then, I still think I have made the right decision.
00:25:33.800 --> 00:25:38.560
We can only make our families proud,
when we stand up and speak up.
00:25:39.000 --> 00:25:41.160
When we prove ourselves.
00:25:41.600 --> 00:25:43.800
I'm sure my family will have my back one day.
00:26:09.720 --> 00:26:11.880
Hello, good morning.
00:26:29.160 --> 00:26:31.320
Good morning, how are you?
00:26:33.880 --> 00:26:35.840
Friends, tonight is the elimination night.
00:26:36.160 --> 00:26:38.760
But before that, we have wonderful
duet performances.
00:26:39.400 --> 00:26:44.680
Our first performance of the night is by
Salaam Maftoon and Sadiqa Madadgar.
00:26:53.160 --> 00:26:55.920
My lover is on the roof
00:26:56.360 --> 00:26:59.480
She's wearing a hijab,
at the evening prayer
00:26:59.840 --> 00:27:02.600
My lover is on the roof
00:27:03.120 --> 00:27:06.160
He's wearing a hat,
at the evening prayer
00:27:07.600 --> 00:27:10.600
If you were only aware of my condition
00:27:10.880 --> 00:27:13.520
My beloved is on the roof
00:27:14.200 --> 00:27:17.200
Your stone heart would feel bad for me
00:27:17.800 --> 00:27:20.280
My beloved is on the roof
00:27:21.040 --> 00:27:24.360
If you search the whole world
00:27:24.360 --> 00:27:27.320
My beloved is on the roof
00:27:27.640 --> 00:27:30.360
You won't find a loyal lover like me
00:27:30.760 --> 00:27:33.800
My beloved is on the roof
00:27:42.160 --> 00:27:47.240
Salaam, your style has totally changed since
Canada's Prime Minister knows you.
00:27:47.480 --> 00:27:50.200
God knows if you will ever miss us or not.
00:27:50.640 --> 00:27:53.680
Sadiqa, you sang very lovely.
Your voice was perfect for this song.
00:27:55.200 --> 00:27:56.200
Aryana dear.
00:27:56.640 --> 00:28:01.800
This was your best performance
so far on the show.
00:28:02.120 --> 00:28:02.880
Thank you.
00:28:02.880 --> 00:28:04.200
- I loved it!
00:28:08.680 --> 00:28:11.920
Tonight you have decided,
00:28:12.520 --> 00:28:15.440
to place Sadiqa Madadgar in the danger zone.
00:28:18.880 --> 00:28:22.760
The contestant who still has a chance,
00:28:23.440 --> 00:28:26.160
to perform another beautiful song for you,
00:28:27.480 --> 00:28:29.200
that person is...
00:28:30.120 --> 00:28:31.560
Abdul Salaam Maftoon!
00:28:35.360 --> 00:28:38.040
Thank you, thank you.
I love you all!
00:28:41.040 --> 00:28:42.600
Yet again,
00:28:43.080 --> 00:28:46.920
the next person who will advance to the next round
00:28:48.080 --> 00:28:49.880
is Zahra Elham.
00:28:59.480 --> 00:29:04.920
Now, I'm going to announce
the name of the contestant, who will go home tonight.
00:29:06.600 --> 00:29:07.800
And that is...
00:29:12.880 --> 00:29:14.000
Sadiqa Madadgar.
00:29:20.480 --> 00:29:23.600
First of all, top 7 is a big achievement.
00:29:24.440 --> 00:29:28.000
There are singers who did not win,
00:29:28.440 --> 00:29:30.560
but they became stars among people.
00:29:30.800 --> 00:29:34.280
God willing, I will be one of
those stars for my people.
00:29:35.120 --> 00:29:39.600
Thanks to everyone who supported me.
I am humbled.
00:29:41.840 --> 00:29:44.640
I'm sure you can still come back
on the Lucky Chance day.
00:29:48.160 --> 00:29:51.400
I want all my fans to vote for Zahra now.
00:29:52.560 --> 00:29:54.360
I want her to win.
00:29:55.520 --> 00:29:57.360
Her win would be my win.
00:29:58.360 --> 00:29:59.880
I mean it with all my heart.
00:30:59.440 --> 00:31:02.080
When the Taliban were in power in Afghanistan,
00:31:02.560 --> 00:31:05.400
this stadium was their execution space.
00:31:07.360 --> 00:31:10.720
They brought people here
and cut their hands and legs.
00:31:11.320 --> 00:31:14.440
One of the darkest memories
people have of this stadium,
00:31:15.000 --> 00:31:19.400
is when they brought a woman
here and shot her in the head.
00:31:20.280 --> 00:31:25.400
Right in that spot. Her dried up
blood is probably still there.
00:31:28.320 --> 00:31:32.840
This is why there is a deep fear,
especially among women.
00:31:33.720 --> 00:31:38.280
Are the Taliban who want to return to power today,
the same Taliban as they were 18 years ago?
00:31:39.080 --> 00:31:43.640
There are no guarantees
that they would be any different.
00:31:44.160 --> 00:31:47.720
First of all, women are not included
in the US-Peace talks.
00:31:48.640 --> 00:31:55.160
And second, women have fought hard
for their rights for the past 18 years.
00:31:56.280 --> 00:32:00.360
Are the Taliban ready to sustain
women's rights or not?
00:32:01.000 --> 00:32:05.120
What will happen to our doctors,
teachers, and businesswomen?
00:32:05.120 --> 00:32:07.120
We are deeply concerned about our future.
All of us.
00:32:09.200 --> 00:32:14.920
My biggest dream has always been
to have a concert here in Ghazi Stadium.
00:32:15.720 --> 00:32:21.360
My wish is to help ease the burden
of people's dark recollections,
00:32:21.600 --> 00:32:24.200
and help them create fresh
new memories of this place.
00:32:24.760 --> 00:32:26.360
Memories of music.
00:32:30.160 --> 00:32:37.560
This year, we have a chance to reclaim
the celebration that was taken from us.
00:32:38.800 --> 00:32:42.040
For too many years we have been
robbed of these festivals.
00:32:42.280 --> 00:32:44.640
We have been forced to celebrate things,
00:32:45.200 --> 00:32:48.480
that do not represent our
cultural and historical values.
00:32:48.840 --> 00:32:52.160
Has Ghazi Stadium been
mentioned in your proposal?
00:32:52.160 --> 00:32:56.920
Yes, we have a concert
planned at Ghazi stadium.
00:32:57.760 --> 00:33:01.400
It depends on how the
security situation will unfold.
00:33:01.680 --> 00:33:03.640
If peace comes, we are good to go.
00:33:04.160 --> 00:33:06.600
The government has to promote it even more.
00:33:07.040 --> 00:33:12.480
In the current political climate,
we are all waiting for peace to come,
00:33:12.880 --> 00:33:15.680
which is the only hope for every one of us.
00:33:15.680 --> 00:33:16.880
- Hopefully.
- God willing.
00:33:17.320 --> 00:33:22.360
And the concert that we have
planned for you is very important.
00:33:23.200 --> 00:33:27.680
No one else can unite people.
No politicians or anyone else.
00:33:28.400 --> 00:33:32.000
Our artist can, because
she lives in the hearts of people.
00:33:32.000 --> 00:33:33.880
And you can gift that smile to people.
00:33:35.080 --> 00:33:40.200
My only goal is to do something
positive for my country.
00:33:41.400 --> 00:33:45.120
I don't think there is a more
positive plan than this concert.
00:33:45.800 --> 00:33:50.000
It is both cultural, historical and
entertainment for people.
00:33:51.200 --> 00:33:56.200
It is a great idea from all perspectives,
and I'm 100% in.
00:33:56.640 --> 00:34:04.080
I think this year, on Afghanistan's
100th Independence Day,
00:34:04.400 --> 00:34:10.560
we will have our concert in Ghazi Stadium.
00:34:15.080 --> 00:34:16.800
May God bless your words!
00:34:22.400 --> 00:34:25.640
- Well boys, do you know me or not?
- Yes we do.
00:34:26.560 --> 00:34:29.640
Last year I was also a student here
and went to the same courses as you.
00:34:29.880 --> 00:34:31.720
but now, I participated in Afghan Star.
00:34:31.720 --> 00:34:35.760
I made it to Top 7,
but it's the Lucky Chance this week.
00:34:36.200 --> 00:34:38.880
Please support me in this process.
Whenever I become a star,
00:34:38.880 --> 00:34:41.200
I will support you and all our youth.
00:34:41.200 --> 00:34:43.400
Because I have been in your shoes.
00:34:43.640 --> 00:34:45.680
Now I have chosen this path.
00:34:45.680 --> 00:34:48.200
Please text 7 to 8656.
00:34:51.680 --> 00:34:54.320
Fortunately, the contestants
who have been eliminated,
00:34:54.320 --> 00:34:56.680
have one more chance to return.
00:34:56.680 --> 00:34:59.400
The episode is called "The Lucky Chance".
00:35:01.360 --> 00:35:03.120
I haven't done much campaigning so far.
00:35:03.440 --> 00:35:05.720
All my votes were naturally from my fans.
00:35:06.240 --> 00:35:09.160
The courses I take at my
university have many students.
00:35:09.920 --> 00:35:13.320
If I campaign here and they support me,
00:35:13.760 --> 00:35:16.920
I can possibly return to the show.
00:35:17.320 --> 00:35:19.800
The good news is that,
the Lucky Chance winner,
00:35:19.800 --> 00:35:22.160
usually makes it to the finale.
00:35:23.560 --> 00:35:24.720
May I enter?
00:35:25.480 --> 00:35:27.680
- Do you want to do a security check?
- No, you're good.
00:35:31.520 --> 00:35:35.080
Do I have your votes and support?
00:35:36.080 --> 00:35:37.120
Yes!
00:35:37.120 --> 00:35:39.880
- I didn't hear you all.
- Yes!
00:35:39.880 --> 00:35:43.640
After 13 years when only boys win Afghan Star,
00:35:43.920 --> 00:35:46.560
this time, Sadiqa Madadgar must win!
00:35:54.440 --> 00:35:57.200
Sadiqa Madadgar and Zahra Elham.
00:35:58.600 --> 00:36:02.680
Afghan Star is the most vulgar TV program,
00:36:03.520 --> 00:36:06.320
which produces prostitutes.
00:36:06.800 --> 00:36:11.000
During the last 14 years,
all female contestants
00:36:11.560 --> 00:36:14.440
have ultimately become whores,
worthless and honorless.
00:36:15.520 --> 00:36:18.360
If you do not want to share their sins,
00:36:18.680 --> 00:36:21.720
do not vote for Sadiqa and Zahra.
00:36:24.560 --> 00:36:30.080
There is a warlord, who is threatening
to kill Zahra and me.
00:36:31.040 --> 00:36:36.200
My father called me yesterday,
and said enough with Afghan Star,
00:36:36.840 --> 00:36:38.240
forget it all.
00:36:38.520 --> 00:36:41.200
Just leave Afghanistan and
come back to your family.
00:36:42.080 --> 00:36:44.480
He put me between a rock and a hard place.
00:36:44.800 --> 00:36:47.720
To either choose my family or Afghan Star.
00:36:48.320 --> 00:36:52.760
Both my parents told me not to go
on the Lucky Chance episode.
00:37:00.440 --> 00:37:02.560
- Do you still feel warm?
- Yes.
00:37:03.560 --> 00:37:05.320
But your hands are cold.
00:37:09.200 --> 00:37:10.520
Can you stand?
00:37:11.600 --> 00:37:13.240
Lean back.
00:37:21.240 --> 00:37:24.240
I was at home practicing music when,
00:37:24.600 --> 00:37:29.840
I received a phone call from someone,
who started cursing and threatening me.
00:37:30.400 --> 00:37:35.600
He said, I'm going to kill you with
a knife or throw acid in your face.
00:37:36.600 --> 00:37:39.160
I believed him because he knew my exact address.
00:37:39.800 --> 00:37:42.880
I've been so scared lately,
I got sick.
00:37:43.360 --> 00:37:47.680
I fainted this morning and when I woke up,
I was at the hospital.
00:37:50.360 --> 00:37:53.440
Mainly because I am a Hazara girl,
00:37:53.840 --> 00:37:57.760
and Hazara people have been the targets
of persecution by the Taliban.
00:37:57.760 --> 00:38:01.920
Sadiqa and I often get death threats
because of our ethnicity.
00:38:02.360 --> 00:38:04.520
We are really drained by it.
00:38:21.120 --> 00:38:24.280
I'm very nervous.
I haven't slept all night.
00:38:25.920 --> 00:38:29.280
I was dreaming of whether
I will come back to the show or not.
00:38:30.000 --> 00:38:34.080
If I don't make it,
how can I face my family?
00:38:34.600 --> 00:38:40.360
After rebelling and breaking taboos.
00:38:41.440 --> 00:38:47.560
Whoever comes back tonight, will go very far.
To top 3, at the very least.
00:38:51.640 --> 00:38:53.480
Friends, are we ready?
00:38:53.880 --> 00:38:54.760
5
00:38:55.200 --> 00:38:56.160
4
00:38:56.160 --> 00:38:56.880
3
00:38:58.400 --> 00:38:59.880
It's the Lucky Chance round.
00:39:00.240 --> 00:39:02.320
Tonight from eight stars,
00:39:02.320 --> 00:39:05.280
only one star, with the highest votes
will become lucky.
00:39:05.640 --> 00:39:07.480
And will return to the competition.
00:39:08.000 --> 00:39:11.200
I would like to ask all contestants
to come on stage.
00:39:19.400 --> 00:39:23.720
These eight stars have had another chance,
00:39:24.000 --> 00:39:28.920
to gain the votes of those of you,
who didn't pay attention to them before.
00:39:33.720 --> 00:39:35.480
Najibullah Estalifi.
00:39:36.000 --> 00:39:39.320
And Elyas Zahin both rappers,
00:39:39.800 --> 00:39:43.280
They couldn't come back to the show.
00:39:49.920 --> 00:39:53.720
Hameed Hadees and
Hamid Mahboob,
00:39:54.400 --> 00:39:56.480
Hameed is going home tonight.
00:39:59.280 --> 00:40:00.640
Sadiqa Madadgar,
00:40:05.920 --> 00:40:10.200
the singer who is known for
her bravery and her confidence,
00:40:11.240 --> 00:40:17.080
with her vibrant performances,
she made it to latest rounds,
00:40:18.440 --> 00:40:20.880
and she has many fans.
00:40:22.640 --> 00:40:25.640
Unfortunately, Sadiqa is not returning.
00:40:27.680 --> 00:40:30.600
Thanks to everyone who voted for me.
I love you!
00:41:31.080 --> 00:41:33.640
In the beginning, Sadiqa's
song choices were very good,
00:41:34.360 --> 00:41:36.440
but slowly her choices worsened.
00:41:36.440 --> 00:41:40.160
I told her once to choose different songs,
but she didn't listen to me.
00:41:40.840 --> 00:41:42.520
I hope this doesn't happen to me.
00:41:42.520 --> 00:41:46.280
To make it to the final rounds and
suddenly get eliminated at 4th or 3rd place.
00:41:49.200 --> 00:41:52.440
Our national dance is joyful
00:41:52.440 --> 00:41:57.400
These youth who are dancing together,
my friends.
00:41:58.000 --> 00:42:00.360
Our national dance is joyful
00:42:04.920 --> 00:42:07.080
At first my competition was with Sadiqa.
00:42:07.080 --> 00:42:11.560
Because we were both girls
and had to compete for votes.
00:42:11.560 --> 00:42:15.080
They were divided equally between us.
00:42:15.080 --> 00:42:18.000
But now, I don't have anyone to compete with.
00:42:19.280 --> 00:42:24.240
The ones who know our national dance best
00:42:24.680 --> 00:42:28.520
They all look more unique among us,
my friends.
00:42:28.840 --> 00:42:34.000
Our national dance is joyful
00:42:37.000 --> 00:42:40.280
It would be amazing if I make
it to top 2 or top 3.
00:42:40.800 --> 00:42:43.440
But my aim is to win!
God willing.
00:42:44.440 --> 00:42:46.800
It will open doors to more
opportunities for my concerts soon.
00:42:47.400 --> 00:42:50.280
No female singer has ever played
the harmonium on stage.
00:42:50.280 --> 00:42:53.000
I want to play tabla and harmonium.
00:42:53.400 --> 00:42:57.240
I want to prove that a girl can play music
and sing at the same time.
00:42:58.120 --> 00:43:00.240
Zahra! Zahra! Zahra!
00:43:09.600 --> 00:43:13.600
Our respected Defence Minister of Afghanistan.
00:43:19.000 --> 00:43:23.440
I wish you all a very Happy International Women's Day,
from bottom of my heart.
00:43:24.200 --> 00:43:25.800
I won't take much of your time.
00:43:26.600 --> 00:43:30.120
When there is Aryana,
you don't have much interest in me.
00:43:32.400 --> 00:43:34.600
I just want to congratulate you all.
00:43:35.640 --> 00:43:41.440
Not only the children you raise become heroes,
you are all heroes yourselves.
00:43:44.200 --> 00:43:50.200
And our women pilots who fly
shoulder to shoulder with their brothers.
00:43:51.640 --> 00:43:54.240
Our soldiers who are
working in different fields,
00:43:54.720 --> 00:43:58.280
I am proud of each and everyone of you.
00:43:59.120 --> 00:44:01.000
This is you and this is your Aryana.
00:44:05.040 --> 00:44:05.720
Thank you!
00:44:07.920 --> 00:44:12.440
A warm hello to all special guests.
00:44:13.200 --> 00:44:21.280
I would like to say that I have a great
respect for your role in our National Army.
00:44:22.840 --> 00:44:27.680
If today, I can return home safely,
with an open heart,
00:44:28.160 --> 00:44:31.800
and a peace of mind,
and work for my country,
00:44:32.240 --> 00:44:35.400
the main reason behind it, is your hard work.
00:44:36.120 --> 00:44:40.840
I want to say something to some men
who don't accept the fact
00:44:41.880 --> 00:44:46.280
that women play a major role in this country.
00:44:47.560 --> 00:44:52.320
I want them to see the brave women who are
fighting along with men on the front line.
00:44:53.560 --> 00:44:56.760
I want them to know that Afghan
women have equal rights,
00:44:57.480 --> 00:45:01.560
and they are a big part of our society,
as much as men are.
00:45:02.080 --> 00:45:03.800
Thank you very much!
00:45:36.240 --> 00:45:38.240
Let me show you the rooms.
00:45:39.800 --> 00:45:42.000
One room is big and one small.
00:45:42.680 --> 00:45:45.920
- On the other side, we have 3 rooms.
- I only need one.
00:45:46.440 --> 00:45:49.000
One room is more than enough for me.
00:45:49.760 --> 00:45:51.360
Please go in.
00:45:55.120 --> 00:45:59.800
- Isn't this too cold?
- Well, it's winter.
00:46:01.280 --> 00:46:06.280
I can't keep living with Zahra in
Tolo TV's guesthouse anymore.
00:46:07.040 --> 00:46:08.720
Looks good.
00:46:09.640 --> 00:46:12.600
I have to find a new place to rent.
00:46:13.360 --> 00:46:17.160
The kitchen and bathroom are outside.
00:46:27.720 --> 00:46:30.040
It has everything you need.
00:46:31.080 --> 00:46:33.560
- Is there only one kitchen?
- Yes, only one.
00:46:36.800 --> 00:46:38.440
After you.
00:46:39.760 --> 00:46:44.000
- Do you need to see any documents?
- Yes, your ID and your passport.
00:46:45.360 --> 00:46:49.200
I have them with me and will show you.
00:46:49.480 --> 00:46:55.000
But don't you think the rent
is too high for one room?
00:46:55.720 --> 00:46:59.040
- Please come back with your father or brother.
- Why?
00:46:59.040 --> 00:47:02.840
As a single woman, you cannot sign a lease.
But they can.
00:47:25.040 --> 00:47:28.880
When I was starting as a musician,
early in my career,
00:47:29.400 --> 00:47:31.440
I got engaged to someone.
00:47:32.360 --> 00:47:35.600
His family was completely against
my singing career.
00:47:36.640 --> 00:47:40.320
Soon it reached a point that
my fiancé gave me an ultimatum.
00:47:40.760 --> 00:47:43.280
To choose between him or my music.
00:47:43.280 --> 00:47:45.920
And I didn't want to live without music.
00:47:46.840 --> 00:47:49.080
I decided to leave him.
00:47:57.720 --> 00:47:58.840
Sweetheart.
00:47:59.800 --> 00:48:01.680
Sweet baby.
00:48:05.240 --> 00:48:06.240
Give me your hand.
00:48:08.080 --> 00:48:09.200
Adorable.
00:48:13.240 --> 00:48:14.400
Don't you dare Hasib!
00:48:19.840 --> 00:48:23.440
Hasib has been my Manager for many years
and he is a good friend of mine.
00:48:23.440 --> 00:48:26.040
And now he is my fiancé.
00:48:26.360 --> 00:48:30.040
He tries his best for us to work
for Afghanistan together,
00:48:30.040 --> 00:48:31.640
and advocate for women's rights.
00:48:34.080 --> 00:48:38.040
Lately, I have been researching
about Afghan women singers.
00:48:38.280 --> 00:48:41.760
We had many incredible
female artists in the past,
00:48:42.120 --> 00:48:46.000
who all have faced hardships
to perform in Afghanistan.
00:48:50.160 --> 00:48:54.800
Recently, I came across a singer named Homa.
00:48:55.920 --> 00:49:00.120
She was a very unique singer
but once she was married,
00:49:00.360 --> 00:49:02.440
her family didn't let her sing anymore.
00:49:02.840 --> 00:49:04.840
This broke my heart,
00:49:05.320 --> 00:49:09.200
and I felt inspired to
cover one of her songs.
00:49:35.440 --> 00:49:39.560
Doesn't she have an innocent face?
00:49:40.640 --> 00:49:44.320
- She is beautiful.
- Seems sweet and kind.
00:49:53.640 --> 00:49:59.040
I am joined by your sorrows.
00:49:59.840 --> 00:50:05.840
Now the sorrows are
oppressors of my life
00:50:06.760 --> 00:50:09.400
Don't be sad
00:50:09.680 --> 00:50:12.120
You're my love
00:50:12.680 --> 00:50:17.560
If you're happy
You're my love
00:50:18.520 --> 00:50:21.200
You're the love of my world
00:50:36.240 --> 00:50:38.320
Did you find an apartment?
00:50:38.840 --> 00:50:41.280
I saw a few places.
00:50:41.280 --> 00:50:43.760
First of all, they don't rent
apartments to single girls.
00:50:44.040 --> 00:50:47.400
They say you have to have
your family with you.
00:50:47.840 --> 00:50:51.280
And the minute they recognize you from Afghan Star,
they double the rent.
00:50:51.280 --> 00:50:52.680
- I'm still looking.
00:50:52.680 --> 00:50:53.920
You're not going back to Pakistan?
00:50:54.240 --> 00:50:58.560
What for? I face so much hardship
to live independently,
00:50:59.120 --> 00:51:03.240
I don't want to go back and live like
a prisoner in the house again.
00:51:04.160 --> 00:51:07.880
Yesterday, I went to Bazaar
to find a dress for the finale.
00:51:09.160 --> 00:51:11.880
I walked past a man, and he recognized me.
00:51:13.080 --> 00:51:16.200
He shouted, here's that Afghan Star.
The girl who has turned into a whore.
00:51:16.200 --> 00:51:17.760
I was so scared.
00:51:17.760 --> 00:51:20.240
He kept shouting, and everyone
was watching me.
00:51:20.880 --> 00:51:23.360
I ran away as fast as I could.
00:51:24.520 --> 00:51:28.760
This shows that you're famous now.
Only focus on the positive.
00:51:29.080 --> 00:51:33.680
That despite your young age,
you are on the biggest Afghan talent show.
00:51:34.480 --> 00:51:39.000
Choose a great song and a perfect dress,
at this critical stage.
00:51:39.560 --> 00:51:44.320
Prepare a very good speech
to draw people's attention.
00:51:45.640 --> 00:51:51.840
Don't say men are jealous.
They will not vote for you this time.
00:52:01.160 --> 00:52:02.800
How are you?
00:52:04.160 --> 00:52:06.720
- I hope you win.
- God willing.
00:52:07.400 --> 00:52:10.520
- Yes, you have a big chance.
- Are you composing a song for me?
00:52:10.760 --> 00:52:16.160
Let's finish the show first.
I will arrange it for you when I'm free.
00:52:17.480 --> 00:52:20.280
- I have promised you.
- Will it be your own composition?
00:52:20.800 --> 00:52:23.560
Yes, it will be mine.
What type of song do you want?
00:52:23.560 --> 00:52:26.280
I would like one like your song,
"Kam Kamak."
00:52:26.280 --> 00:52:28.800
- You mean a pop song?
- Yes, please.
00:52:29.120 --> 00:52:31.920
Please win first, and I will make you a song.
00:52:37.320 --> 00:52:39.360
I was 100% sure I would be eliminated.
00:52:39.680 --> 00:52:43.120
Many contestants really made me nervous.
00:52:43.640 --> 00:52:48.400
But then I thought, if Aryana has
been able to establish her career this far,
00:52:48.880 --> 00:52:50.240
I can do it too.
00:52:50.920 --> 00:52:54.000
Now I'm in the finale.
00:53:14.200 --> 00:53:15.680
Life goes on
00:53:16.200 --> 00:53:20.440
Life goes on
and everything shall pass
00:53:24.920 --> 00:53:29.160
We will age well
My young friend
00:53:33.120 --> 00:53:36.920
I'm the singer in
every young boy's heart.
00:53:40.360 --> 00:53:43.680
I'm an immigrant
in a foreign land
00:53:44.560 --> 00:53:48.080
I'm patient and helpless,
without a cure and treatment.
00:53:49.040 --> 00:53:52.560
Where's my mother
and sister to pray for me
00:53:53.240 --> 00:53:56.840
How would a foreigner know
the pain of an immigrant
00:54:17.840 --> 00:54:21.120
Zahra Elham and Wasim Anwari!
00:54:23.360 --> 00:54:26.720
Wasim! Wasim!
00:54:35.040 --> 00:54:38.200
So far, your top 2 finalists
have equal number of votes.
00:54:43.320 --> 00:54:46.040
I told you so many times,
do not look sad.
00:54:46.480 --> 00:54:49.080
Thousands are watching you live on TV.
00:54:51.160 --> 00:54:54.920
Have a positive energy.
You're a star already.
00:54:56.120 --> 00:54:59.560
Do you know what hurts?
That I am standing on the stage,
00:55:00.720 --> 00:55:02.600
and hear everyone cheering for him.
00:55:02.600 --> 00:55:05.280
You've come all the way to the finale.
00:55:05.800 --> 00:55:11.400
Ahead of me, Mahboob and Firoz.
00:55:12.120 --> 00:55:16.040
Only Wasim is left.
Nothing matters anymore.
00:55:17.640 --> 00:55:21.320
Dear friends, inside this box,
00:55:23.040 --> 00:55:25.920
is the result of your votes.
00:55:26.800 --> 00:55:28.040
Are you all ready?
00:55:31.760 --> 00:55:33.160
And now,
00:55:33.920 --> 00:55:34.920
the singer,
00:55:35.440 --> 00:55:40.600
who is the winner of the
14th season of Afghan Star.
00:55:41.600 --> 00:55:42.600
It is...
00:55:49.320 --> 00:55:53.240
the contestant who will take home
the trophy is...
00:55:54.040 --> 00:55:55.360
are you all ready?
00:55:58.480 --> 00:56:01.200
For the first time, it's a woman,
Zahra Elham!
00:56:23.560 --> 00:56:25.680
Zahra Elham!
00:56:27.560 --> 00:56:32.160
Now she will recieve the winning trophy!
00:56:32.560 --> 00:56:37.920
Congratulations! I'm sure that you will
cherish and honor this recognition.
00:56:38.680 --> 00:56:43.520
You will work hard and be
a great singer of our Afghanistan.
00:56:44.520 --> 00:56:48.000
The first thing I would like to say is:
Did the hearts of the jealous burn, or not?
00:56:51.400 --> 00:56:56.920
Indeed. I'm very happy.
There's no words to describe my feelings.
00:56:59.640 --> 00:57:03.760
I won on behalf of all Afghan girls.
00:57:04.280 --> 00:57:08.480
Today not only Zahra Elham is the winner,
but all Afghan women are winners.
00:57:09.000 --> 00:57:10.920
Dear friends, peace is on its way.
00:57:11.480 --> 00:57:15.480
We hope that our future peace
will still have Afghan Star.
00:57:15.840 --> 00:57:18.360
Until we meet again or not,
00:57:18.640 --> 00:57:20.680
May God will be your friend
and your protector.
00:57:21.680 --> 00:57:23.640
- I was praying the whole time
for Zahra to win.
00:57:23.640 --> 00:57:25.520
I voted for her secretly.
00:57:25.520 --> 00:57:28.240
(Laughs) So I'm...
I'm so happy.
00:57:28.240 --> 00:57:30.520
Really. I... I am really
excited right now.
00:57:30.520 --> 00:57:32.080
I don't know what to say.
00:57:33.040 --> 00:57:38.400
Indeed, history is made.
In 13 years, no girl has won this stage.
00:57:39.080 --> 00:57:41.920
For the first time, people voted
and supported a young woman.
00:57:42.320 --> 00:57:43.920
This is the change.
00:57:43.920 --> 00:57:46.000
This is change in Afghanistan,
and I am so happy.
00:57:48.320 --> 00:57:50.880
- Congratulations!
- May you live long. Thank you so much.
00:57:54.800 --> 00:57:57.760
This is an injustice against Wasim.
It's unacceptable.
00:57:58.200 --> 00:58:02.080
This is a crime against my son.
I will bomb this place.
00:58:02.080 --> 00:58:03.680
This is an injustice against Wasim.
00:58:04.320 --> 00:58:06.040
Security guards, please clear the venue.
00:58:06.320 --> 00:58:07.920
Dad, please stop.
00:58:08.200 --> 00:58:09.960
Clear the stage, please.
00:58:09.960 --> 00:58:12.120
- Don't worry. It's okay.
00:58:13.320 --> 00:58:16.600
Zahra, they are all burning with jealousy.
00:58:51.800 --> 00:58:54.280
Dear Aryana Sayeed, thank you for your time.
00:58:54.800 --> 00:59:00.360
As you know, the peace process
is taking place at a fast pace.
00:59:01.000 --> 00:59:06.720
Do you think with the return of the Taliban,
women will have as much freedom?
00:59:07.680 --> 00:59:12.560
Certainly, all Afghans want peace.
00:59:14.000 --> 00:59:21.680
But one thing that is not acceptable
for the general population and myself,
00:59:21.680 --> 00:59:26.600
is that our demands are not being
considered in the peace talks.
00:59:27.080 --> 00:59:31.800
Women are 50% of this country's population,
00:59:31.800 --> 00:59:34.760
who all find the US-Taliban peace process problematic.
00:59:35.400 --> 00:59:38.880
When the Taliban become a power
shareholder with the Afghan government,
00:59:39.320 --> 00:59:43.600
people wonder whether their freedoms
will be preserved in society,
00:59:43.840 --> 00:59:48.440
or will they be forced to live under the
same rules and oppression of the past?
00:59:48.840 --> 00:59:52.720
I think, the peace talks
without the presence of women,
00:59:53.080 --> 00:59:57.880
and even without the voices of civilians,
are truly worrisome.
01:00:03.480 --> 01:00:06.800
When Afghan Star ended,
01:00:07.160 --> 01:00:13.640
Hasib was approached regarding
Afghanistan's 100th Independence Day Festival.
01:00:14.440 --> 01:00:19.280
And they also invited me
to perform at the Ghazi Stadium.
01:00:20.280 --> 01:00:22.840
I am especially happy that,
01:00:23.160 --> 01:00:29.320
they want Hasib to organize
and plan the whole festival.
01:00:29.360 --> 01:00:31.280
- I have moved everything
to that side of the castle.
01:00:31.280 --> 01:00:32.760
- Okay.
01:00:32.760 --> 01:00:34.160
- So the fireworks will
come up above here.
01:00:34.160 --> 01:00:35.520
Let me show you that.
01:00:35.520 --> 01:00:37.560
We tested a couple of things.
01:00:37.560 --> 01:00:39.000
This is it.
01:00:39.000 --> 01:00:41.640
So we want this to be like
the crown of the palace.
01:00:41.640 --> 01:00:45.080
- Yeah. We can have a drone
on the way like...
01:00:45.080 --> 01:00:47.280
400 meters away looking above...
- Exactly. Exactly.
01:00:50.200 --> 01:00:54.680
Planning a concert in Afghanistan
comes with many challenges.
01:00:55.600 --> 01:00:57.640
You have to start your plans months before.
01:00:58.120 --> 01:01:00.920
You have to deal with security personnel.
01:01:01.240 --> 01:01:03.360
You have to make sure the government knows.
01:01:04.160 --> 01:01:08.200
At the same time, you must make sure
01:01:09.400 --> 01:01:11.800
the suicide bombers won't find out.
01:01:12.160 --> 01:01:15.400
To make sure those who want
to kill you are not aware.
01:01:16.040 --> 01:01:18.920
A few years ago,
I arranged a concert for Aryana,
01:01:19.360 --> 01:01:23.680
Since I was the host, I wasn't able to see
Aryana until she entered the stage.
01:01:23.920 --> 01:01:27.320
That moment I suddenly realized,
once she steps on that stage
01:01:27.600 --> 01:01:30.480
I may not see her again.
01:01:31.000 --> 01:01:36.440
And we had accepted death that day.
We thought this is the end.
01:01:38.680 --> 01:01:42.680
I turned around and
Aryana and I said our goodbyes.
01:01:54.880 --> 01:02:00.720
I am in Bamiyan, in front of Salsal and Shamama,
the Buddha's of Bamiyan.
01:02:00.720 --> 01:02:05.880
for a very big event that I have been
dreaming about for years.
01:02:05.880 --> 01:02:08.080
I finally made it to
The Danbura Festival.
01:02:08.800 --> 01:02:11.240
Many other artists are performing.
01:02:11.520 --> 01:02:14.880
And people here are lovely,
cultured and liberal.
01:02:16.000 --> 01:02:22.400
The Taliban consider music a sinful act,
which no one should practice or enjoy.
01:02:22.880 --> 01:02:27.640
But as you can see, many of my fans are here.
Maybe even my foes.
01:02:28.120 --> 01:02:32.160
They are all here to enjoy the concert.
01:02:52.000 --> 01:02:53.160
Look.
01:02:53.840 --> 01:02:56.000
Look at the camera Zahra.
01:02:57.520 --> 01:03:00.040
Please welcome Zahra Elham on the stage!
01:03:02.360 --> 01:03:04.400
Let's give her a big round of applause.
01:03:06.160 --> 01:03:08.680
Hello my friends.
01:03:09.720 --> 01:03:12.040
I am so thrilled to be here.
01:03:44.800 --> 01:03:47.040
Let me see your hands.
01:04:28.560 --> 01:04:32.640
Welcome, come in.
Take off your shoes.
01:04:35.080 --> 01:04:36.360
How have you been?
01:04:38.440 --> 01:04:40.040
Long time no see.
01:04:40.640 --> 01:04:43.320
That room belongs to my roomate, Farzana.
01:04:43.720 --> 01:04:46.120
- Wow.
- This is my room.
01:04:47.000 --> 01:04:48.840
It's beautiful.
01:04:49.800 --> 01:04:52.080
Bring the mattress so we can sit on it.
01:04:52.760 --> 01:04:57.040
After looking for months, finally,
I found this apartment.
01:04:57.400 --> 01:05:00.480
- But you have a good place now.
- Please sit.
01:05:02.000 --> 01:05:05.160
- How have you been?
- Where have you been, girl?
01:05:06.320 --> 01:05:09.480
I was in Uzbekistan.
01:05:10.080 --> 01:05:12.760
And after Afghan Star,
I travelled to Bamiyan.
01:05:12.760 --> 01:05:13.800
- Really?
- Yes.
01:05:14.240 --> 01:05:17.720
I had a great concert.
People cheered and were very supportive.
01:05:18.000 --> 01:05:20.520
- I wish I was there.
- Me too.
01:05:21.200 --> 01:05:24.000
Then as you know,
Aryana gave me two song compositions.
01:05:24.000 --> 01:05:26.760
I released one, and it has already
reached one million views.
01:05:26.760 --> 01:05:30.160
Yes, I know.
One million views is a lot.
01:05:30.560 --> 01:05:35.280
You know before it was released,
people were not expecting you to be successful.
01:05:35.280 --> 01:05:40.080
But when you made the video,
you proved them wrong.
01:05:40.360 --> 01:05:41.800
It was a great composition too.
01:05:43.840 --> 01:05:45.320
With your permission.
01:05:47.480 --> 01:05:49.680
You are drawing a soccer field.
01:05:57.760 --> 01:06:00.280
Let me take a photo and credit you.
01:06:00.280 --> 01:06:03.640
Your future is very bright with such talent.
01:06:06.240 --> 01:06:11.480
Let me put henna on
your eyebrows and your lips.
01:06:15.120 --> 01:06:18.360
- What did you write?
Z, S.
01:06:18.360 --> 01:06:21.680
- Where are my initials on your hand?
- Oh, I forgot.
01:06:24.520 --> 01:06:26.200
Write S and CR7.
01:06:26.520 --> 01:06:29.640
No, I don't like Ronaldo.
I'm a Messi fan.
01:06:29.640 --> 01:06:31.320
You have no taste!
01:06:35.440 --> 01:06:38.720
The political changes in
the United States of America,
01:06:39.120 --> 01:06:42.760
have raised questions about the
peace talks with the Taliban.
01:06:43.520 --> 01:06:50.360
But the Taliban consider the peace talks
as an act of surrender by the United States.
01:06:51.360 --> 01:06:58.400
The US and foreign troops must withdraw
from Afghanistan within 14 months.
01:06:58.920 --> 01:07:02.480
Afghan government must follow
the path of Quran and Sunnah.
01:07:03.040 --> 01:07:05.720
In which part of the Quran
is it written that this is Jihad?
01:07:05.720 --> 01:07:07.920
One Afghan is killing another.
01:07:07.920 --> 01:07:10.240
This week you have carried out 600 attacks,
01:07:10.560 --> 01:07:15.920
In more than 20 provinces,
200 civilians have been killed.
01:07:16.480 --> 01:07:18.640
Why isn't the violence decreased?
01:07:19.000 --> 01:07:21.800
The nature of warfare is such.
This war is imposed on us.
01:07:27.600 --> 01:07:29.400
Male Reporter: At least
63 people were killed.
01:07:29.400 --> 01:07:30.960
Including children.
01:07:30.960 --> 01:07:33.320
When suicide bomber struck
inside this wedding hall
01:07:33.320 --> 01:07:35.720
in Afghanistan's capital Kabul.
01:07:35.720 --> 01:07:37.840
The guests were predominantly
01:07:37.840 --> 01:07:40.280
from the Hazara Shia Muslim
minority.
01:07:40.280 --> 01:07:43.120
It was the deadliest attack
in Kabul this year.
01:07:43.120 --> 01:07:46.000
The attack cast a shadow
over the celebrations
01:07:46.000 --> 01:07:48.680
to mark Afghanistan's 100th
anniversary
01:07:48.680 --> 01:07:51.080
of full independence
from British rule.
01:07:54.400 --> 01:07:56.280
This is the father of the bride.
01:07:57.040 --> 01:08:00.200
He's lost 11 members of his family.
01:08:01.280 --> 01:08:05.120
On this side of the bride's house,
they are digging a mass grave.
01:08:07.160 --> 01:08:10.720
The youngest child was six years old.
01:08:11.640 --> 01:08:17.360
What's justice when a father
buries his two children in one day?
01:08:19.040 --> 01:08:21.720
May God bring this upon the president.
01:08:22.320 --> 01:08:26.200
He is celebrating the
Independence Day on our genocide.
01:08:32.720 --> 01:08:35.600
All these incidents only happen,
01:08:35.600 --> 01:08:38.080
where we, the vulnerable Hazara people live in Kabul.
01:08:39.440 --> 01:08:42.120
Our people are bleeding.
Is this Independence?
01:08:42.360 --> 01:08:46.800
Now all of the Independence Day
events are being cancelled or delayed.
01:08:46.800 --> 01:08:48.640
Let's hope nothing bad happens tomorrow.
01:08:49.280 --> 01:08:51.000
I am very terrified to go outside.
01:09:05.240 --> 01:09:06.560
There are so many challenges.
01:09:07.680 --> 01:09:11.440
Even though the main event of
this festival was Aryana's concert,
01:09:12.000 --> 01:09:17.200
and that is also the main reason
why I chose to take this job.
01:09:17.200 --> 01:09:20.560
At the very last minute,
right after the attack,
01:09:21.080 --> 01:09:25.240
the government ordered: Aryana Sayeed
will not perform on Independence Day.
01:09:27.800 --> 01:09:31.520
As of now, there are ongoing
peace negotiations with the Taliban,
01:09:32.520 --> 01:09:37.240
They are discussing the possibilities of
peace with the Taliban and power-sharing.
01:09:39.880 --> 01:09:43.000
What is interesting is that their
system is already installed.
01:09:43.240 --> 01:09:47.800
We have a major celebration for the
100th Year of Afghanistan's Independence,
01:09:49.320 --> 01:09:56.000
yet the biggest, most popular and
beloved singer in the country is not invited.
01:09:56.440 --> 01:09:59.440
Because of a small fraction
of the conservatives,
01:09:59.840 --> 01:10:02.720
the rest of the people will not
be able to go to her concert.
01:10:21.480 --> 01:10:24.600
We are moving backwards.
01:10:25.240 --> 01:10:30.000
The bombing and those it killed, is heartbreaking.
It's devastating.
01:10:30.440 --> 01:10:34.600
I felt, I shouldn't do the concert
in Ghazi Stadium.
01:10:35.480 --> 01:10:39.320
At the same time, the officials
who work with the president,
01:10:39.720 --> 01:10:41.600
cancelled my concert.
01:10:42.080 --> 01:10:47.000
I am not surprised they are against me.
I have been fighting against such issues for years.
01:10:47.880 --> 01:10:51.800
When no one believed it was possible,
I dared to go on the stage and sing.
01:10:52.280 --> 01:10:59.520
That was the biggest step I took,
as a woman and as an activist.
01:11:00.440 --> 01:11:06.000
What I really want for all Afghans
is to have their rights.
01:11:06.760 --> 01:11:14.320
Especially women, who have been victims
and are forbidden from all their rights.
01:11:15.880 --> 01:11:18.320
I have tried to do my best.
01:11:18.840 --> 01:11:22.160
If the Taliban return
back to power in Afghanistan,
01:11:22.520 --> 01:11:26.000
they will not let me enter
my country ever again.
01:11:26.520 --> 01:11:31.240
At least I have been committed
to my responsibilities towards my people.
01:11:31.640 --> 01:11:34.080
My wish is to see them succeed.
01:11:34.520 --> 01:11:37.520
Whether I'm still here or not.
01:11:42.320 --> 01:11:46.800
This land is Afghanistan
01:11:47.480 --> 01:11:52.000
It is the pride of every Afghan
01:11:52.680 --> 01:11:56.880
The land of peace
The land of the sword
01:11:57.600 --> 01:12:02.000
Each of her sons is brave
01:12:02.400 --> 01:12:06.880
This is our country
01:12:07.560 --> 01:12:12.720
The land of Balochs and Uzbeks
01:12:13.560 --> 01:12:17.560
Of Pashtuns and Hazaras
01:12:18.320 --> 01:12:22.080
Of Turkmens and Tajiks
01:13:05.120 --> 01:13:07.520
I was born in this world to have a role.
01:13:10.080 --> 01:13:14.280
I'm not afraid of Taliban, ISIS,
death threats, or the lack of security.
01:13:16.280 --> 01:13:22.160
I want to have a Master's degree
and a PhD in Law.
01:13:23.760 --> 01:13:27.520
I also want to continue singing.
01:13:31.280 --> 01:13:38.760
In sports, I want to be the first woman to
bring an Olympic gold medal to my country.
01:13:42.160 --> 01:13:46.040
Sometimes I ask myself, is it even possible?
Then I think of course it is.
01:13:47.640 --> 01:13:50.880
My will is all that matters.
01:14:55.400 --> 01:14:59.840
I could never imagine that the Taliban
would seize power in Afghanistan this easily.
01:15:00.400 --> 01:15:03.120
We had a very strong army.
01:15:03.600 --> 01:15:06.800
We had a president who promised
this would never happen.
01:15:07.120 --> 01:15:09.200
It's very shocking for all of us.
01:15:10.120 --> 01:15:14.520
The only place that the Taliban
didn't enter was the airport.
01:15:15.400 --> 01:15:21.840
But they were shooting everywhere to scare people,
and not to let them enter.
01:15:24.600 --> 01:15:27.640
Hasib told me we had no other choice.
We must leave now.
01:15:27.920 --> 01:15:33.280
The US planes were landing
on the other side of the airport.
01:15:33.520 --> 01:15:38.880
He said, it's a big risk.
But if we can get to the airport safely,
01:15:39.280 --> 01:15:41.800
and make it through the crowd,
we might be able to escape.
01:15:45.120 --> 01:15:48.080
My heart was beating at 180.
01:15:48.080 --> 01:15:53.520
I was telling myself that I would be okay,
I'm all covered in hijab,
01:15:54.040 --> 01:15:57.760
and the Taliban might not ask a woman to
uncover your face and show us who you are.
01:15:58.200 --> 01:16:01.360
I was terrified for Hasib.
01:16:05.080 --> 01:16:09.560
There was no space to move
and no oxygen to breathe.
01:16:09.560 --> 01:16:11.160
It was an awful situation.
01:16:11.440 --> 01:16:15.160
After four or five hours, we reached the gate.
01:16:18.320 --> 01:16:23.240
When we saw this miserable situation,
we said there's no way we can make it.
01:16:23.760 --> 01:16:27.240
Suddenly I saw that a US soldier
was pointing at me, to see my passport.
01:16:27.240 --> 01:16:29.800
I raised my hands and shouted, please help us.
01:16:30.320 --> 01:16:36.280
At this moment, an Afghan translator tells
the soldier that she's our famous singer,
01:16:36.640 --> 01:16:40.440
and her life is in grave danger.
We must help her.
01:17:04.680 --> 01:17:09.160
We were the last two people who were
taken to one of the military planes.
01:17:09.160 --> 01:17:12.280
I had no idea what to think.
I was in a state of shock.
01:17:12.680 --> 01:17:19.520
My heart was broken, and I thought I was dreaming.
It cannot be true.
01:17:39.880 --> 01:17:41.680
(Clicks tongue)
- This is Herat.
01:17:43.120 --> 01:17:46.560
Apparently this young man
he was listening to music.
01:17:47.760 --> 01:17:50.080
- Oh, my God. And they are
dragging him on the street?
01:17:50.080 --> 01:17:52.840
- No, they are beating him up.
- (Gasps)
01:17:52.840 --> 01:17:54.760
Oh, my God. Oh, my God.
01:17:56.320 --> 01:17:58.480
(Disapproving tongue clicks)
01:17:58.480 --> 01:18:01.800
- This is the new Taliban.
- That's so sad.
01:18:01.800 --> 01:18:04.040
There's a group of them,
Right? Like...
01:18:04.040 --> 01:18:05.240
- Yeah. Yeah.
01:18:05.240 --> 01:18:07.200
Two or three people
are holding...
01:18:07.200 --> 01:18:08.760
- Oh, my God.
01:18:08.760 --> 01:18:10.840
- and they are holding him
above the ground,
01:18:10.840 --> 01:18:13.480
and beating him up.
- (Gasps) It's so scary.
01:18:13.480 --> 01:18:15.640
If, if they caught us
like that,
01:18:15.640 --> 01:18:17.840
they would have shot us.
Right away.
01:18:17.840 --> 01:18:19.600
- Yeah, I mean, this...
01:18:19.600 --> 01:18:21.520
this poor guy he was
listening to music.
01:18:21.520 --> 01:18:23.520
- Exactly.
01:18:23.520 --> 01:18:26.200
- They probably would have
first
01:18:27.400 --> 01:18:30.040
put you in front of a camera.
01:18:30.040 --> 01:18:31.840
And maybe, would have gotten
you to,
01:18:31.840 --> 01:18:35.320
I don't know, speak positively
of the Taliban.
01:18:35.320 --> 01:18:37.400
- Honestly,
it's like a nightmare
01:18:37.400 --> 01:18:39.560
that I'm not able
to wake up from.
01:18:41.120 --> 01:18:42.560
Unbelievable.
01:18:49.720 --> 01:18:53.680
Since the day I left, and the Taliban
are in control of Afghanistan,
01:18:54.280 --> 01:18:59.400
my only request from the International
community is not to recognize the Taliban.
01:18:59.760 --> 01:19:04.520
When it comes to women's rights,
according to them, women should not even exist.
01:19:04.800 --> 01:19:09.400
If we look at the ministries,
they have appointed only the Mullahs.
01:19:10.400 --> 01:19:17.320
This war in Afghanistan will continue
because the Taliban cannot run a government.
01:19:17.320 --> 01:19:20.200
Our problems are increasing, day by day.
01:19:20.680 --> 01:19:24.120
This must not be acceptable for anyone.
01:19:25.200 --> 01:19:29.160
Hence why I'm working to raise awareness
and continue pressuring the world.
01:19:30.400 --> 01:19:36.800
In many conferences, I'm asking many countries
to evacuate Afghan singers and musicians.
01:19:37.360 --> 01:19:42.880
Because artists lives are under a significant threat,
and they are hiding inside their homes.
01:19:43.200 --> 01:19:49.520
Music is banned, and the Taliban
told artists to find other jobs.
01:19:50.800 --> 01:19:56.280
If we don't help the musicians,
they won't be able to preserve music,
01:19:56.600 --> 01:19:59.440
and pass it on to the new generation.
01:20:00.440 --> 01:20:02.680
It's a very dire situation in Afghanistan.
01:20:02.920 --> 01:20:10.400
And until my last power, I will try to
help my people and give them hope.
01:20:31.920 --> 01:20:34.160
It's the second street on your right.
01:20:36.880 --> 01:20:39.000
The first person who called me was my mother.
01:20:39.560 --> 01:20:42.400
She told me there were no flights.
01:20:43.400 --> 01:20:46.040
I was smuggled out through the land border.
01:20:46.320 --> 01:20:51.280
When you cross the border to Pakistan,
the road is very rough and difficult.
01:20:51.560 --> 01:20:54.480
It's a harrowing journey, especially for a girl.
01:20:55.320 --> 01:20:59.160
I was wearing a Burqa and only my eyes were visible.
01:21:00.120 --> 01:21:04.760
Through my Burqa, I witnessed the Taliban
were beating people with sticks.
01:21:05.400 --> 01:21:08.280
They don't even let women speak,
let alone women singers.
01:21:08.800 --> 01:21:13.080
I am an infidel in their eyes.
01:21:13.520 --> 01:21:15.560
But I had to hide my identity and escape.
01:21:26.400 --> 01:21:32.560
Life goes on, but I feel I'm in limbo.
I have lost everything.
01:21:33.200 --> 01:21:35.080
It is out of my control.
01:21:35.440 --> 01:21:38.560
I miss the times in Afghan Star.
01:21:39.000 --> 01:21:41.680
I miss Sadiqa and Aryana the most.
01:21:43.360 --> 01:21:46.240
The return of the Taliban is horrifying.
01:21:46.640 --> 01:21:49.360
It means the end of the arts, culture,
our values and society.
01:21:51.400 --> 01:21:56.840
But I will continue despite all the darkness,
and all the hardships we are facing.
01:21:58.320 --> 01:22:04.160
I will do what I can as a woman singer, even in exile.
01:22:04.680 --> 01:22:07.720
I will still sing until my last breath.
01:22:09.280 --> 01:22:14.480
I will feel proud of myself to be
the voice for the voiceless women.
01:22:15.000 --> 01:22:21.840
I want to be a role model for them,
and raise their voices through my songs.
01:22:41.920 --> 01:22:49.400
Restless hearts are broken.
01:22:50.160 --> 01:22:57.160
Branches are separated from their flowers.
01:22:58.080 --> 01:23:03.360
What has the merciless world done?
01:23:06.040 --> 01:23:13.040
That Kabul is broken into pieces.
01:23:14.320 --> 01:23:21.400
Oh, time, may your disloyalty be over.
01:23:22.680 --> 01:23:30.360
Oh, separation, wherever you came from,
may you be gone.
01:23:32.080 --> 01:23:37.880
May our songless nights pass.
01:23:40.080 --> 01:23:46.000
May the unforgiving times do not last longer
01:23:48.200 --> 01:23:53.600
What has the merciless world done?
01:23:55.880 --> 01:23:59.200
That Kabul is broken into pieces.
01:24:07.160 --> 01:24:11.600
You can not erase women.
01:24:12.440 --> 01:24:15.440
I am a lawyer.
01:24:16.000 --> 01:24:18.560
I am an engineer.
01:24:19.040 --> 01:24:22.040
I am a computer scientist.
01:24:22.440 --> 01:24:24.440
I am an economist.
01:24:24.800 --> 01:24:27.600
I need my profession.
01:24:28.040 --> 01:24:31.600
We don't want charity.
01:24:31.600 --> 01:24:34.600
We want our careers.
01:24:39.520 --> 01:24:41.160
It's midnight.
01:24:41.680 --> 01:24:43.280
Can you hear the gunshots?
01:24:48.560 --> 01:24:51.200
They have been firing for several hours.
01:25:02.880 --> 01:25:06.160
We don't know who our enemy is.
01:25:09.080 --> 01:25:12.400
Who are we fighting?
01:25:13.520 --> 01:25:15.600
Who are we opposing?
01:25:18.720 --> 01:25:20.400
I have a horrible feeling.
01:25:22.120 --> 01:25:26.680
Fear, helplessness, hopelessness.
01:25:28.920 --> 01:25:31.920
This is how all my people are feeling right now.
01:25:32.840 --> 01:25:36.840
Every person who hears the
sound of bullets feels the same way.
01:25:38.200 --> 01:25:42.320
Children, fathers and mothers.
01:25:43.840 --> 01:25:46.840
We are all helpless.
01:25:49.480 --> 01:25:54.280
I am far from the airport.
01:25:54.920 --> 01:25:59.600
I can't imagine how people
who are closer to the airport feel.