Aryana Sayeed: Afghanistan's Fearless Female Singer
Afghanistan has been a country torn apart by conflict and war for decades, but amidst all the chaos, there are individuals who continue to inspire and bring hope to their people. One such person is Aryana Sayeed, a fearless female singer who has captivated audiences not just in Afghanistan but also around the world with her soulful voice and indomitable spirit.
Aryana was born in Kabul in the eighties and grew up amidst the destruction caused by the civil war in Afghanistan. Despite the challenging circumstances, Aryana was passionate about music and began singing secretly at home. By the time she reached 18, she had already made a name for herself, defying the cultural norms and restrictions on women's singing in public.
In 2008, Aryana participated in the popular talent show "Afghan Star," which was the first time she performed in front of a national audience. She quickly became a fan favorite, but her bold and controversial performances also drew criticism from conservative elements in Afghan society. Nevertheless, Aryana continued to push boundaries and break stereotypes, becoming a symbol of hope and freedom for many young Afghans.
Over the years, Aryana has faced numerous threats and challenges for her music and activism. In 2017, she was targeted by a suicide bomber at a concert in Kabul, but she miraculously survived and vowed to continue her work despite the danger. She has also been a vocal advocate for women's rights and has used her platform to speak out against domestic violence, forced marriages, and other forms of gender-based violence in Afghanistan.
Aryana's music is a fusion of traditional Afghan folk and modern pop, and her lyrics often address social issues and political themes. Her hit song "Mashallah" is a tribute to Afghanistan's beauty and resilience, while "Yaar-e-Bamiyani" (Friend of Bamiyan) is a poignant tribute to the victims of the Taliban's destruction of the ancient Buddha statues in Bamiyan.
Despite the challenges she has faced, Aryana remains a beacon of hope for many Afghans, especially young women who look up to her as a role model. Her music has touched countless lives and has helped to bridge the cultural divide between Afghanistan and the rest of the world. She has also been recognized internationally for her work, receiving the "Women of Courage" award from the US State Department in 2015 and being named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people in 2020.
If you want to learn more about Aryana and her music, I highly recommend listening to this podcast episode that I recorded about her. It features some of her best songs and interviews with people who know her personally. Her story is truly inspiring, and I hope that it will inspire you as well.
Ep62. Aryana Sayeed - The Soundtrack of Resistance