Afghanistan is a country of many tribes separated or unified by ethnic base, language and geographic extremes. Bringing unity to the country under a new government is a daunting task, demanding fair and balanced acknowledgment of its diversity. As part of nation building, a common ground must be found, a rally point so to speak, that brings people together allowing them to bridge past their differences and stand as a unified mass. In western nation states, those elements of cohesion are often rooted in national flags and anthems.

Ironically, with all of its difference and diversity, Afghanistan already has what appears to be its own national anthem. A dance, taught to all males, regardless of region, tribe or ethnic origin. Perhaps it not an anthem Afghanistan needs, but a shift in thought as to what a national anthem should be. Afghanistan is rich in history, ancient by standards of the West. Yet woven into it's history exists what seems to be a unique thread that ties this social quilt together.

As the graduation of Kandek 50 came to a close, a drum master lead his troop of men in a performance of what he himself called Afghanistan's national anthem. A loosely cho-reographed expression of unity and manhood, with the men all clad in traditional white dress and sashes fashioned from the colors of the national flag. An anthem not of words and notes, but of movement and the rhythm of a sacred drum.

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Copyright, Scott Kesterson- 2006

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