Reviving the Attan: Afghanistan’s National Dance

Published: Dec. 11, 2014, 6:01 p.m.

Banned under the Taliban, the centuries old Afghan dance known as the Attan is flourishing once again. A traditional dance with it’s origins buried deep within Afghan history, the Attan was once a Pashtun specialty but is now performed by Afghans of all tribes for various occasions. We speak to a group of young Attan dancers about the history of the dance and how it makes them feel. They perform the Attan upon a mountain top, taking in some of Afghanistan’s most colourful autumnal scenery. Teaser: Banned under the Taliban, the centuries old Afghan dance known as the Attan is flourishing once again.