Two Afternoons in the Kabul Stadium

Discover the fascinating narrative woven within 'Two Afternoons in the Kabul Stadium,' a compelling exploration of Afghanistan's rich history through powerful imagery. This remarkable book contrasts the vibrancy of women's roles in Afghan culture from the late 1950s, when women donned modern Western attire at a landmark independence celebration, to the tragic events of 1999 under Taliban rule. Tim Bonyhady combines stunning photographs and art to offer deep insights into Afghan society, highlighting striking contrasts—from traditional chadaris to contemporary mini-skirts and the haunting story of Zarmeena, a woman who became a poignant symbol of oppression. This visually captivating 352-page trade paperback, published by The Text Publishing Company, is essential for anyone interested in history, gender studies, and the cultural evolution of Afghanistan. With a comprehensive view of women's rights in Afghanistan, 'Two Afternoons in the Kabul Stadium' serves as a vital resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, offering a unique lens through which to understand the complexities of Afghan heritage and modernity. Experience the juxtaposition of hope and despair, tradition and progress in this essential addition to your reading collection.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781922330758
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2021
Publisher: The Text Publishing Company
Pages: 352


Description:
From the complete coverage of chadaris to mini-skirts, and back again. From ancient carpet designs to woven depictions of tanks and Kalashnikovs. From photographs of unveiled women to an image of horror-the execution of a kneeling woman known as Zaremeena, videoed covertly by one of the few watching women. This remarkable book provides a history of Afghanistan through the visual.

The Kabul Stadium looms large because it was there, one afternoon in August 1959, that women first appeared in western dress at a celebration of Afghanistan's independence-a turning point, not only for women in Afghanistan's cities but also for the country itself, symbolising its embrace of the modern. It was also there, one afternoon in November 1999, that the Taliban killed Zarmeena.

Two Afternoons in the Kabul Stadium offers both a new way of seeing Afghanistan and a new way of understanding it.

Tim Bonyhady's books include the award-winning Good Living Street, The Colonial Earth and The Enchantment of the Long-haired Rat. He has curated two landmark exhibitions of Afghan war rugs.