Reports indicate that Afghan men are facing limited choices at the barbershop to avoid accusations of resembling Western trends or North Korean leaders. New rules, outlined in a six-point directive by the Taliban's Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, specify prohibited hairstyles and grooming practices. The guidelines prohibit haircuts considered reminiscent of "infidels" in the West or North Korea, echoing concerns raised by Azizul Rahman Mohajer, a regional official in Herat province.
The directives appear to target styles resembling those of North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, known for a shaved head on the sides and back with longer hair on top—a nod to his grandfather's hairstyle. These restrictions harken back to the Taliban's previous government (1996-2001), which also banned "foreign haircuts" inspired by celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio in Titanic or the Beatles' iconic mop top.
According to the recent rules, beards must be at least "one strand" long, and men's eyebrows are not to be trimmed. Barbers are instructed to refrain from playing music or displaying images promoting undesirable styles. It remains unclear if these regulations are exclusive to Herat or apply nationwide.
Afghan barbers expressed disbelief and concern, questioning the compatibility of the targeted styles with Islamic law and highlighting potential negative impacts on their businesses. The situation raises questions about the balance between cultural expression and adherence to the Taliban's interpretation of virtue and vice.
(With Agency Inputs)
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