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Saba Sahar
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Saba Sahar: The Voice of Afghan Women in Cinema

Saba Sahar Saba Sahar was born in the 1980s in Afghanistan, during a period of political instability and social unrest. She grew up in a traditional Afghan family that valued education, but like many girls of her generation, she faced significant restrictions due to cultural norms and the Taliban’s policies that limited women’s participation in public life. From a young age, Saba displayed a strong interest in storytelling, acting, and visual arts. Despite limited access to formal arts education, she pursued her passion independently, reading books on cinema, studying scripts, and practicing acting at home. Her early exposure to Afghan culture, poetry, and traditional storytelling deeply influenced her artistic vision. After completing her basic education, she sought opportunities to formally train in media and filmmaking. Saba Sahar’s determination and courage allowed her to overcome societal and political barriers, eventually becoming one of Afghanistan’s first professional female filmmakers following the fall of the Taliban. Career Achievements Impact and Legacy Saba Sahar’s journey is a story of courage, resilience, and vision. She has transformed Afghan cinema by highlighting women’s struggles, rights, and achievements.Her influence extends beyond the screen: she has empowered countless Afghan women to pursue careers in the arts, become storytellers, and challenge societal norms. Saba Sahar is more than a filmmaker; she is a trailblazer, mentor, and advocate for Afghan women, proving that art can be a powerful tool for social change and empowerment. Challenges and Social Obstacles Despite her talent and dedication, Saba Sahar has faced numerous challenges throughout her career. During the Taliban regime, women were barred from cultural and artistic activities, making it almost impossible for women to enter cinema. Even after the fall of the Taliban, she encountered: Through determination, courage, and creativity, Saba Sahar overcame these obstacles, proving that art and cinema can challenge societal barriers and inspire change.

Fereshteh Forough
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Fereshteh Forough: Coding the Future of Afghan Girls

Fereshteh Forough: Inspiring Hope and Empowering Afghan Girls Through Technology Amid challenges and obstacles, a generation of creative and determined women has emerged in Afghanistan, proving that no limitation can stop willpower and talent. Fereshteh Forough is one of the most prominent of these figures — a woman whose knowledge, creativity, and forward-looking vision opened a new and inspiring path for Afghan girls. She demonstrated that technology and education can be powerful tools to empower women, and that every girl can play an active role in society and shape her country’s future through learning digital skills and programming. By providing real opportunities for education, financial independence, and self-confidence, Fereshteh Forough illuminated a path of hope and paved the way for development, innovation, and active participation of women in scientific and technological fields. This path proves that even in difficult circumstances, hope, courage, and knowledge can build a bright and promising future. Education and Early Life of Fereshteh Forough Fereshteh Forough was born in the 1360 Afghan Solar Hijri year (1985 CE) into an Afghan family. Her childhood was marked by migration and living under difficult conditions in Iran, where many Afghan refugees were denied the right to education and employment. Despite these challenges, she was passionate about learning, reading, and personal growth from an early age. Obstacles could not extinguish her thirst for knowledge. After returning to Afghanistan with her family, Fereshteh entered Herat University and pursued a degree in Computer Science. Her strong grasp of mathematics and her interest in technology prepared her for the digital world. After completing her studies in Afghanistan, she earned her Master’s degree from Technische Universität Berlin (Technical University of Berlin). Instead of choosing easier paths abroad, she decided to return to Afghanistan to share her knowledge with young girls. She understood that Afghan women faced numerous barriers to entering the technology field, from cultural pressures to limited educational opportunities. Code to Inspire: Empowering Afghan Girls Through Programming In 2015, Fereshteh Forough founded Code to Inspire in Herat — the first programming school dedicated exclusively to girls in Afghanistan. The institute was established to teach digital skills such as programming, web design, application development, and cybersecurity. Its mission was not only to provide girls with tools to access jobs and financial independence but also to challenge societal perceptions of women’s roles. In a society where girls’ education had long been restricted, Code to Inspire offered them the courage to break traditional barriers and enter what was once considered a male-dominated field. The school enabled Afghan girls to develop critical thinking and creativity in a digital environment. Each student begins with a simple computer but progresses to a world of opportunities and innovation. They learn to turn ideas into reality by writing code, designing websites and applications, and protecting projects with cybersecurity skills. However, the impact of Code to Inspire goes beyond technical education. The institute created a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment that boosted girls’ confidence and helped them recognize that: “A woman’s place is not only at home; she belongs in offices, tech teams, international projects, and at the forefront of national progress.” Through its programs, many graduates have not only achieved financial independence but have become role models for future generations. Girls who once lived in silence and fear now write code, design, innovate, and build a brighter future for Afghanistan. The institute demonstrated that technology can be the most powerful weapon against inequality. Each young programmer emerges not only to secure her own career but also to change society’s perception of women, advocate for the right to education, and contribute to a more prosperous nation. Fereshteh Forough believed that if Afghan girls had access to modern education, they could shape their destiny. She aimed to create a safe space where girls could learn programming, graphic design, app development, and cybersecurity without fear of judgment or discrimination. Many graduates now work remotely for international companies, earning an independent income for themselves and their families — a remarkable achievement in a country where women are often barred from public participation. Advocating for Women’s Education and Participation Fereshteh Forough strongly believes that education and technology are the most powerful tools against ignorance and discrimination. She has repeatedly said: “If we want a prosperous society, we must give women the opportunity to learn, create, and lead.” After the Taliban regained control in Afghanistan, many girls’ schools and educational centers were closed. However, Fereshteh Forough did not give up. She launched online and remote learning programs to ensure that the light of education remained on for her students. This action demonstrates her conviction that knowledge cannot be imprisoned, even when physical barriers exist between teacher and student. Global Recognition and Achievements Fereshteh Forough’s efforts have gained international recognition. She has spoken at conferences and global forums such as TED Talks, the United Nations, and various women in technology events. She has received numerous awards and recognitions from reputable organizations and media outlets, including being listed among the 100 Most Influential Women by the BBC and featured in Forbes and TIME. Yet, she considers her greatest reward to be “seeing the smiles and progress of my students.” Philosophy and Message Fereshteh Forough believes that education not only opens doors to the future but also fosters dignity and self-confidence. She has inspired thousands of Afghan girls who once thought their place was only at home to now write code in global companies and turn their dreams into reality. She says: “When you give an Afghan girl an opportunity, she doesn’t just change her own life; she changes the future of her community.” Fereshteh Forough stands as a shining example of a woman who, through knowledge, determination, and love for her country, has redefined the meaning of empowerment. She proved that change begins with education and that technology can be a ladder toward freedom, independence, and progress. Today, she is not only a tech educator but a symbol of hope for a new generation of Afghan women —

Roya Sadat
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Roya Sadat: The Herati Woman Who Transformed Afghan Cinema

Biography of Roya Sadat Roya Sadat was born in 1981 in the historic city of Herat. From a young age, she was passionate about art, storytelling, and cinema. However, during the Taliban regime, women were forbidden from participating in cultural and artistic activities. Despite these restrictions, Roya pursued learning screenwriting and filmmaking through self-study and personal effort. She completed her education in law and political science, but her love for cinema changed the course of her life. After the fall of the Taliban, she became one of the first women to enter the professional film industry in Afghanistan and used her works to amplify the voices of Afghan women worldwide. Roya Sadat is the founder of Roya Film House and has produced dozens of successful films, documentaries, and TV series to date. In addition to her artistic work, she is recognized as an advocate for women’s rights and for teaching art to Afghan girls. In a country where women have faced years of restrictions and discrimination, the name Roya Sadat shines like a light in the darkness. Hailing from Herat, she has become one of Afghanistan’s most influential cultural and artistic figures through her talent, courage, and determination. Roya is not only a successful director and screenwriter but also a voice for the silent women of Afghanistan—a woman who has used cinema as a tool to express reality, pain, and hope. Early Life and Artistic Journey Roya Sadat was born in the historic city of Herat, a city long known as a hub of culture, poetry, and art. Her interest in storytelling and cinema began during her teenage years. At a time when access to cinema education was limited and opportunities for women in art were scarce, Roya boldly chose a different path. She completed her studies in law and political science but pursued filmmaking independently. After the fall of the Taliban, she became one of the first women to professionally enter the cinema industry, producing films focused on women’s experiences and helping to break social taboos. Artistic Works and Achievements Roya Sadat’s filmography includes remarkable works, each reflecting the struggles, challenges, and strengths of Afghan women. Some of her most notable works include: These works are not only artistically outstanding but also convey messages of justice, resilience, and hope for Afghan women. Artistic Philosophy of Roya Sadat Roya Sadat believes that cinema can be a language of change. She uses film to tell stories often ignored in society—stories of women, poverty, injustice, and discrimination.In her interviews, she has repeatedly said: “I make films because I want to be a voice for those whose voices are not heard.” For her, art is a tool for cultural resistance—resistance not with weapons but through images, sound, and storytelling. Roya Sadat’s Role in Advancing Afghan Women Through the establishment of Roya Film House in Herat, Roya Sadat has provided training and employment opportunities for dozens of young women in technical and artistic fields.By organizing workshops on directing, cinematography, and screenwriting, she has played a key role in educating a new generation of Afghan female filmmakers.She is also a cultural activist, advocating for Afghan women’s rights internationally, and has received numerous awards, including the U.S. Department of State’s International Women of Courage Award. Challenges and Obstacles Roya Sadat’s artistic journey has not been easy. She has faced threats, censorship, and social pressures but has never abandoned her mission to depict the realities of society.Many of her films have been produced with limited resources but with a heart full of faith in culture and art. Roya Sadat, a woman from Herat, symbolizes talent, courage, and innovation in Afghan art. She has shown that a woman can narrate history through her camera and inspire a new generation with hope.Afghan cinema is undoubtedly indebted to women like her—women who not only make films but also write new pages in the cultural history of their country with every work they create.

History of Handicrafts in Herat
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Handicrafts and Traditional Arts of Herat: A Living Heritage

Handicrafts and Traditional Arts of Herat Herat, one of Afghanistan’s oldest cities and the cultural gem of the country’s west, is renowned not only for its magnificent architecture and rich history but also as a center of unique handicrafts and traditional arts. These crafts, passed down from generation to generation, not only display beauty and precision but also preserve the cultural and historical identity of the people of Herat. Every piece created by Herat’s artisans tells a story of skill, creativity, and ancient tradition. History of Handicrafts in Herat The handicrafts of Herat have deep roots in centuries of experience, Islamic culture, and cross-cultural exchange. Herat’s geographical position along the ancient Silk Road made it a hub for artistic exchange between East and West, where diverse artistic techniques blended with local traditions. As a result, Herat’s handicrafts reflect the fusion of history, culture, and craftsmanship that defines the region. Types of Handicrafts in Herat Herat is home to a wide variety of handmade crafts, each reflecting the creativity and cultural identity of its people. Some of the most significant include: Herat Carpets and Kilims: Known for their unique patterns and colors, Herat carpets are not only beautiful but also durable and valuable. Each design tells a story of the region’s cultural heritage. Khatam and Wood Inlay Work: Wooden and metal crafts, decorated with intricate details, showcase the high level of skill among Herat’s craftsmen. These are used as decorative pieces or gifts. Pottery and Ceramics: Decorative and functional pottery items with traditional motifs and vibrant colors display the artistry of Herat’s potters. Textiles and Traditional Clothing: The colorful fabrics and traditional garments of Herat are not only aesthetically pleasing but also reflect the cultural identity and heritage of the region’s people. Cultural and Economic Importance The handicrafts of Herat play a vital role in preserving the city’s cultural and historical identity. Each handmade product — whether a carpet, ceramic, or woodwork — carries the values, stories, and traditions of the Herati people. Economically, handicrafts are a major source of income for many local families. Local shops, seasonal bazaars, exhibitions, and even online sales platforms offer opportunities to promote and sell these products both nationally and internationally. Thus, Herat’s crafts hold both cultural and economic significance for the region. Challenges and Solutions Despite their importance, Herat’s handicrafts face several challenges: Proposed Solutions: The handicrafts and traditional arts of Herat are a living and invaluable heritage that connects the city’s past, culture, and identity to the present. Preserving and promoting these arts is not only about safeguarding traditions but also about creating economic opportunities and enhancing tourism. Every handmade piece from Herat is more than just a product — it is a living story of history, culture, and craftsmanship.

Types of Coffee Drinks and Their Delicious Ingredients
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Types of Coffee Drinks and Their Delicious Ingredients

Types of Coffee Drinks and Their Delicious Ingredients Coffee is not just a beverage; it’s an experience, an aroma, and a journey through the cultures of the world. Every cup of coffee tells its own story, and each type, with its special combination of coffee, milk, chocolate, and ice, offers a unique experience. Today, let’s explore the fascinating world of coffee and get to know the ingredients and flavors of each type. Espresso: The Heart of Coffee If we want to start from the beginning, we cannot ignore espresso. Espresso is a strong, aromatic coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee. This short but powerful drink is the base of many popular coffees like cappuccino and latte. A small shot of espresso can boost your energy and refresh your day. Ingredients: Turkish Coffee: Tradition and Aroma of the Middle East Turkish coffee is one of the oldest methods of preparing coffee in the world. It is made by boiling very finely ground coffee with cold or hot water in a small coffee pot called a “cezve,” with a thick foam indicating its quality. Turkish coffee has a rich and deep flavor, and a little sugar can create a delightful balance. Ingredients: Mocha: Chocolate and Coffee Love If you love the combination of chocolate and coffee, mocha is the perfect choice. It combines espresso, hot chocolate, and steamed milk with soft milk foam, offering a sweet and creamy experience. Mocha is perfect for a delightful morning or a cozy evening. Ingredients: Cappuccino: Balance Between Bitterness and Sweetness Cappuccino, with an approximate ratio of one-third espresso, one-third steamed milk, and one-third milk foam, is a balanced and classic drink. The bitterness of coffee combined with the smoothness of milk creates a delightful experience. Often served in the morning with light pastries, it can be topped with cocoa or cinnamon powder. Ingredients: Latte: Softness and Sweetness in Every Sip Latte is similar to cappuccino but with more milk; a shot of espresso with a large amount of steamed milk and a thin layer of milk foam on top. Its mild and creamy flavor makes it a favorite for those who prefer less bitter coffee. Latte art on the milk foam adds beauty and creativity to the drink. Ingredients: Americano: Simple and Classic Americano is made by diluting espresso with hot water, offering a lighter flavor similar to regular brewed coffee. If you want a drink with the aroma of espresso but not too bitter, Americano is a great choice. Ingredients: Macchiato and Flat White: Special Coffee Styles Cold Drinks: Frappe and Iced Latte Ristretto and Affogato: Intense and Unique Experiences Mochaccino: Chocolatey and Creamy Similar to mocha but with more milk foam and a creamier flavor. Perfect for those who love sweet and chocolatey drinks. Ingredients: Choosing Your Coffee The world of coffee is full of variety, and each type offers a unique experience. If you prefer strong and bitter flavors, espresso, Turkish coffee, and ristretto are ideal. If you enjoy sweet and creamy tastes, try mocha, latte, and mochaccino. Cold drinks like frappe and iced latte are perfect for summer and hot days. Coffee is not just a beverage; it’s a delightful cultural experience that tells a new story with every cup. Next time you drink coffee, take a moment to savor the taste, aroma, and the story behind each type.

Cultural Influences in Modern Society: Balancing Tradition and Change
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Cultural Influences in Modern Society: Balancing Tradition and Change

The Intersection of Tradition and Modernity In today’s fast-paced world, traditional culture often meets modern lifestyles. Ancient customs, beliefs, and practices shape how communities live, even in the face of globalization and technological advancements. Understanding the influence of traditional culture on modern society helps preserve identity while embracing progress. The Role of Traditional Culture in Daily Life Traditional culture manifests in many aspects of everyday life: Challenges of Preserving Cultural Identity in the Modern World Modernization and globalization bring both opportunities and challenges: Strategies for Balancing Tradition and Modern Life Benefits of Preserving Cultural Identity Maintaining traditional culture in modern society provides numerous advantages: Conclusion: Embracing Modernity While Honoring Tradition The influence of traditional culture in modern life is undeniable. While globalization and modern technologies create challenges, they also provide opportunities to share and celebrate cultural heritage. By consciously preserving customs, arts, and values, societies can achieve a balance between tradition and change, ensuring that cultural identity remains strong for future generations.

Historical Stories and Local Heroes
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Historical Stories and Local Heroes: A Legacy for the Present

Historical Stories and Local Heroes Every society needs to revisit its past in order to understand its roots and identity. Historical stories and tales of local heroes are not only an essential part of cultural heritage but also a source of inspiration for future generations. Whether in the form of oral traditions or written records, these stories play a vital role in transmitting values, strengthening collective identity, and fostering national pride. Historical Narratives: A Bridge Between Past and Present In many cultures, historical stories were passed down through bedtime tales, storytelling in teahouses, or local folk songs. Beyond entertainment, these narratives carried moral, social, and even political messages. In Afghanistan and our wider region, a rich oral history exists, transmitted from generation to generation through grandmothers, local poets, and community storytellers. Local Heroes: Symbols of Courage and Resistance Local heroes are often individuals who stood up for justice, freedom, or the well-being of their communities in difficult times. Sometimes they are real historical figures; other times they are represented as mythical or legendary characters. Cultural and Social Role of These Stories Historical stories and local heroes are not merely remnants of the past but guiding lights for the future. They remind us how communities have resisted hardships and upheld values such as freedom, justice, and courage. Preserving and retelling these narratives not only keeps our cultural heritage alive but also connects new generations with hope, resilience, and a sense of national identity. Sample Story: “Malalai of Maiwand” In Afghan history, one of the most notable local heroes is Malalai of Maiwand. She was a young woman from Kandahar who played a crucial role in the Battle of Maiwand (1880) between Afghan forces and the British army. When the morale of Afghan soldiers was low and many were retreating, Malalai courageously took up the flag and recited a heroic poem that inspired the fighters to return to battle. Her bravery reinvigorated the troops, and the Afghan forces continued fighting until victory was achieved. Since then, Malalai has become a symbol of courage and resilience, inspiring generations to stand against oppression.

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Agricultural Traditions and Seasonal Festivals

Agricultural Traditions and Seasonal Festivals Agriculture has long been not only an economic activity but also an inseparable part of people’s social and cultural lives. Every stage of planting and harvesting was accompanied by special rituals and ceremonies that gradually turned into agricultural traditions. Alongside these traditions, seasonal festivals emerged, creating a connection between farmers’ hard work and collective joy. This article explores the roots, significance, and role of agricultural traditions and seasonal festivals in the past and present. Agricultural Traditions in Local Culture Historical Roots of Traditional Agriculture In many regions, agriculture was practiced with unique customs and rituals. Before the planting season began, farmers would hold prayer ceremonies to seek rain and fertility from nature. Farming tools, the land, and even seeds were considered sacred. The Role of Collective Work in Agricultural Traditions A key aspect of traditional farming was cooperation. Neighbors helped each other with planting, irrigation, and harvesting. Over time, these acts of collaboration turned into social and cultural customs. Seasonal Festivals: Celebrating Joy After Hard Work Spring Festival: A New Beginning With the arrival of spring and the sowing of new seeds, people welcomed the farming year with local music, traditional foods, and symbolic ceremonies. Harvest Festival The most important agricultural celebration was the harvest festival. After months of hard work, farmers gathered their crops and celebrated their success with thanksgiving, festivities, and dancing. This event often included sharing food, performing folk dances, and reciting poetry. Autumn and Winter Festivals In autumn and winter, besides storing produce, people held thanksgiving celebrations and special ceremonies for harvesting fruits and grains. Social and Cultural Importance of Agricultural Festivals Agricultural Traditions and Seasonal Festivals in the Modern World Despite the introduction of modern farming technologies, many of these rituals still survive. Today, agricultural festivals not only preserve cultural values but also serve as tourist attractions, drawing visitors to rural areas each year. These events also provide opportunities to boost local economies and promote traditional handicrafts and foods. Agricultural traditions and seasonal festivals are not only reflections of humanity’s deep connection with nature but also cultural heritage that must be preserved for future generations. These customs symbolize hard work, cooperation, and collective joy, and they continue to inspire social and cultural life today.

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Languages and Local Dialects of Herat

Languages and Local Dialects of Herat Herat, one of the oldest cities in the Islamic world and a major center of civilization in Greater Khorasan, has long been a hub of cultural and linguistic diversity. Its geographic location at the crossroads of Iran, Central Asia, and Afghanistan has led to the development of various languages and dialects that continue to thrive today. Language in Herat serves not only as a daily communication tool but also as an inseparable part of the city’s cultural and historical identity. 1. Dari Persian: The Main and Cultural Language The dominant language in Herat is Dari Persian. It is used in homes, markets, schools, universities, and the media. Features of Herati Persian: Role of Literature in Herat’s Language Historically known as the “City of Science and Literature,” Herat has produced literary giants like Jami, Abdi Beg Shirazi, and Kamaluddin Behzad. Persian literature holds a special place in Herat, and the local language is rich in idioms and proverbs. 2. Local Persian Dialects in Herat’s Villages Surrounding villages each have unique dialects: This diversity makes Herat a rich linguistic mosaic. 3. Pashto Language in Herat A large Pashtun population lives in districts such as Ghorian, Adraskan, and Zinda Jan. 4. Turkic Languages (Turkmen and Uzbek) Turkmen: Uzbek: 5. Language and Ethnic-Religious Identity 6. Historical Influences on Herat’s Language Herat’s languages have been shaped by various cultures and civilizations over centuries 7. Examples of Herati Vocabulary These examples show that the Herati dialect, while Persian, carries a distinct local flavor. 8. The Role of Language in Herati Identity The people of Herat take pride in their language and dialect. The Herati accent symbolizes the city’s civilization, culture, and history. It holds a special place among Persian speakers in Afghanistan. Even local songs and melodies are cherished for the sweetness of the dialect. Conclusion Herat’s linguistic landscape combines Dari Persian, local dialects, Pashto, Turkmen, Uzbek, and Hazaragi. Among this diversity, Herati Persian remains the core of communication and culture. This linguistic richness is not a threat to social cohesion but a symbol of cultural wealth and historical coexistence.

Legends and Folk Tales of Herat
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Legends and Folk Tales of Herat

1. Legends and Folk Tales of Herat Herat, one of the oldest centers of civilization in the region, in addition to its rich history and stunning architecture, holds a treasure trove of oral culture. The legends and folk tales that the people of this city have inherited from past generations were not only meant for entertainment but also conveyed moral, social, and religious lessons. These stories were heard during evening gatherings, family circles, coffeehouses, and even in people’s daily activities. Each tale and legend reflects the beliefs, aspirations, and fears of the people, which makes them particularly valuable. 2. Definition of Legend and Tale Legend: A story that mainly has roots in imagination and fantasy. Legends usually feature characters such as demons, fairies, dragons, magical creatures, or extraordinary places. While legends primarily aim to entertain and spark the audience’s imagination, they also carry instructive messages beneath their fantastical exterior. Tale: In contrast, a tale relies more on reality. Its characters are ordinary humans, such as a wise elder, a simple farmer, an orphaned child, or a poor merchant. Tales often include moral lessons or religious teachings and are inspired by the real-life experiences of people. 3. Difference Between Legend and Tale Imagination vs. Reality: Legends are full of imaginary creatures and unreal events, whereas tales are generally closer to real life. Heroes: In a legend, a hero might fight a dragon or a demon, while in a tale, the hero is an ordinary person who overcomes challenges through faith, intellect, or effort. Purpose: Legends primarily stimulate imagination, while tales convey social and moral messages. Setting and Time: Legends do not usually specify a precise location or time (e.g., “Once upon a time…”), but tales are typically set in familiar neighborhoods or villages known to the people. 4. A Famous Legend in Herat: The Legend of Takht Safdin It is said that in ancient times, there was a king in Herat named Safdin. In the beginning, he was a just and kind man. Whenever the people had a complaint or a right was violated, they would go to Safdin’s court. The king would listen carefully and grant justice to the rightful person. Safdin sat on a throne believed to be magical. It was said that this throne had come from the heavens, and its power depended on the king acting justly. Years passed, and Safdin gradually became attached to power and wealth. He stopped listening to the people’s complaints, gathered the tyrants and flatterers around him, and ignored the rights of the weak. Taxes grew heavier, and he even showed no mercy to the poor. The elders of the city repeatedly warned him:— “O King! Do not forget justice; your throne is bound to fairness.”But Safdin proudly replied:— “This throne is mine; no one can take me from it.” One early morning, as he sat on the throne with great splendor, the ground suddenly shook. A strange sound arose. The throne began to tremble. Before the astonished eyes of the people, the throne’s legs split, and a dark mouth opened beneath Safdin’s feet. The king shouted:— “Forgive me! I will be just again!”But it was too late. The throne swallowed him, and Safdin disappeared forever. From that day on, people say: “Takht Safdin swallows the unjust,” and this legend continues to live in Herat as a reminder that tyranny and injustice do not last. 5. A Famous Tale in Herat: The Tale of the Old Saddle-Maker In the old streets of Herat, there lived a poor but kind-hearted man whose trade was making saddles. He stitched saddles for donkeys and mules and earned a simple living from this work. Everyone respectfully called him the Old Saddle-Maker. Despite his poverty, the old man had a heart full of faith and peace. Whenever people were sad, they visited his small shop. With a smile and a few simple words, he would comfort them. One midnight, while he was busy sewing a saddle, the door suddenly opened. A wealthy man entered and placed a bag full of gold and silver on the floor. He said:— “O elder! All this wealth is yours, with only one condition: from tomorrow, abandon your prayers and do not mention God again.” The Old Saddle-Maker glanced at the bag of gold. He paused for a moment, then calmly said:— “O man! Your gold and silver are as fleeting as a shadow. The peace and faith that God has given me are worth more than a thousand treasure chests of gold.” The wealthy man suddenly became furious; his eyes turned red, and everyone realized that he was Satan himself. Satan tried to frighten the old man, but the elder raised his hands to the sky and recited a prayer. The shop filled with light, and Satan vanished into darkness. From that day onward, people told the tale of the Old Saddle-Maker to their children to teach them that true purity and faith are worth more than any wealth. Final Words The legends and folk tales of Herat are not merely entertaining stories; they are mirrors of the beliefs, aspirations, and values of the people. Legends, with their fantasy and wonder, and tales, with their closeness to real life, together create a living culture. This oral heritage must be documented and preserved so that future generations can benefit from it. Key Takeaways:

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