National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇦🇫 Afghanistan

The national anthem of Afghanistan is called: « Milli Surood ».

Continent: Asia

Bordering Countries:
🇨🇳 China
🇮🇷 Iran (Islamic Republic of)
🇵🇰 Pakistan
🇹🇯 Tajikistan
🇹🇲 Turkmenistan
🇺🇿 Uzbekistan

History of « Milli Surood »

« Milli Surood » (National Anthem) is the national anthem of Afghanistan. The anthem reflects the country’s diverse cultural heritage, its aspirations for unity, and the enduring spirit of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 2006: The lyrics of « Milli Surood » were written by Abdul Bari Jahani, a prominent Afghan poet and writer. The anthem was composed by Babrak Wassa, an Afghan composer.
  • 2004: The new Afghan constitution mandated the creation of a new national anthem that would include references to the country’s ethnic groups and Islamic faith.
  • 2006: « Milli Surood » was officially adopted as the national anthem of Afghanistan, replacing the previous anthem « Fortress of Islam, Heart of Asia. »

Anecdotes

  • Ethnic Inclusion: The anthem was designed to reflect Afghanistan’s ethnic diversity. It includes references to various ethnic groups such as Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras, Uzbeks, and others, promoting a sense of unity and inclusiveness.
  • Islamic Faith: The lyrics also emphasize the Islamic faith, which is a significant aspect of Afghan identity. The anthem begins with the phrase « This land is Afghanistan, » followed by praises to Allah and the Prophet Muhammad.
  • Cultural Significance: « Milli Surood » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Afghan people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Afghans.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Pashto

دا وطن افغانستان دی
دا عزت د هر افغان دی
کور د سولې کور د توري
هر بچی یې قهرمان دی

دا وطن د ټولو کور دی
د بلوڅو د ازبکو
د پښتون او هزاره وو
د ترکمنو د تاجکو

ورسره عرب، ګوجر دي
پامیریان، نورستانیان
براهوی دي، قزلباش دي
هم ایماق، هم پشه یان

دا هیواد به تل ځلیږي
لکه لمر پر شنه آسمان
په سینه کې د آسیا به
لکه زړه وي جاویدان

In English (translation)

This land is Afghanistan,
It is the pride of every Afghan,
The land of peace, the land of the sword,
Its sons are all brave.

This is the country of all tribes,
Of Baloch and Uzbeks,
Of Pashtuns and Hazaras,
Of Turkmen and Tajiks.

Along with them, there are Arabs and Gujjars,
Pamiris, Nuristanis,
Brahuis, and Qizilbash,
Also Aimaqs and Pashais.

This country will shine forever,
Like the sun in the blue sky,
In the chest of Asia,
It will remain as the heart forever.

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