Taliban Suspends Chess in Afghanistan, Sparking Cultural and Religious Controversy - (2025)

Updated: 11/06/2025

Amidst the backdrop of the Taliban's rule in Afghanistan, a recent decision has stirred controversy and raised concerns among the populace. The Taliban authorities have recently made the decision to suspend the game of chess across the country, citing religious concerns related to gambling. This move, which has been met with mixed reactions, stems from the belief that chess constitutes a form of gambling, which is strictly forbidden under the government's morality laws. The implications of this decision extend beyond the realm of sports and leisure activities, touching upon broader issues of cultural expression and individual freedoms.

The Decision and Its Justification

The suspension of chess in Afghanistan, as announced by the Taliban government, is a part of the broader push to enforce laws and regulations in line with its austere interpretation of Islamic law. According to Atal Mashwani, a spokesperson for the sports directorate, chess has been deemed as a means of gambling under sharia law. This categorization falls under the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice law introduced in the previous year, which prohibits activities associated with gambling.

As Mashwani highlighted, there are significant religious considerations associated with the sport of chess that necessitated its suspension. The decision reflects the Taliban's commitment to upholding a strict interpretation of Islamic principles and guidelines concerning leisure activities and recreational pursuits. By targeting chess as a form of gambling, the authorities have aimed to align sporting practices with their religious and moral framework, thereby shaping the cultural landscape of the country.

Impact on the Chess Community

The directive to suspend chess in Afghanistan has reverberated through the local chess community, affecting not only players but also businesses that have been closely associated with the game. Azizullah Gulzada, the owner of a cafe in Kabul that hosted informal chess competitions, expressed his dismay over the decision. Despite denying any instances of gambling during these chess gatherings, Gulzada emphasized the social and recreational value of chess as a popular pastime in Afghanistan.

For Gulzada and others in similar positions, the suspension of chess represents not only a loss of revenue but also a disruption to the social fabric of the community. The cafe served as a hub for chess enthusiasts to gather, interact, and engage in friendly competitions, fostering a sense of camaraderie and intellectual stimulation. With the prohibition of chess, these individuals have found themselves grappling with the void left by the absence of a beloved game that once provided solace and companionship.

Broader Implications and Past Precedents

While the suspension of chess may seem like a singular event, it is emblematic of a broader trend where the Taliban authorities have imposed restrictions on various sports and recreational activities. In the past year, women have been effectively barred from participating in sports, depriving them of avenues for physical activity and social engagement. Moreover, free fighting sports like mixed martial arts (MMA) were also prohibited under the pretext of being too violent and conflicting with sharia principles.

This pattern of imposing restrictions on sports and leisure activities reflects the government's efforts to assert its authority and shape societal norms in accordance with its interpretation of Islamic law. The curtailment of chess and other sports not only limits individuals' access to recreational outlets but also underscores the broader struggle for personal freedoms and autonomy in a society undergoing significant transformation under Taliban rule.

As Afghanistan navigates the complexities of life under the Taliban regime, the suspension of chess stands as a poignant symbol of the shifting cultural landscape and the challenges faced by individuals seeking to find spaces of expression and connection. The decision raises questions about the balance between religious dictates and personal freedoms, highlighting the intricate interplay between tradition, recreation, and individual agency in a society undergoing profound change.

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