If the saying ‘Phir bhi dil hai Hindustani’ were a person, British R&B artiste Rishi Rich would be it. With one foot in London and another in Mumbai, this ‘Gully Boy’ collaborator is still navigating the enigma that is India.

If the saying ‘Phir bhi dil hai Hindustani’ were a person, British R&B artiste Rishi Rich would be it. With one foot in London and another in Mumbai, this ‘Gully Boy’ collaborator is still navigating the enigma that is India. One rhythm, one blues at a time. “I have always wanted to infuse my different cultures, something I have done with ‘Gully boy’ and ‘Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas’,” he says from his apartment home in the city of dreams. He assures us that as the founding member of The Rishi Rich Project—that had introduced the idea of desi fusion to many—he may have lost touch with the others who had constituted the crew, but not Jay Sean. In an exclusive chat with WION, the celebrated musician talks about his association with Netflix’s in-house baddie ‘Bad Boy Billionaires: India’, his penchant for (musical) perfection, and of course, his camaraderie with ‘brother’ Jay Sean. Excerpts from the conversation: WION: To put it simply, ‘Zakham’ is Bollywood-meets-Brooklyn. What prompted this British boy to seek inspiration from the streets of Brooklyn? What’s the story? RR: I’ve always been inspired by hip hop and R&B and obviously, Hindi music. And when I heard the original song from Zakham I just had to sample it. I have a great working relationship with Ishtar Music and they love how I sample music. So it was a no brainer. With Zakham, once the sample was placed and the foundation of the beat made… I just knew that an Indian American Rapper would be the only kind of artist to do it justice and that’s why I called up Rush Toor. Though it took me a little while to get the feel and vibe right, I’m pleased how it’s all come together! WION: You have created the background music (BGM) for Netflix’s mammoth success ‘Bad Boy Billionaires: India’. In what ways was that experience different from making extended plays (EPs) and even full-length albums? RR: I think when working on score and title music there is a different approach to working on the music. You have to capture those fleeting moments of emotion, passion, fear… the music has to bring what’s happening on screen to life. It’s a big responsibility! Whereas working on singles and albums is more based around what the artist wants or how I want to sound, so the execution and vision is different I would say. But, Scoring film and BGM is something which is always something I’ve loved doing and I’m working on some exciting new projects for the same. WION: For someone who has lived in India for a few seconds, you seem to be making (and getting nominated for!) a lot of music here in Bollywood. How do you imbibe your Indian roots into your western way of life and upbringing? RR: Being in India for the last five years has been such a wonderful creative experience. I’ve always wanted to live here and make music infusing my different cultures which is something I have done with films like Gully boy and Pal Pal Dil ke pass to name a few. Even prior to living in India, I have always tried to pour my culture, my roots into all my music. Even if you hear my doing a hip-hop song, you would still be able to feel the trails of my Indian culture and roots too. It’s a fusion. WION: In one of my earlier interviews with Jay Sean, I vividly remember him calling you a ‘brother for life’. What are your thoughts on him? RR: Ahh! We have an amazing relationship. We are brothers and have been through so much together. Our bond goes so much beyond music. So much so that now whenever we talk, we’re always talking about our future plans and what we want to do next. Working on Nakhre with him was so much fun and Jay as an artist never fails to impress me. He’s just a star! View this post on Instagram A post shared by RISHI RICH (@rishirich) × WION: India is experiencing a wave of change in its music scene: underground artists going main stream being a major one. Do you think showbiz changes the musician in a person? RR: Well I can only talk from personal experience and for me nothing should change you. It’s always about the music. And for me, it will always come down to that. Longevity is the key and remaining true to yourself and who you are, is what will keep you around in the long run! View this post on Instagram A post shared by RISHI RICH (@rishirich) ×

WION exclusive- British R&B artist Rishi Rich: Jay Sean and I have a relationship that goes beyond music

Straight shooters. High achievers. No-holds-barred interviewees. The Merchant brothers—popularly known as Salim-Sulaiman in Indian music industry—have no qualms about sharing space with other musicians. “(One) should get scared of the fame withering away only when you’re chasing it,” explains Sulaiman, matter-of-factly. They make music out of sheer passion for the art form and not the fame that comes along with the territory, they insist.

 
In an exclusive interview with WION, the award-winning music composer duo—one of the few musician brothers to be working in Bollywood—discuss working with 25 other artists on their upcoming indie album ‘Bhoomi 2021’, the ‘insecurities’ they never had, the sibling rivalry that never brewed and the tragedy that is Afghanistan.&nbsp;

 
Excerpts from WION’s conversation with the celebrated music composers. Read on:

 
WION: To be a successful music-composing duo in Bollywood and releasing all-inclusive albums year after year. How do you both manage to do that?

 
Salim: Music is our only passion and we feel like we can do so much more with music. We have done so many movies and released a lot of singles. It's a very interesting time in music to grow as a business. That only happens when you continually consistently make music and excel in what you do. It is only because of this commitment to ourselves that we launched our own Music Label "Merchant Records". We feel very proud to be able to create something that will change the rules and keep music alive.We want budding artists to be fearless with their compositions and create music from the heart for the soul. We don’t want them to worry about pressures or costs involved in creating and delivering a hit.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: Music for us is not a profession it is a passion And therefore it never feels like you’re working. Whether we are making music for Films or advertising or non-film albums like Bhoomi, it’s the passion that drives both Salim and me to keep making music and entertaining people.We don’t just want to make great music but want to go about it the right way. Our Music label Merchant Records is not only for Salim-Sulaiman and our objective and long-term vision is to invite the creative community of established, new, and emerging talent to co-create quality music.

 
WION: Talking about inclusion, your independent album ‘Bhoomi 2021’ has other contemporary musicians’ joining forces with you. Don’t you both experience what we call an ‘artist’s insecurity’?

 
Salim: First of all Bhoomi 2021 follows the successful grand chapter of Bhoomi 2020 in the ongoing musical movement that Salim-Sulaiman started 20 years ago. Bhoomi is getting bigger and bigger each year as we have participation from so many incredible artists from India. Last year we did Bhoomi 2020 very successfully. This time we have had the vision to not just keep the languages of North India but also go South. We've gone East and West as well. Bhoomi is not just a project which expresses musically and it's not just about our culture but also about our tradition, history, our environment and also our faith.

 
Sulaiman: There is absolutely no insecurity between composers. At some stage of our lives, all of us cooperate, collaborate , work together, produce music together, sing for each other and there's great camaraderie between us. Insecurity kicks in only when you feel unequal to someone and we have never had that vibe. As far as Bhoomi 2021 is concerned, as the name suggests, it is about the musical influences in terms of styles, melodies, and lyrics across our own “Bhoomi”. So, working with different musicians from the length and breadth of our country brings another layer of authenticity to the concept. That is why in our album we have included three beautiful composers namely Anurag Saikia, Ricky Kej , and Shor Police. Going forward we intend to do more. We want more artists to participate in Bhoomi so that way the movement becomes bigger and we get more diversity in the style of music. There's no question of insecurity as we are all happily creating music without any agenda or competition.

 
WION: One of the songs you have produced (with Harshdeep Kaur in vocals) is about the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. Since you talk about human tragedies in your music, what are your thoughts on the plight of Afghan artists fighting for life and artistic freedom?

 
Salim: I feel terrible about what Afghanistan as a country is going through. It is such a beautiful country with so much culture, tradition, artists and music but because of the current situation everyone is suffering. It's all gone back to hundreds of years behind. Art is one aspect but humanity has completely gone out of the window and that is something that is of a bigger concern.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: What’s unfolding in Afghanistan is tragic.Years of incremental progress appear to have been eroded in the blink of an eye. For a country with such a rich heritage and culture, this comes as a major setback. But, they’ve always been a resilient populace and I hope that they continue to dig deep and strive towards living as normal a life as possible. As part of the global community, we must do what we can to support them.

 
WION: You are to Bollywood what Russo brothers are to Hollywood—different genres, of course. But, have you ever felt sibling rivalry brewing between the two of you at any point in your career?

 
Salim: Sulaiman and I studied music together, we are always listening to music together, we were in bands together so it's only more powerful to have two instead of one. We don't have any sibling rivalry but when we make music, we have disagreements and arguments but ultimately music wins and that's the key to make good music and continue your relationship with your sibling and partner.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: Salim and I have been making music for the last 30 years. When you are brothers and partners especially when you’re doing something as creative as making music or performing together I don’t think rivalry even comes into the picture. We both have our strengths that we bring to the table. And we leave the insecurities and negative energies for other people.

<img alt="Salim-Sulaiman have made music for Chak De India, Fashion, Band Bajaa Baraat, Fashion, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi , Krrish 3, Ladies vs Ricky Bahl and many more" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1361e3de-67a9-404e-bb6b-9f1ffab4be94" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-10-17T162635.129.jpg" /> 
WION: A day will come when&nbsp;there will be fewer phone calls, lesser interview requests to attend. Does the inevitable withering away of fame leave you worried sick? What is fame to you, anyway?

 
Salim: Fame was never a criterion for us when we started to pursue music. I think we have a lot to yet achieve what we wanted to in music. Fame, Awards, Accolades was never our goal. We always want to make a good song and not a hit song. A hit song will come and go but a good song will be heard forever. We don't make music for fame or glory but we make music for happiness. Also remember that Love is bigger than anything else and is unquantifiable. It’s what keeps us grounded and motivated to do more. We are also deeply grateful to our gurus, mentors, and parents who have given us the knowledge, values, and humility - that gives us the strength, passion, and purpose to spread happiness, love, and peace through our music.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: You should get scared of the fame withering away only when you’re chasing it. We have never chased fame and in fact it came to us when we were busy enjoying our work. If you keep that in mind right at the onset, you will never feel any insecurity. I would rather have my music famous and popular because that will stay on forever. In today's times, the biggest blessing is the fact that we are safe and that God had been kind to us.

 
WION: Chak De India has been a National Sports anthem for a very long time now. How do you handle the pressure of creating another sports anthem 'Haq Se India' that has a similar kind of expectations from people given the mood is pretty much the same? For this latest number, how do you plan on outdoing yourself?

 
Salim: When creating music, we always strive to maintain balance between retaining musicality and bringing out powerful emotions at the same time. Haq Se India was a huge challenge because it was encompassing the World Cup which India won in 2007 which was a miraculous victory. Chak De was a huge celebration as the Indian team returned and the movie released in 2007. The film "Haq se India" captures the spirit of that victory 14 years later and now it's releasing just before the World Cup. It was a big high for us and a huge challenge so we wanted to go higher and capture that spirit that Chak De had.Chants of “Indiaaaa” in the backdrop, and the eventual hookline recreate a stadium-like vibe that only add to the adrenaline.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: We wanted to bring back the joyous spirit once again. We hope "Haq Se India” will evoke strong feelings of patriotism and inspire supporters to get behind the current squad; in the run-up to the upcoming tournament. We have tried to create a motivational track that captures elements of team spirit, passion, hard work, celebration, and joy. Amitabh Bhattacharya’s passionate lyrics leave one with goosebumps as Raj Pandit’s high notes bring the track to life.

Straight shooters. High achievers. No-holds-barred interviewees. The Merchant brothers—popularly known as Salim-Sulaiman in Indian music industry—have no qualms about sharing space with other musicians.

Straight shooters. High achievers. No-holds-barred interviewees. The Merchant brothers—popularly known as Salim-Sulaiman in Indian music industry—have no qualms about sharing space with other musicians. “(One) should get scared of the fame withering away only when you’re chasing it,” explains Sulaiman, matter-of-factly. They make music out of sheer passion for the art form and not the fame that comes along with the territory, they insist. In an exclusive interview with WION, the award-winning music composer duo—one of the few musician brothers to be working in Bollywood—discuss working with 25 other artists on their upcoming indie album ‘Bhoomi 2021’, the ‘insecurities’ they never had, the sibling rivalry that never brewed and the tragedy that is Afghanistan. Excerpts from WION’s conversation with the celebrated music composers. Read on: WION: To be a successful music-composing duo in Bollywood and releasing all-inclusive albums year after year. How do you both manage to do that? Salim: Music is our only passion and we feel like we can do so much more with music. We have done so many movies and released a lot of singles. It's a very interesting time in music to grow as a business. That only happens when you continually consistently make music and excel in what you do. It is only because of this commitment to ourselves that we launched our own Music Label "Merchant Records". We feel very proud to be able to create something that will change the rules and keep music alive.We want budding artists to be fearless with their compositions and create music from the heart for the soul. We don’t want them to worry about pressures or costs involved in creating and delivering a hit. Sulaiman: Music for us is not a profession it is a passion And therefore it never feels like you’re working. Whether we are making music for Films or advertising or non-film albums like Bhoomi, it’s the passion that drives both Salim and me to keep making music and entertaining people.We don’t just want to make great music but want to go about it the right way. Our Music label Merchant Records is not only for Salim-Sulaiman and our objective and long-term vision is to invite the creative community of established, new, and emerging talent to co-create quality music. WION: Talking about inclusion, your independent album ‘Bhoomi 2021’ has other contemporary musicians’ joining forces with you. Don’t you both experience what we call an ‘artist’s insecurity’? Salim: First of all Bhoomi 2021 follows the successful grand chapter of Bhoomi 2020 in the ongoing musical movement that Salim-Sulaiman started 20 years ago. Bhoomi is getting bigger and bigger each year as we have participation from so many incredible artists from India. Last year we did Bhoomi 2020 very successfully. This time we have had the vision to not just keep the languages of North India but also go South. We've gone East and West as well. Bhoomi is not just a project which expresses musically and it's not just about our culture but also about our tradition, history, our environment and also our faith. Sulaiman: There is absolutely no insecurity between composers. At some stage of our lives, all of us cooperate, collaborate , work together, produce music together, sing for each other and there's great camaraderie between us. Insecurity kicks in only when you feel unequal to someone and we have never had that vibe. As far as Bhoomi 2021 is concerned, as the name suggests, it is about the musical influences in terms of styles, melodies, and lyrics across our own “Bhoomi”. So, working with different musicians from the length and breadth of our country brings another layer of authenticity to the concept. That is why in our album we have included three beautiful composers namely Anurag Saikia, Ricky Kej , and Shor Police. Going forward we intend to do more. We want more artists to participate in Bhoomi so that way the movement becomes bigger and we get more diversity in the style of music. There's no question of insecurity as we are all happily creating music without any agenda or competition. WION: One of the songs you have produced (with Harshdeep Kaur in vocals) is about the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. Since you talk about human tragedies in your music, what are your thoughts on the plight of Afghan artists fighting for life and artistic freedom? Salim: I feel terrible about what Afghanistan as a country is going through. It is such a beautiful country with so much culture, tradition, artists and music but because of the current situation everyone is suffering. It's all gone back to hundreds of years behind. Art is one aspect but humanity has completely gone out of the window and that is something that is of a bigger concern. Sulaiman: What’s unfolding in Afghanistan is tragic.Years of incremental progress appear to have been eroded in the blink of an eye. For a country with such a rich heritage and culture, this comes as a major setback. But, they’ve always been a resilient populace and I hope that they continue to dig deep and strive towards living as normal a life as possible. As part of the global community, we must do what we can to support them. WION: You are to Bollywood what Russo brothers are to Hollywood—different genres, of course. But, have you ever felt sibling rivalry brewing between the two of you at any point in your career? Salim: Sulaiman and I studied music together, we are always listening to music together, we were in bands together so it's only more powerful to have two instead of one. We don't have any sibling rivalry but when we make music, we have disagreements and arguments but ultimately music wins and that's the key to make good music and continue your relationship with your sibling and partner. Sulaiman: Salim and I have been making music for the last 30 years. When you are brothers and partners especially when you’re doing something as creative as making music or performing together I don’t think rivalry even comes into the picture. We both have our strengths that we bring to the table. And we leave the insecurities and negative energies for other people. WION: A day will come when there will be fewer phone calls, lesser interview requests to attend. Does the inevitable withering away of fame leave you worried sick? What is fame to you, anyway? Salim: Fame was never a criterion for us when we started to pursue music. I think we have a lot to yet achieve what we wanted to in music. Fame, Awards, Accolades was never our goal. We always want to make a good song and not a hit song. A hit song will come and go but a good song will be heard forever. We don't make music for fame or glory but we make music for happiness. Also remember that Love is bigger than anything else and is unquantifiable. It’s what keeps us grounded and motivated to do more. We are also deeply grateful to our gurus, mentors, and parents who have given us the knowledge, values, and humility - that gives us the strength, passion, and purpose to spread happiness, love, and peace through our music. Sulaiman: You should get scared of the fame withering away only when you’re chasing it. We have never chased fame and in fact it came to us when we were busy enjoying our work. If you keep that in mind right at the onset, you will never feel any insecurity. I would rather have my music famous and popular because that will stay on forever. In today's times, the biggest blessing is the fact that we are safe and that God had been kind to us. WION: Chak De India has been a National Sports anthem for a very long time now. How do you handle the pressure of creating another sports anthem 'Haq Se India' that has a similar kind of expectations from people given the mood is pretty much the same? For this latest number, how do you plan on outdoing yourself? Salim: When creating music, we always strive to maintain balance between retaining musicality and bringing out powerful emotions at the same time. Haq Se India was a huge challenge because it was encompassing the World Cup which India won in 2007 which was a miraculous victory. Chak De was a huge celebration as the Indian team returned and the movie released in 2007. The film "Haq se India" captures the spirit of that victory 14 years later and now it's releasing just before the World Cup. It was a big high for us and a huge challenge so we wanted to go higher and capture that spirit that Chak De had.Chants of “Indiaaaa” in the backdrop, and the eventual hookline recreate a stadium-like vibe that only add to the adrenaline. Sulaiman: We wanted to bring back the joyous spirit once again. We hope "Haq Se India” will evoke strong feelings of patriotism and inspire supporters to get behind the current squad; in the run-up to the upcoming tournament. We have tried to create a motivational track that captures elements of team spirit, passion, hard work, celebration, and joy. Amitabh Bhattacharya’s passionate lyrics leave one with goosebumps as Raj Pandit’s high notes bring the track to life.

WION exclusive: Salim-Sulaiman- Art is one aspect, humanity has gone out the window in Afghanistan

Former vice president Amrullah&nbsp;Saleh speaking exclusively to WION's&nbsp;Palki Sharma&nbsp;said former president Ashraf Ghani leaving <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/terror-threat-at-kabul-airport-say-us-and-allies-amid-evacuation-408392">Afghanistan</a> was a "stain on our history".

"Ghani's escape shattered whatever positivity was left about his image," Saleh declared.

Saleh asserted that had Ghani stayed in Afghanistan and honoured his word it would have been much better both for him, "his legacy and the Afghan people". 
 
Watch | Former Vice President of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh speaks with WION

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/former-vice-president-of-afghanistan-amrullah-saleh-speaks-with-wion-408561/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Saleh added that few days before the collapse of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/briton-to-evacuate-200-dogs-and-cats-from-his-animal-shelter-in-kabul-408364">Kabul</a>, Ghani had claimed that, "I am a fan of King Amanullah" who had regained independence from the British, however, at the time of difficulty and uncertainty, Ghani left the country.

"At the right moment he did not show a sense of sacrifice and a sense of giving back to the country, I feel very sorry that," Saleh lamented.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-baby-girl-born-aboard-us-military-plane-named-reach-after-aircrafts-code-name-408427">Also Read: Afghan baby girl born aboard US military plane named 'Reach'</a>

The former Afgan vice president reasoned that even if Ghani was captured and imprisoned by the Taliban it would have been a "rallying point" for the Afghan people and it would have led to an outcry in the international community.

"I don't think his escape from Afghanistan has either helped him or those around him," he said," adding, "this will be a dark chapter in our history."

When asked about asylum offered by other countries to him, Abdullah Saleh said: "If a person of my stature and history tries to escape it would be disgraceful and a historic shame."

Saleh said for years the Afghan people were told to sacrifice one's life for a "noble cause and for humanity. "When the country is seeking our trust if we escape it would dishonouring the sacrifices of the Afghan people."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-role-in-afghan-crisis-is-clear-every-child-knows-this-female-afghan-mayor-408130">Also Read: Pakistan's role in Afghan crisis is clear, every child knows this, says Afghan mayor</a>

"I did not want to be part of that disgrace, humiliation and historic shame," Saleh said on a possible escape from Afghanistan as the Taliban took control of the country.

"I am with the Afghan people and I am on my soil, I share their pain and frustration," he said. Saleh declared&nbsp;he is prepared to share "every hardship" faced by his fellow citizens.

The former vice president informed that even though&nbsp;was offered evacuation and chartered flights out of the country by friendly nations,&nbsp;he refused and decided to stay in Afghanistan.

Former vice president Amrullah Saleh speaking exclusively to WION's Palki Sharma said former president Ashraf Ghani leaving Afghanistan was a "stain on our history".

Former vice president Amrullah Saleh speaking exclusively to WION's Palki Sharma said former president Ashraf Ghani leaving Afghanistan was a "stain on our history". "Ghani's escape shattered whatever positivity was left about his image," Saleh declared. Saleh asserted that had Ghani stayed in Afghanistan and honoured his word it would have been much better both for him, "his legacy and the Afghan people". Watch | Former Vice President of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh speaks with WION Saleh added that few days before the collapse of Kabul, Ghani had claimed that, "I am a fan of King Amanullah" who had regained independence from the British, however, at the time of difficulty and uncertainty, Ghani left the country. "At the right moment he did not show a sense of sacrifice and a sense of giving back to the country, I feel very sorry that," Saleh lamented. Also Read: Afghan baby girl born aboard US military plane named 'Reach' The former Afgan vice president reasoned that even if Ghani was captured and imprisoned by the Taliban it would have been a "rallying point" for the Afghan people and it would have led to an outcry in the international community. "I don't think his escape from Afghanistan has either helped him or those around him," he said," adding, "this will be a dark chapter in our history." When asked about asylum offered by other countries to him, Abdullah Saleh said: "If a person of my stature and history tries to escape it would be disgraceful and a historic shame." Saleh said for years the Afghan people were told to sacrifice one's life for a "noble cause and for humanity. "When the country is seeking our trust if we escape it would dishonouring the sacrifices of the Afghan people." Also Read: Pakistan's role in Afghan crisis is clear, every child knows this, says Afghan mayor "I did not want to be part of that disgrace, humiliation and historic shame," Saleh said on a possible escape from Afghanistan as the Taliban took control of the country. "I am with the Afghan people and I am on my soil, I share their pain and frustration," he said. Saleh declared he is prepared to share "every hardship" faced by his fellow citizens. The former vice president informed that even though was offered evacuation and chartered flights out of the country by friendly nations, he refused and decided to stay in Afghanistan.

Exclusive: Ghani leaving the country a stain on our history, says former Afghan vice-president Amrullah Saleh

In an explosive claim, former Iran president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said that the US is supporting Taliban in Afghanistan and designing new plots in the region with the insurgent group.

“It is definitely so,” he told WION Executive Editor Palki Sharma in an interview, when asked if Americans are supporting the Taliban. “In fact, Taliban are part of the American plot.”

“I believe that the Americans haven’t, in practice, gone out of the region. And in fact, they have new plots, which is being designed and they are supporting the Taliban.”

In the near future, he said, the Taliban will resort to the slogan of ‘Greater Khorasan’ and bring about war and conflicts to the entire region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-dialogues-former-iran-prez-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-speaks-to-wion-on-afghan-crisis-411575">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-dialogues-former-iran-prez-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-speaks-to-wion-on-afghan-crisis-411575/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
Part of &nbsp;the interview will air at 3:30 GMT on Tuesday. 
 
Greater Khorasan refers to the region that comprises present-day territories of northeastern Iran, parts of Afghanistan and southern parts of Central Asia.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

“If the US and others don’t support the Taliban, by providing weapons and logistics, financial and other promotion, then Taliban would not be able to endanger the security of Afghanistan,” Ahmedinejad said.

“If the Americans and others go away and keep out, problems would be resolved more quickly.”

The current security situation in the war-torn nation is “both to the detriment of Afghan nation and also the regional nations,” he said.

Anybody who is willing to help should do so to ensure that the will of the Afghan nation is implemented, the former Tehran mayor said.&nbsp;“This will occur when the real representatives of the Afghan nation make the decisions.”

“Agreements between groups do not bring about peace. What brings about peace, tranquility and security is the enforcement of the public will of the Afghan nation, and their neighbouring countries.”

He said outside powers should not meddle in the affairs of Afghanistan, but should help enforce the will of the Afghan people.

None of the neighbours of Afghanistan—Iran, Pakistan, India, China— or Persian Gulf countries, NATO and Russia- &nbsp;should meddle in the country’s affairs, he added.

Asked if talks with Taliban, and legitimising the insurgent group, was a good idea, he said: “People of Afghanistan should elect their representatives. And none of these groups are the representatives of people of Afghanistan.”

This is only possible in a free election. If any group takes weapons, attacks and occupies some parts, they cannot consider themselves the representatives of the nation and be&nbsp; entitled to rights, he said.

“If we accept this logic, then we will be accepting that the entire world would always be unstable , and whoever is more violent, would be dominant. Then rights and laws would be meaningless.”

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In an explosive claim, former Iran president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said that the US is supporting Taliban in Afghanistan and designing new plots in the region with the insurgent group.

In an explosive claim, former Iran president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said that the US is supporting Taliban in Afghanistan and designing new plots in the region with the insurgent group. “It is definitely so,” he told WION Executive Editor Palki Sharma in an interview, when asked if Americans are supporting the Taliban. “In fact, Taliban are part of the American plot.” “I believe that the Americans haven’t, in practice, gone out of the region. And in fact, they have new plots, which is being designed and they are supporting the Taliban.” In the near future, he said, the Taliban will resort to the slogan of ‘Greater Khorasan’ and bring about war and conflicts to the entire region. WATCH | Part of the interview will air at 3:30 GMT on Tuesday. Greater Khorasan refers to the region that comprises present-day territories of northeastern Iran, parts of Afghanistan and southern parts of Central Asia. “If the US and others don’t support the Taliban, by providing weapons and logistics, financial and other promotion, then Taliban would not be able to endanger the security of Afghanistan,” Ahmedinejad said. “If the Americans and others go away and keep out, problems would be resolved more quickly.” The current security situation in the war-torn nation is “both to the detriment of Afghan nation and also the regional nations,” he said. Anybody who is willing to help should do so to ensure that the will of the Afghan nation is implemented, the former Tehran mayor said. “This will occur when the real representatives of the Afghan nation make the decisions.” “Agreements between groups do not bring about peace. What brings about peace, tranquility and security is the enforcement of the public will of the Afghan nation, and their neighbouring countries.” He said outside powers should not meddle in the affairs of Afghanistan, but should help enforce the will of the Afghan people. None of the neighbours of Afghanistan—Iran, Pakistan, India, China— or Persian Gulf countries, NATO and Russia- should meddle in the country’s affairs, he added. Asked if talks with Taliban, and legitimising the insurgent group, was a good idea, he said: “People of Afghanistan should elect their representatives. And none of these groups are the representatives of people of Afghanistan.” This is only possible in a free election. If any group takes weapons, attacks and occupies some parts, they cannot consider themselves the representatives of the nation and be entitled to rights, he said. “If we accept this logic, then we will be accepting that the entire world would always be unstable , and whoever is more violent, would be dominant. Then rights and laws would be meaningless.”

Exclusive: US supporting Taliban, designing plots in region: Former Iran prez Ahmadinejad

“You know, I used to look out of the window and tell my mother that one day someone will send a plane that I can hop on and flee,” says the once rebellious Zahra*** about her survival tactics. She, in her 20s, has worked towards the betterment of Afghan women and children through several NGOs in the past, and had a steady job in finance before the Taliban asked working women to shut shop.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“But I want to go out, eat out with my friends. I don’t want to wear a&nbsp;burqa!” she screams, almost. In an exclusive interview with WION—this girl, a&nbsp;headstrong persona, hiding somewhere in the deep pockets of the troubled country—she tells us some women are supporting the Taliban and&nbsp;are party to&nbsp;a confused war, why Taliban’s definition of the female population angers her and what she would do if help doesn’t come sooner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Edited excerpts from this&nbsp;video-recorded conversation:&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: You have worked with NGOs of international repute, and also served as finance &amp; marketing executive in a private company. Now, you say, you have been forced into being a homebody. How are you coping with this drastic transition?&nbsp;

ZAHRA:&nbsp;This horrible, horrifying condition was unexpected. It's like everything went upside down. Jobs are closed for females and coping in such conditions is never easy. And I can say that we, who are currently living in Afghanistan, are the survivors. And everyone knows that it's really hard to cope mentally. It's like we are living&nbsp;in our own homeland as&nbsp;prisoners. After&nbsp;higher&nbsp;studies and all that hard work, we have reached a point where we can&nbsp;contribute towards our country. But the Taliban has pushed us back&nbsp;and changed everything; sitting home and doing household chores. That is always the perspective of a male-dominant, patriarchal society and Afghanistan is one now. And, we, the females, who have always faced challenges, are just homebodies.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-exclusive-life-under-taliban-living-in-the-land-of-zombies-416292">WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’</a>

WION: You mentioned that the Taliban looks down upon women who work and their choice of language to describe them is objectionable, to put it subtly. What is the word on the street about their opinion of career-oriented ladies?&nbsp;

ZAHRA:&nbsp;&nbsp;As I mentioned previously, Afghanistan was a male-dominated&nbsp;society. But,&nbsp;we do have male members who support female empowerment&nbsp;and help them chase their dreams in different career paths like photography, theatre, sports, among others. But Taliban’s opinion of women working in different sectors is unacceptable. They themselves had announced that doctors and teachers can go to work. And, despite that, they have banned teachers who used to teach in boys' schools. Taliban (has) point (ed) out that women are s**ts for working&nbsp;in (the) photography field, filmmaking and sports. Of course, they banned sports, too, because women wear clothes, and the body is visible. This is a stupid idea.&nbsp;&nbsp;

They say that women are doing unethical actions at&nbsp;their workplace. They cannot put&nbsp;labels on&nbsp;women as being sluts. They have no right to say that. And our people, who have enough knowledge&nbsp;and those who have enough understanding of women, always support us: both&nbsp;in&nbsp;and outside of Afghanistan. But people who are in&nbsp;Afghanistan, it's not easy for them to support the idea of women working in any&nbsp;field, because it may end up in&nbsp;death (for them). And even I don't want to lose that kind of men in my society (who support women), because that's (for) our next generation. And I don't want them to lose&nbsp;their lives.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-exclusive-life-under-taliban-women-run-studio-forced-to-shut-down-in-kabul-417039">WION exclusive- Life under Taliban: Women-run studio forced to shut down in Kabul</a>

WION: Despite the mayhem, the Taliban has found sympathizers within the country, and some are women. What’s the logic behind those who support them? How are they looking at this so-called victory, especially the female population?&nbsp;

ZAHRA: Women&nbsp;who support the Taliban, they went on the street and claimed victory, saying ‘this is the victory of Islam. This is the victory of Afghanistan’. Because they think or their thinking (is) that Afghanistan was overpowered&nbsp;by foreigners for 20 years (referring to the presence of Americans). And now, all of Afghanistan is banned in a wrong way, in a non-Muslim way, which is not right. And these women&nbsp;think&nbsp;they're (helping) the Taliban claim victory for them and help them live in a Muslim society. These are women who were not comfortable wearing colourful dresses and would wear black burqas instead. And, we (the liberal women of Afghanistan) didn't say, ‘Come on, wear colourful dresses because this is Afghanistan. Foreigners are ruling this country.’ That has never happened and now they are telling the media that Taliban's takeover&nbsp;is the victory of Islam. Okay, no one is against Islam in Afghanistan, we are all Muslims. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
And we all know that in Islam we don't wear tight clothes as they attract (male gaze). These women are thinking that the Taliban has 'allowed' them to wear black burqa from head-to-toe. I'm not comfortable wearing black burqa. I'm comfortable in wearing my own type of dress, my own choice of colour, not black. And these women, I don't know what to say to them--I don't have the right to insult them--because they're not aware of their own rights, and they're just throwing women’s freedom away over some&nbsp;colours. What kind of freedom is this? And they are so&nbsp;limited: even in their ideas. I can say that they are insane. They only know how to read the Quran or go to Madrasa. But Islam is beyond that. Once they get to know about their rights, I'm sure they will go against the idea of Taliban (rule).&nbsp;

WION: You have tried fleeing the country but couldn’t. Also, you think media professionals (female) find it easier to leave Afghanistan as opposed to those who come from other backgrounds. Why so?&nbsp;

ZAHRA:&nbsp;We all know that working as a TV reporter means you need to showcase what the truth is, without any fear or hesitation. And, for the past 20 years, our female reporters have done that. They try to show what the truth is on TV and have always been trying to bring about&nbsp;change. And their identity is so visible to everyone: their names, their last names and even their faces. And they're known by everyone in the country. So, in this regime of Taliban, it's not easy for them to hide under such&nbsp;conditions as anything could happen at any moment. So, that's why, they&nbsp;can flee to other countries sooner and be evacuated after say two days of petition. But, for other people like us, who come from different professional backgrounds, we are not allowed. It's not easy for us to be evacuated soon. This condition is horrible.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-wion-exclusive--afghan-actor-warina-hussain-i-dont-blame-women-who-have-taken-up-arms-in-afghanistan-409865">WION exclusive | Afghan actor Warina Hussain: I don't blame women who have taken up arms in Afghanistan</a>

WION:&nbsp;&nbsp;If help doesn’t come sooner—or at all—what’s your plan of action?&nbsp;

 
ZAHRA:&nbsp;I don't know what will happen (to my life). It's so uncertain. I don't know. I cannot go to work and have to stay only at home. It's not&nbsp;easy for me. But then I cannot go anywhere with my friends. I cannot go for walks. I cannot go to restaurants with my friends, male and female. Something&nbsp;I used to do just two months ago.&nbsp;And I don't know how to explain it. It's beyond horrible. And every&nbsp;woman in this country is uncertain as to what will happen next, and when. The government is focusing on Islam. Not in (its) politics and politicians. Even when a&nbsp;reporter asks&nbsp;them a question (about women),they change&nbsp;the topic to Islam. They're not answering it politically, which the people are dying (to know about) each day. Our economy is zero now. People are dying because&nbsp;of lack of food. There's so much uncertainty. I don't know. I really don't know what I will do if help doesn't come sooner.&nbsp;

***The name of the interviewee has been changed and other information withheld for security reasons.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

“You know, I used to look out of the window and tell my mother that one day someone will send a plane that I can hop on and flee,” says the once rebellious Zahra*** about her survival tactics.

“You know, I used to look out of the window and tell my mother that one day someone will send a plane that I can hop on and flee,” says the once rebellious Zahra*** about her survival tactics. She, in her 20s, has worked towards the betterment of Afghan women and children through several NGOs in the past, and had a steady job in finance before the Taliban asked working women to shut shop. “But I want to go out, eat out with my friends. I don’t want to wear a burqa!” she screams, almost. In an exclusive interview with WION—this girl, a headstrong persona, hiding somewhere in the deep pockets of the troubled country—she tells us some women are supporting the Taliban and are party to a confused war, why Taliban’s definition of the female population angers her and what she would do if help doesn’t come sooner. Edited excerpts from this video-recorded conversation: WION: You have worked with NGOs of international repute, and also served as finance & marketing executive in a private company. Now, you say, you have been forced into being a homebody. How are you coping with this drastic transition? ZAHRA: This horrible, horrifying condition was unexpected. It's like everything went upside down. Jobs are closed for females and coping in such conditions is never easy. And I can say that we, who are currently living in Afghanistan, are the survivors. And everyone knows that it's really hard to cope mentally. It's like we are living in our own homeland as prisoners. After higher studies and all that hard work, we have reached a point where we can contribute towards our country. But the Taliban has pushed us back and changed everything; sitting home and doing household chores. That is always the perspective of a male-dominant, patriarchal society and Afghanistan is one now. And, we, the females, who have always faced challenges, are just homebodies. Also read | WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’ WION: You mentioned that the Taliban looks down upon women who work and their choice of language to describe them is objectionable, to put it subtly. What is the word on the street about their opinion of career-oriented ladies? ZAHRA: As I mentioned previously, Afghanistan was a male-dominated society. But, we do have male members who support female empowerment and help them chase their dreams in different career paths like photography, theatre, sports, among others. But Taliban’s opinion of women working in different sectors is unacceptable. They themselves had announced that doctors and teachers can go to work. And, despite that, they have banned teachers who used to teach in boys' schools. Taliban (has) point (ed) out that women are s**ts for working in (the) photography field, filmmaking and sports. Of course, they banned sports, too, because women wear clothes, and the body is visible. This is a stupid idea. They say that women are doing unethical actions at their workplace. They cannot put labels on women as being sluts. They have no right to say that. And our people, who have enough knowledge and those who have enough understanding of women, always support us: both in and outside of Afghanistan. But people who are in Afghanistan, it's not easy for them to support the idea of women working in any field, because it may end up in death (for them). And even I don't want to lose that kind of men in my society (who support women), because that's (for) our next generation. And I don't want them to lose their lives. Also read | WION exclusive- Life under Taliban: Women-run studio forced to shut down in Kabul WION: Despite the mayhem, the Taliban has found sympathizers within the country, and some are women. What’s the logic behind those who support them? How are they looking at this so-called victory, especially the female population? ZAHRA: Women who support the Taliban, they went on the street and claimed victory, saying ‘this is the victory of Islam. This is the victory of Afghanistan’. Because they think or their thinking (is) that Afghanistan was overpowered by foreigners for 20 years (referring to the presence of Americans). And now, all of Afghanistan is banned in a wrong way, in a non-Muslim way, which is not right. And these women think they're (helping) the Taliban claim victory for them and help them live in a Muslim society. These are women who were not comfortable wearing colourful dresses and would wear black burqas instead. And, we (the liberal women of Afghanistan) didn't say, ‘Come on, wear colourful dresses because this is Afghanistan. Foreigners are ruling this country.’ That has never happened and now they are telling the media that Taliban's takeover is the victory of Islam. Okay, no one is against Islam in Afghanistan, we are all Muslims. And we all know that in Islam we don't wear tight clothes as they attract (male gaze). These women are thinking that the Taliban has 'allowed' them to wear black burqa from head-to-toe. I'm not comfortable wearing black burqa. I'm comfortable in wearing my own type of dress, my own choice of colour, not black. And these women, I don't know what to say to them--I don't have the right to insult them--because they're not aware of their own rights, and they're just throwing women’s freedom away over some colours. What kind of freedom is this? And they are so limited: even in their ideas. I can say that they are insane. They only know how to read the Quran or go to Madrasa. But Islam is beyond that. Once they get to know about their rights, I'm sure they will go against the idea of Taliban (rule). WION: You have tried fleeing the country but couldn’t. Also, you think media professionals (female) find it easier to leave Afghanistan as opposed to those who come from other backgrounds. Why so? ZAHRA: We all know that working as a TV reporter means you need to showcase what the truth is, without any fear or hesitation. And, for the past 20 years, our female reporters have done that. They try to show what the truth is on TV and have always been trying to bring about change. And their identity is so visible to everyone: their names, their last names and even their faces. And they're known by everyone in the country. So, in this regime of Taliban, it's not easy for them to hide under such conditions as anything could happen at any moment. So, that's why, they can flee to other countries sooner and be evacuated after say two days of petition. But, for other people like us, who come from different professional backgrounds, we are not allowed. It's not easy for us to be evacuated soon. This condition is horrible. Also read | WION exclusive | Afghan actor Warina Hussain: I don't blame women who have taken up arms in Afghanistan WION: If help doesn’t come sooner—or at all—what’s your plan of action? ZAHRA: I don't know what will happen (to my life). It's so uncertain. I don't know. I cannot go to work and have to stay only at home. It's not easy for me. But then I cannot go anywhere with my friends. I cannot go for walks. I cannot go to restaurants with my friends, male and female. Something I used to do just two months ago. And I don't know how to explain it. It's beyond horrible. And every woman in this country is uncertain as to what will happen next, and when. The government is focusing on Islam. Not in (its) politics and politicians. Even when a reporter asks them a question (about women),they change the topic to Islam. They're not answering it politically, which the people are dying (to know about) each day. Our economy is zero now. People are dying because of lack of food. There's so much uncertainty. I don't know. I really don't know what I will do if help doesn't come sooner. ***The name of the interviewee has been changed and other information withheld for security reasons.

WION exclusive: Life Under Taliban- 'They call women s**ts'

'Manike Mage Hithe' by Sinhalese singer Yohani Diloka De Silva is trending the world over for her song's unique tune and that soothing voice. The viral sensation has recently made her Bollywood debut with the title track of Sunny Kaushal-Radhika Madan’s ‘Shiddat’.&nbsp;

 
In an exclusive chat with WION, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-wion-exclusive-manike-mage-hithe-singer-yohani-in-bollywood-i-would-love-to-work-with-ar-rahman-415805">Yohani</a> tells us about her dreams and hopes for the future, why she doesn’t think her next song is going to be just as popular, and reveals her favourite Bollywood numbers till date. Read for more...&nbsp;

 
WION: I want to start by asking you about the song. Tell us a little bit about it. What does it mean? ‘Manike Mage Hithe’ has, of course, taken over social media.

 
YOHANI: So, originally, the song is sung by a boy to a girl. To summarise, Manike is something we call someone we love like ‘baby’, ‘darling’ or ‘babe’. Mage Hithe means in my heart. So, it means: baby in my heart. And this entire song is a love story.

 
WION: Now your expressions, as we see, have stolen the hearts of millions around the world. People, in fact, from different countries are swaying to the lyrics of the song without even understanding them, which, in essence, shows us the power of music to transcend boundaries. How are you handling this fame?

 
YOHANI: I am so humbled by it (love and appreciation) because this is the first time a song has crossed boundaries from Sri Lanka and to this extent. As a country and as a nation, we are really proud of it.&nbsp;

 
WION: Did you anticipate the amount of attention this song has received and what was your first reaction when you realised the song has gone viral? Secondly, do you plan on making more such songs to keep the trending aspect going?

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-shiddat-review-sunny-kaushal-radhika-madan-are-20-years-too-late-417274">Shiddat review: Sunny Kaushal, Radhika Madan are 20 years too late</a>

 
YOHANI: Well, we definitely did not plan for this (song) to go this viral, especially out of Sri Lanka. I mean, I have done so many songs in the past but nothing has ever gone out of Sri Lanka (in terms of reach) and to this extent. We did not plan it and for the next songs that I am doing, I am definitely not looking at the numbers. I just want to (make) music. I just want to produce music that I like and that I enjoy producing. I am not too sure it’s going to go viral like this. But, then, I am happy making songs that I like and that I enjoy making.&nbsp;

 
WION: Did you always have an inclination towards making music because you were also heavily involved in sports. We hear that you are a celebrated swimmer and a water polo player.&nbsp;

 
YOHANI: Yes (laughs!), well that’s the first time this question has come up. I am a swimmer and a water polo player and I have been playing for a very long time since I was in school. Along with sports, I did music simultaneously and was in a Western music band. Those two kind of blend together. Yes, music has always been a big part of me.&nbsp;

 
WION: The big question is: what lies next ahead of you, with your song hitting more than a 100 million views.

 
YOHANI: As I said, this wasn’t planned at all. This (song) going viral wasn’t planned. My main objective for this year and the year after was finishing my album. The process (of getting it done) is still on.

 
WION: You also recently recorded your first Bollywood song for ‘Shiddat’. Can you tell us a bit about that?

 
YOHANI: Yes, that was a really tough thing to do because of the language (Hindi). I have sung <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/manike-mage-hithe-singer-yohani-makes-bollywood-debut-as-she-sings-the-title-track-of-shiddat-416590">Hindi songs</a> like twice but those were like smaller sections. But, this was an actual song.&nbsp;

 
WION: I have to ask you this next question on popular demand. Do you like Bollywood music? If yes, what are your favourite songs and who are your favourite artists?

 
YOHANI: I like songs such as ‘Pehla Nasha’ (Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar/ 1992), ‘Hosanna’ both Tamil and Hindi versions (Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa in 2010 and Ekk Deewana Tha in 2012, respectively). As Sri Lankans, we are heavily influenced by Bollywood music and we listen to it all the time. We, as a nation, are a fan of Bollywood music. I enjoy different artists and genres of music.&nbsp;

Watch the full interview here:

 
&nbsp;

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'Manike Mage Hithe' by Sinhalese singer Yohani Diloka De Silva is trending the world over for her song's unique tune and that soothing voice. The viral sensation has recently made her Bollywood debut with the title track of Sunny Kaushal-Radhika Madan’s ‘Shiddat’.

'Manike Mage Hithe' by Sinhalese singer Yohani Diloka De Silva is trending the world over for her song's unique tune and that soothing voice. The viral sensation has recently made her Bollywood debut with the title track of Sunny Kaushal-Radhika Madan’s ‘Shiddat’. In an exclusive chat with WION, Yohani tells us about her dreams and hopes for the future, why she doesn’t think her next song is going to be just as popular, and reveals her favourite Bollywood numbers till date. Read for more... WION: I want to start by asking you about the song. Tell us a little bit about it. What does it mean? ‘Manike Mage Hithe’ has, of course, taken over social media. YOHANI: So, originally, the song is sung by a boy to a girl. To summarise, Manike is something we call someone we love like ‘baby’, ‘darling’ or ‘babe’. Mage Hithe means in my heart. So, it means: baby in my heart. And this entire song is a love story. WION: Now your expressions, as we see, have stolen the hearts of millions around the world. People, in fact, from different countries are swaying to the lyrics of the song without even understanding them, which, in essence, shows us the power of music to transcend boundaries. How are you handling this fame? YOHANI: I am so humbled by it (love and appreciation) because this is the first time a song has crossed boundaries from Sri Lanka and to this extent. As a country and as a nation, we are really proud of it. WION: Did you anticipate the amount of attention this song has received and what was your first reaction when you realised the song has gone viral? Secondly, do you plan on making more such songs to keep the trending aspect going? Also read: Shiddat review: Sunny Kaushal, Radhika Madan are 20 years too late YOHANI: Well, we definitely did not plan for this (song) to go this viral, especially out of Sri Lanka. I mean, I have done so many songs in the past but nothing has ever gone out of Sri Lanka (in terms of reach) and to this extent. We did not plan it and for the next songs that I am doing, I am definitely not looking at the numbers. I just want to (make) music. I just want to produce music that I like and that I enjoy producing. I am not too sure it’s going to go viral like this. But, then, I am happy making songs that I like and that I enjoy making. WION: Did you always have an inclination towards making music because you were also heavily involved in sports. We hear that you are a celebrated swimmer and a water polo player. YOHANI: Yes (laughs!), well that’s the first time this question has come up. I am a swimmer and a water polo player and I have been playing for a very long time since I was in school. Along with sports, I did music simultaneously and was in a Western music band. Those two kind of blend together. Yes, music has always been a big part of me. WION: The big question is: what lies next ahead of you, with your song hitting more than a 100 million views. YOHANI: As I said, this wasn’t planned at all. This (song) going viral wasn’t planned. My main objective for this year and the year after was finishing my album. The process (of getting it done) is still on. WION: You also recently recorded your first Bollywood song for ‘Shiddat’. Can you tell us a bit about that? YOHANI: Yes, that was a really tough thing to do because of the language (Hindi). I have sung Hindi songs like twice but those were like smaller sections. But, this was an actual song. WION: I have to ask you this next question on popular demand. Do you like Bollywood music? If yes, what are your favourite songs and who are your favourite artists? YOHANI: I like songs such as ‘Pehla Nasha’ (Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar/ 1992), ‘Hosanna’ both Tamil and Hindi versions (Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa in 2010 and Ekk Deewana Tha in 2012, respectively). As Sri Lankans, we are heavily influenced by Bollywood music and we listen to it all the time. We, as a nation, are a fan of Bollywood music. I enjoy different artists and genres of music. Watch the full interview here:

WION exclusive: Manike Mage Hithe singer Yohani- Sri Lanka, as a nation, loves Bollywood music

He couldn't hop on a plane and buy his freedom amid the chaos of Taliban takeover of Kabul in August.

So, he stayed.

The fear of losing&nbsp;life was so grave that he had walked for days straight, climbed rocky mountains and braved the unforgiving weather. Since Panjshir&nbsp;fell—last ray of hope, we reckon—he has been hiding from what he calls 'a prison-like' Taliban administration.

His family, scattered. His independence, long gone.

In an exclusive interview with WION from an undisclosed location in Afghanistan, a fiesty ***Aamir tells us the story of life under Taliban regime&nbsp;and the uncertainty that lurks.

 
WION: You tried but couldn't flee Afghanistan and now you and the rest of your family is hiding at different locations. And, as you say, Taliban has taken over your family home. What forbade you from leaving Afghanistan and why did it get especially bad for you and your family?

 
AAMIR: Yes, we had tried to flee from Kabul since our family, especially my father and my brother, were engaged directly with the native forces as military officers. During the evacuation, we tried to flee from Afghanistan. But, unfortunately, we couldn't do that. Since the Taliban took control of Kabul city, we have been in Panjshir Valley alongside the resistance forces of the Pakistani drones’ interference in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-in-panjshir-final-hours-before-the-fall-411190">Panjshir Valley</a>. The resistance forces defended initially, so we left (Panjshir), we came back to Kabul, and now we are hiding inside Kabul city. Each member of the family is living in separate areas. If one is to be captured by the Taliban, then the rest of us could get informed. And now, living under Taliban is very difficult. It is like a prison, whole country is like prisoners who are inside a jail. If you go on in the city, you may recognise you're living in the city of zombies. So, we are trying somehow to manage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-exclusive-life-under-taliban-living-in-the-land-of-zombies-416292">WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’</a>

WION: You are a self-proclaimed supporter of the resistance movement and have sought refuge in Kabul after leaving Panjshir for obvious reasons. How did you make that journey and why was it important for you to be part of the resistance?

 
AAMIR: I have been a part of the resistance forces and I have been supporting—and I am still supporting. After Panjshir fell, we made our journey (back) to Kabul city. We climbed up the mountains from Dara district, and then descended to Nejrab district and from there, it was one-and-a-half day walking distance to reach Kabul city. It was around 80 kms. Yes, it was quite difficult and we made the journey. We came to Kabul. Life is quite difficult here. We are all hiding, both men and women of the family, with our relatives and friends. Living in Kabul is horrible; it’s terrifying under this state (of) terrorism. It is very disgusting that we live in such a country and we lost a democracy like we (once) had, unfortunately.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-wion-exclusive--afghan-actor-warina-hussain-i-dont-blame-women-who-have-taken-up-arms-in-afghanistan-409865">WION exclusive | Afghan actor Warina Hussain: I don't blame women who have taken up arms in Afghanistan</a>

WION: The female members of your family--and even female friends--must be terrified. How are they getting by?

 
AAMIR: Yes, some of my female family members like my siblings, or my wife or my friends whom I had who were working with the private or governmental organisations, have been restricted to not go to their jobs or to the academic areas like universities or schools. So I think removing female employees or half of the society will lead Afghanistan again to 90s of the Taliban regime. So, mainly the Taliban is keen to establish male-dominance kind of governance in Afghanistan. And this is really sad for open-minded people like us. And, we are losing mostly like a lot of educated people. I think the female or the woman situation in Afghanistan is very bad. And they are in the process of being removed from the society. And their engagement in government sector or private sector--media or wherever--they have been working and now they are restricted not to go.

 
WION: You mentioned your family members have served different embassies over the years and now they are hiding away. How's life for them?

 
AAMIR: My family members work with embassies. All (of) my family members who have been in charge of security and protection of all embassies inside Kabul city for a very long period of time, we couldn't flee from Kabul (and) now we are in a very high risk of dismissal: all the family members. And we are being called by the Taliban, ‘this family (referring to his clan) or that group of people are servants of the ignorant inside of Aghanistan.’ So, this is making our lives extremely difficult and the family members are living under a very, very high mental pressure. Most of the family members, who directly worked with the forces and the embassies, are now in very deep depression and mental health problems. So living under Taliban, with such a background, is making life very difficult in Kabul.

 
WION: You mentioned studying in India for a good number of years. How was that experience for you? What is the main difference between both the countries you observed during your stay?

 
AAMIR: I have done my bachelor's and master's both in India. So the thing I observed in India is that it is a highly diverse country with many religions, many ethnicities and many languages. So they were living side by side with each other. And they're trying to make their nation great. And&nbsp;if I compare, then you will see that&nbsp;Afghanistan is also a highly diverse country. People who are Muslims, who are Hindus, and Jewish are living inside Afghanistan. But, the problem in Afghanistan is, a fundamentalist part or a group of Muslims are coming and taking control of Afghanistan with violence. And...inside Afghanistan, there is an ethnic war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-watch--wion-exclusive-afghan-pop-star-aryana-sayeed-im-grateful-to-be-alive-i-was-talibans-target-408549">Watch | WION exclusive: Afghan pop star Aryana Sayeed: I'm grateful to be alive, I was Taliban's target</a>

 
WION: Also, have you received any support or words of encouragement from your Indian friends?

 
AAMIR: Yes, I'm in touch. And my Indian friends are consistently calling me and texting me. And they're asking about how the situation is going on here. They're asking about my life, and about what I'm doing here. And especially my classmates, my teachers, my college friends, and even the friends I used to meet at coffee shops in India. And I'm really thankful to the people of India, especially my friends who have been in touch with me and who have been calling me and texting all the time. From the time Taliban took control till now, every day they are in touch with me, they're asking about me, and they're just requesting me to take care of myself and to be in touch with them. Thank you so much, India.

 
***The name of the interviewee has been changed and other information withheld for security reasons.&nbsp;

Check out the full interaction here:

&nbsp;

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/One-DVq-yCY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

He couldn't hop on a plane and buy his freedom amid the chaos of Taliban takeover of Kabul in August. So, he stayed. The fear of losing life was so grave that he had walked for days straight, climbed rocky mountains and braved the unforgiving weather.

He couldn't hop on a plane and buy his freedom amid the chaos of Taliban takeover of Kabul in August. So, he stayed. The fear of losing life was so grave that he had walked for days straight, climbed rocky mountains and braved the unforgiving weather. Since Panjshir fell—last ray of hope, we reckon—he has been hiding from what he calls 'a prison-like' Taliban administration. His family, scattered. His independence, long gone. In an exclusive interview with WION from an undisclosed location in Afghanistan, a fiesty ***Aamir tells us the story of life under Taliban regime and the uncertainty that lurks. WION: You tried but couldn't flee Afghanistan and now you and the rest of your family is hiding at different locations. And, as you say, Taliban has taken over your family home. What forbade you from leaving Afghanistan and why did it get especially bad for you and your family? AAMIR: Yes, we had tried to flee from Kabul since our family, especially my father and my brother, were engaged directly with the native forces as military officers. During the evacuation, we tried to flee from Afghanistan. But, unfortunately, we couldn't do that. Since the Taliban took control of Kabul city, we have been in Panjshir Valley alongside the resistance forces of the Pakistani drones’ interference in Panjshir Valley. The resistance forces defended initially, so we left (Panjshir), we came back to Kabul, and now we are hiding inside Kabul city. Each member of the family is living in separate areas. If one is to be captured by the Taliban, then the rest of us could get informed. And now, living under Taliban is very difficult. It is like a prison, whole country is like prisoners who are inside a jail. If you go on in the city, you may recognise you're living in the city of zombies. So, we are trying somehow to manage. Also read: WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’ WION: You are a self-proclaimed supporter of the resistance movement and have sought refuge in Kabul after leaving Panjshir for obvious reasons. How did you make that journey and why was it important for you to be part of the resistance? AAMIR: I have been a part of the resistance forces and I have been supporting—and I am still supporting. After Panjshir fell, we made our journey (back) to Kabul city. We climbed up the mountains from Dara district, and then descended to Nejrab district and from there, it was one-and-a-half day walking distance to reach Kabul city. It was around 80 kms. Yes, it was quite difficult and we made the journey. We came to Kabul. Life is quite difficult here. We are all hiding, both men and women of the family, with our relatives and friends. Living in Kabul is horrible; it’s terrifying under this state (of) terrorism. It is very disgusting that we live in such a country and we lost a democracy like we (once) had, unfortunately. WION exclusive | Afghan actor Warina Hussain: I don't blame women who have taken up arms in Afghanistan WION: The female members of your family--and even female friends--must be terrified. How are they getting by? AAMIR: Yes, some of my female family members like my siblings, or my wife or my friends whom I had who were working with the private or governmental organisations, have been restricted to not go to their jobs or to the academic areas like universities or schools. So I think removing female employees or half of the society will lead Afghanistan again to 90s of the Taliban regime. So, mainly the Taliban is keen to establish male-dominance kind of governance in Afghanistan. And this is really sad for open-minded people like us. And, we are losing mostly like a lot of educated people. I think the female or the woman situation in Afghanistan is very bad. And they are in the process of being removed from the society. And their engagement in government sector or private sector--media or wherever--they have been working and now they are restricted not to go. WION: You mentioned your family members have served different embassies over the years and now they are hiding away. How's life for them? AAMIR: My family members work with embassies. All (of) my family members who have been in charge of security and protection of all embassies inside Kabul city for a very long period of time, we couldn't flee from Kabul (and) now we are in a very high risk of dismissal: all the family members. And we are being called by the Taliban, ‘this family (referring to his clan) or that group of people are servants of the ignorant inside of Aghanistan.’ So, this is making our lives extremely difficult and the family members are living under a very, very high mental pressure. Most of the family members, who directly worked with the forces and the embassies, are now in very deep depression and mental health problems. So living under Taliban, with such a background, is making life very difficult in Kabul. WION: You mentioned studying in India for a good number of years. How was that experience for you? What is the main difference between both the countries you observed during your stay? AAMIR: I have done my bachelor's and master's both in India. So the thing I observed in India is that it is a highly diverse country with many religions, many ethnicities and many languages. So they were living side by side with each other. And they're trying to make their nation great. And if I compare, then you will see that Afghanistan is also a highly diverse country. People who are Muslims, who are Hindus, and Jewish are living inside Afghanistan. But, the problem in Afghanistan is, a fundamentalist part or a group of Muslims are coming and taking control of Afghanistan with violence. And...inside Afghanistan, there is an ethnic war. Watch | WION exclusive: Afghan pop star Aryana Sayeed: I'm grateful to be alive, I was Taliban's target WION: Also, have you received any support or words of encouragement from your Indian friends? AAMIR: Yes, I'm in touch. And my Indian friends are consistently calling me and texting me. And they're asking about how the situation is going on here. They're asking about my life, and about what I'm doing here. And especially my classmates, my teachers, my college friends, and even the friends I used to meet at coffee shops in India. And I'm really thankful to the people of India, especially my friends who have been in touch with me and who have been calling me and texting all the time. From the time Taliban took control till now, every day they are in touch with me, they're asking about me, and they're just requesting me to take care of myself and to be in touch with them. Thank you so much, India. ***The name of the interviewee has been changed and other information withheld for security reasons. Check out the full interaction here:

WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’

Taliban is taking women off air in Afghanistan as Kabul's women-run Baano Radio and TV shuts down in Kabul.&nbsp;

 
The Banno TV in Afghanistan, which was a women-led initiative, is one of the many networks that have been forced to shut down following the Taliban takeover. Zahra Nabi, the owner of Banno TV, speaks exclusively to WION before the shutter goes down on her media network. She tells us that following the takeover, it had become increasingly difficult for her to operate.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;“The first time I attended the press conference (of Taliban, by spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, after the takeover), I asked (them), ‘can you tell us about the future of women?’ but I wasn’t given any clear answer. He said, ‘You have to wait.’ The next time, I asked the same question: ‘How about the women, you know?’ He again said, ‘You have to wait.’ The third time I wanted to ask him the same question but he didn’t allow me to ask but I asked him anyway. Still, he said, ‘you have to wait’,” said Nabi.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-exclusive-life-under-taliban-living-in-the-land-of-zombies-416292">WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’</a>

The media professional, who used butterflies as metaphor for freedom and hope in her studio, said her some of her 550, all-women crew members are planning on fleeing the country.&nbsp;

 
“We were a small TV station but had about 550 crew members and all of them were women. It was led by women, for women,” she tells us, proudly. “The first thing is that women are not allowed to work even under the Ministry of Women (Affairs). Women are not allowed to work as teachers and little girls are not allowed to go to schools. So, of course, as for media, women are not allowed to work in the media field. Our workers now have no jobs and no future. Last time, they waited for five years (to get back to work) and this time, they don’t want to wait and decided to leave the country.” reveals Nabi.&nbsp;

 
Contrary to what the Taliban had initially claimed, women are now being forced to give up on their career.

 
Right before shutting her studio down, Nabi takes WION on a tour, sharing, “This is the reception and there you have a artwork of a lady blowing butterflies out of her mouth. It symbolizes the future (of women in Afghanistan) and the hope (that) we have. I have to take it off but I will keep it here till the last day and take it off right before leaving. Here’s our main studio and it was here that we had placed the chroma key and around here we had our political show and in that corner we had family shows and ladies show.”&nbsp;

 
Women from different sections of society have complained and confirmed that they have been barred from working. Zahra Nabi’s studio going off air seems to be a testament to the plight of women in war-torn Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Watch WION's interaction with Zahra Nabi here:

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IE0Q7gWfS-8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Taliban is taking women off air in Afghanistan as Kabul's women-run Baano Radio and TV shuts down in Kabul. The Banno TV in Afghanistan, which was a women-led initiative, is one of the many networks that have been forced to shut down following the Taliban takeover.

Taliban is taking women off air in Afghanistan as Kabul's women-run Baano Radio and TV shuts down in Kabul. The Banno TV in Afghanistan, which was a women-led initiative, is one of the many networks that have been forced to shut down following the Taliban takeover. Zahra Nabi, the owner of Banno TV, speaks exclusively to WION before the shutter goes down on her media network. She tells us that following the takeover, it had become increasingly difficult for her to operate. “The first time I attended the press conference (of Taliban, by spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, after the takeover), I asked (them), ‘can you tell us about the future of women?’ but I wasn’t given any clear answer. He said, ‘You have to wait.’ The next time, I asked the same question: ‘How about the women, you know?’ He again said, ‘You have to wait.’ The third time I wanted to ask him the same question but he didn’t allow me to ask but I asked him anyway. Still, he said, ‘you have to wait’,” said Nabi. Also read: WION exclusive: Life under Taliban- ‘Living in the land of zombies’ The media professional, who used butterflies as metaphor for freedom and hope in her studio, said her some of her 550, all-women crew members are planning on fleeing the country. “We were a small TV station but had about 550 crew members and all of them were women. It was led by women, for women,” she tells us, proudly. “The first thing is that women are not allowed to work even under the Ministry of Women (Affairs). Women are not allowed to work as teachers and little girls are not allowed to go to schools. So, of course, as for media, women are not allowed to work in the media field. Our workers now have no jobs and no future. Last time, they waited for five years (to get back to work) and this time, they don’t want to wait and decided to leave the country.” reveals Nabi. Contrary to what the Taliban had initially claimed, women are now being forced to give up on their career. Right before shutting her studio down, Nabi takes WION on a tour, sharing, “This is the reception and there you have a artwork of a lady blowing butterflies out of her mouth. It symbolizes the future (of women in Afghanistan) and the hope (that) we have. I have to take it off but I will keep it here till the last day and take it off right before leaving. Here’s our main studio and it was here that we had placed the chroma key and around here we had our political show and in that corner we had family shows and ladies show.” Women from different sections of society have complained and confirmed that they have been barred from working. Zahra Nabi’s studio going off air seems to be a testament to the plight of women in war-torn Afghanistan. Watch WION's interaction with Zahra Nabi here:

WION exclusive- Life under Taliban: Women-run studio forced to shut down in Kabul

Afghanistan's Bagram military base built by the Americans has been left abandoned. The notorious detention centre is locally referred to as Afghanistan's Guantanamo. Those who were held there feared they would never leave. And many who did leave have never been the same since. WION's Anas Mallick travelled to this abandoned airbase to give us a sense of what is left behind.

Exclusive: Notorious Bagram prison that once held thousands now empty

WION's Anas Mallick speaks to the man behind Haqqani Network, Anas Haqqani on the issues such as the US exit from Afghanistan, India's role in the country as well as the future of visa holders in the Islamic Emirates.

WION Exclusive: Anas Haqqani says those with visa will be allowed to leave

Since the Taliban's takeover of Kabul, the Haqqani network has been making headlines. WION's Anas Mallick speaks to the man behind this dreaded group, Anas Haqqani on the issues such as the US exit from Afghanistan, India's role in the country as well as the future of visa holders in the Islamic Emirates.

WION Exclusive: Anas Haqqani speaks on US exit from Afghanistan

In his first-ever interview since his massive victory for the post of President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly or UNGA, Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has listed dealing with the COVID crisis, UN reforms among his 5 key priorities. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from New York, Abdulla Shahid speaking on the COVID crisis said, "We need to make sure we provide vaccines to all". Shahid received 143 votes at the general assembly during Monday's votes, far higher than the 96 votes that are required with his one-year tenure all set to begin from September of this year.

WION Exclusive: First interview of President-elect of 76th session of UNGA Abdulla Shahid

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EXCLUSIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EXCLUSIVE</a> | "I blame Pakistan for this disaster because that's where the Taliban gets instructions from", says Afghan pop star <a href="https://twitter.com/AryanaSayeed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AryanaSayeed</a> as she recounts her escape from Kabul.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaveAfghanWomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaveAfghanWomen</a> <a href="https://t.co/XJLuLwObGg">pic.twitter.com/XJLuLwObGg</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1430822020837613570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Under current circumstances, living in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-baby-girl-born-aboard-us-military-plane-named-reach-after-aircrafts-code-name-408427">Afghanistan </a>would have been dangerously difficult. So, Afghan pop star Aryana Sayeed and her fiancée Hasib Sayed fled the country that's reeling under the atrocious ways of the Taliban regime.

 
In an exclusive interview with WION--now living safely in Amsterdam for the last seven days--<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/i-felt-i-would-die-pop-star-aryana-sayeed-who-fled-afghanistan-recounts-her-escape-from-taliban-408195">Aryana spoke about the most horrifying journey of her life</a>, her anger towards the world for turning their backs on Afghanistan, and claims that for Taliban, women are no different than animals.&nbsp;

 
Excerpts from the video conversation:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-samantha-akkineni-thought-the-family-man-2-would-flop-calls-it-risky-408513">Also read: 'Samantha Akkineni thought 'The Family Man 2' would flop, calls it 'risky'</a>

WION: When you look at those very desperate scenes coming out of the airport at Kabul and you were one of those lucky few ones who managed to get out of Kabul in time. What exactly was going through your mind and how were you feeling, knowing that you were just one of those lucky ones who managed to escape, get out of the country?

 
ARYANA SAYEED: Well, I am obviously very grateful. I am grateful that I made it out alive of Afghanistan along with my fiancée. But, to be honest with you, I am really very worried and concerned about my people back there who are still there and have nowhere to go and they are living a life of misery and fear right now. It's just heartbreaking and even though I have been out of Afghanistan for the past seven days now. But my mind and heart is still there and I do not feel normal at all.&nbsp;

 
WION: Can you narrate to us the ordeal that you had to go through to get out of Afghanistan?&nbsp;

 
ARYANA SAYEED: Well, my fiancée&nbsp;and i were first booked initially on a commercial flight to take off from Afghanistan on 15th of August. But by the 15th of August, we went to the airport at around 2 or 3 in the afternoon and our flight was supposed to be at 8 pm. So we went to the airport and it was just packed with people. There were thousands of people and it was really difficult to--first of all--get in.&nbsp;

<blockquote>
 
It would have taken a few hours, and so we get in and waiting to be checked in and at around 5 or 6 pm, we heard gun shots. And we (got to know) that the Taliban was just outside the airport and they were going to come in any minute now. As a result of that, everybody got scared and people started running around--the airport staff and the security ran away and left the people just like that.&nbsp;
</blockquote>

 
The planes were open to public and everybody was just rushing in inside the planes with small children with bags on their shoulders and things like that. So, unfortunately, by the time I got on the plane I see that there's no space at all to sit there and there is no space to stand. It was packed with a thousand people. Also, it needs to be mentioned that the pilots ran away, they were scared as well. They couldn't fly the planes with thousands of people hanging on (to) the plane. There were also individuals who were armed with guns on them. So the plane couldn't take off that day. We had to come off the plane and then come back to the terminal. Inside the terminal we (were) confused and thinking 'what should we do, what should we do?' Because outside there's Taliban.

<blockquote>
 
&nbsp;Also, we had heard the news they they were going to come inside, walk in. So we had to take a risk and get out of the airport somehow. With the help of a few cousins of my fiancée, who came in like angels, took us out of the airport. We had to walk through gunshots and bullets. They were trying to shoot in the air because they were trying to scare people off so that they do not rush inside the airport. So we got away at 10 or 11 in the night and then the next day, we attempted for the airport again which was very risky, especially for me because I am a well-known face in Afghanistan as you know and I have been a women's rights activists. I have been a target (of the Taliban) in the past.&nbsp;
</blockquote>

 
So it was extra challenging for me to make that journey from my house to the airport. But (then) again, we had no choice but to take that risk. So we took two cars the next night and went to the airport, we passed a few Taliban checkpoints. But, luckily, they did not check us. One of them just looked through the window. We had some children with us because we wanted to blend in and look like a normal family. So, they didn't ask anything and let us go. So we get to the airport again--and this is the other side of the airport--where the American military base is and even this side is full of people and it would take you perhaps more than an hour or two to get to the gate where the base is. This is how packed the place was. The children were crying, babies were screaming.

<blockquote>
There was just no Oxygen, no air to breathe. It was an absolute disaster. It was really terrifying for me. I went through one of the most terrifying journeys&nbsp;of my life which I will never forget. It will stay with me for the rest of my life.&nbsp;
</blockquote>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-meet-kirsten-stewart-as-princess-diana-spencer-first-look-out-408511">Also read: 'Meet Kirsten Stewart as Princess Diana: 'Spencer' first look out'</a>

 
WION: Also, Aryana, as an Afghan national who has been living through this crisis and has got her family living back in Afghanistan, who do you hold accountable for the mess that Afghanistan finds itself in now?

 
ARYANA SAYEED: Well, seriously, I don't know who to blame first. But, the first country that I would blame personally is Pakistan because that's exactly where the Taliban's trained, that's where their bases are, that's where they get their funding&nbsp;from and their instructions from. And, obviously, Pakistan is being funded by other countries. So its really like a crazy situation, its like a dirty game, dirty political game that is being played inside of Afghanistan. Unfortunately, that's never-ending. The lives of so many people--innocent people--is being sacrificed as a result of a very dirty game that's being played. I blame the entire world now for leaving Afghanistan alone in the hands of Taliban. I cannot actually believe that they would reach a deal with a bunch of people who treat women like animals in Afghanistan, who don't even like women. They don't like humanity, they don't know what humanity means or what it should be. It's really heartbreaking and disappointing for all those innocent people who are being played and have nowhere to go. And they have to suffer, and suffer and suffer.&nbsp;

#EXCLUSIVE | "I blame Pakistan for this disaster because that's where the Taliban gets instructions from", says Afghan pop star @AryanaSayeed as she recounts her escape from Kabul.

#EXCLUSIVE | "I blame Pakistan for this disaster because that's where the Taliban gets instructions from", says Afghan pop star @AryanaSayeed as she recounts her escape from Kabul.#SaveAfghanWomen pic.twitter.com/XJLuLwObGg — WION (@WIONews) August 26, 2021 × Under current circumstances, living in Afghanistan would have been dangerously difficult. So, Afghan pop star Aryana Sayeed and her fiancée Hasib Sayed fled the country that's reeling under the atrocious ways of the Taliban regime. In an exclusive interview with WION--now living safely in Amsterdam for the last seven days--Aryana spoke about the most horrifying journey of her life, her anger towards the world for turning their backs on Afghanistan, and claims that for Taliban, women are no different than animals. Excerpts from the video conversation: Also read: 'Samantha Akkineni thought 'The Family Man 2' would flop, calls it 'risky' WION: When you look at those very desperate scenes coming out of the airport at Kabul and you were one of those lucky few ones who managed to get out of Kabul in time. What exactly was going through your mind and how were you feeling, knowing that you were just one of those lucky ones who managed to escape, get out of the country? ARYANA SAYEED: Well, I am obviously very grateful. I am grateful that I made it out alive of Afghanistan along with my fiancée. But, to be honest with you, I am really very worried and concerned about my people back there who are still there and have nowhere to go and they are living a life of misery and fear right now. It's just heartbreaking and even though I have been out of Afghanistan for the past seven days now. But my mind and heart is still there and I do not feel normal at all. WION: Can you narrate to us the ordeal that you had to go through to get out of Afghanistan? ARYANA SAYEED: Well, my fiancée and i were first booked initially on a commercial flight to take off from Afghanistan on 15th of August. But by the 15th of August, we went to the airport at around 2 or 3 in the afternoon and our flight was supposed to be at 8 pm. So we went to the airport and it was just packed with people. There were thousands of people and it was really difficult to--first of all--get in. It would have taken a few hours, and so we get in and waiting to be checked in and at around 5 or 6 pm, we heard gun shots. And we (got to know) that the Taliban was just outside the airport and they were going to come in any minute now. As a result of that, everybody got scared and people started running around--the airport staff and the security ran away and left the people just like that. The planes were open to public and everybody was just rushing in inside the planes with small children with bags on their shoulders and things like that. So, unfortunately, by the time I got on the plane I see that there's no space at all to sit there and there is no space to stand. It was packed with a thousand people. Also, it needs to be mentioned that the pilots ran away, they were scared as well. They couldn't fly the planes with thousands of people hanging on (to) the plane. There were also individuals who were armed with guns on them. So the plane couldn't take off that day. We had to come off the plane and then come back to the terminal. Inside the terminal we (were) confused and thinking 'what should we do, what should we do?' Because outside there's Taliban. Also, we had heard the news they they were going to come inside, walk in. So we had to take a risk and get out of the airport somehow. With the help of a few cousins of my fiancée, who came in like angels, took us out of the airport. We had to walk through gunshots and bullets. They were trying to shoot in the air because they were trying to scare people off so that they do not rush inside the airport. So we got away at 10 or 11 in the night and then the next day, we attempted for the airport again which was very risky, especially for me because I am a well-known face in Afghanistan as you know and I have been a women's rights activists. I have been a target (of the Taliban) in the past. So it was extra challenging for me to make that journey from my house to the airport. But (then) again, we had no choice but to take that risk. So we took two cars the next night and went to the airport, we passed a few Taliban checkpoints. But, luckily, they did not check us. One of them just looked through the window. We had some children with us because we wanted to blend in and look like a normal family. So, they didn't ask anything and let us go. So we get to the airport again--and this is the other side of the airport--where the American military base is and even this side is full of people and it would take you perhaps more than an hour or two to get to the gate where the base is. This is how packed the place was. The children were crying, babies were screaming. There was just no Oxygen, no air to breathe. It was an absolute disaster. It was really terrifying for me. I went through one of the most terrifying journeys of my life which I will never forget. It will stay with me for the rest of my life. Also read: 'Meet Kirsten Stewart as Princess Diana: 'Spencer' first look out' WION: Also, Aryana, as an Afghan national who has been living through this crisis and has got her family living back in Afghanistan, who do you hold accountable for the mess that Afghanistan finds itself in now? ARYANA SAYEED: Well, seriously, I don't know who to blame first. But, the first country that I would blame personally is Pakistan because that's exactly where the Taliban's trained, that's where their bases are, that's where they get their funding from and their instructions from. And, obviously, Pakistan is being funded by other countries. So its really like a crazy situation, its like a dirty game, dirty political game that is being played inside of Afghanistan. Unfortunately, that's never-ending. The lives of so many people--innocent people--is being sacrificed as a result of a very dirty game that's being played. I blame the entire world now for leaving Afghanistan alone in the hands of Taliban. I cannot actually believe that they would reach a deal with a bunch of people who treat women like animals in Afghanistan, who don't even like women. They don't like humanity, they don't know what humanity means or what it should be. It's really heartbreaking and disappointing for all those innocent people who are being played and have nowhere to go. And they have to suffer, and suffer and suffer.

Watch | WION exclusive: Afghan pop star Aryana Sayeed: I'm grateful to be alive, I was Taliban's target

In an exclusive interview with WION, BAFTA Award-winning actor Dev Patel talks to Pallabi Dey Purkayastha about internalizing the characteristic traits of Sir Gawain for his upcoming movie 'The Green Knight'. Patel delves into director David Lowery's creative process behind perfecting this historical figure and why he sees a little bit of him in the character he plays in this period drama.

Exclusive! Dev Patel talks about 'The Green Knight' and how it reflects his own journey

Ahmad Wali Massoud, the brother of the legendary anti-Taliban warlord&nbsp;Ahmad Shah Massoud, said on Wednesday that resistance would not die in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Speaking exclusively with WION, Massoud described the situation in Afghanistan as "chaotic".

"There is no government...People are panicking, they are running for their lives. Everyone wants to come out of Kabul and different cities," he said.

With surprising speed, Taliban took control of&nbsp;Afghanistan on August 15, following&nbsp;pullout of US troops.&nbsp;

However, Massoud asserted that resistance to Taliban rule had already started, with Panjshir Valley being at the core of the resistance.

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Panjshir Valley lies north of Kabul and is famed for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-panjshir-valley-a-graveyard-for-invaders-408018">being extremely hard to conquer</a>. Taliban forces have surrounded it but they have not been able to enter and are calling for negotiations.

Massoud warned that if a political solution is not found, the resistance will not remain limited to Panjshir Valley and will spread to entire country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-panjshir-valley-a-graveyard-for-invaders-408018">Also Read |&nbsp;&nbsp;Panjshir Valley: A graveyard for invaders</a>

He said that the younger generation, women and civil society were already part of the resistance.

He was dismissive of Taliban's recent statements about their new rule being different than the last one.

"At the moment they have not shown if they are different than the old Taliban," he said.

Taliban's previous rule was marked by their hardcore religious views and opposition to women's rights.

Ahmad Wali Massoud, the brother of the legendary anti-Taliban warlord Ahmad Shah Massoud, said on Wednesday that resistance would not die in Afghanistan. Speaking exclusively with WION, Massoud described the situation in Afghanistan as "chaotic".

Ahmad Wali Massoud, the brother of the legendary anti-Taliban warlord Ahmad Shah Massoud, said on Wednesday that resistance would not die in Afghanistan. Speaking exclusively with WION, Massoud described the situation in Afghanistan as "chaotic". "There is no government...People are panicking, they are running for their lives. Everyone wants to come out of Kabul and different cities," he said. With surprising speed, Taliban took control of Afghanistan on August 15, following pullout of US troops. However, Massoud asserted that resistance to Taliban rule had already started, with Panjshir Valley being at the core of the resistance. × Panjshir Valley lies north of Kabul and is famed for being extremely hard to conquer. Taliban forces have surrounded it but they have not been able to enter and are calling for negotiations. Massoud warned that if a political solution is not found, the resistance will not remain limited to Panjshir Valley and will spread to entire country. Also Read | Panjshir Valley: A graveyard for invaders He said that the younger generation, women and civil society were already part of the resistance. He was dismissive of Taliban's recent statements about their new rule being different than the last one. "At the moment they have not shown if they are different than the old Taliban," he said. Taliban's previous rule was marked by their hardcore religious views and opposition to women's rights.

Exclusive: Resistance will not die in Afghanistan, says late anti-Taliban leader's brother

Former Afghan envoy to the UK and founder of the Massoud foundation Ahmad Wali Massoud speaks exclusively to WION divulging the details about the current situation in Afghanistan.

WION Exclusive: 'Resistance movement will never die in Afghanistan', says Ahmad Wali Massoud

Afghanistan's first female Sikh MP Anarkali Kaur Honaryar who reached Delhi on Sunday expressed concerns over the developing situation in her country asked the international community to support and speak up. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi, she said, "The world is silent, why? are people of Afghanistan not human, aren't they supposed to be safe. Every 15 years or so, or 20 years, we become a refugee, why Afghans built their homes, only to be destroyed".

'Why is world silent?', asks Afghan's First Female Sikh MP Anarkali Kaur Honaryar

Afghanistan's envoy to Tajikistan Lieutenant General Muhammad Zahir Aghbar has said that Ashraf Ghani never came to Tajikistan, and raised the question of why when he was leaving the country he never informed his vice president, defence or foreign minister. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Aghbar said, "He took with him people who were involved and loyal to him and in his corruption, and eventually they landed themselves in Abu Dabhi. After 3 days wait he announced he is in Abu Dabhi."

"Ghani never came here", Afghan envoy to Tajikistan Zahir Aghbar; lauds Ahmad Massoud

In an exclusive conversation with WION, Afghanistan's former President Ashraf Ghani's brother Hashmat Ghani has refused the reports about him pledging allegiance to the Taliban.

WION Exclusive: 'I accept Taliban's rule, but not joining them', says Hashmat Ghani

Khalid Noor, the youngest member of the Afghanistan Peace Negotiating Team and son of Atta Muhammad Noor has said that the leader in the Mazar E Sharif will not "abandon the people". Atta Muhammad Noor, a prominent Afghan leader who holds sway in northern Afghanistan especially Balkh province has now himself taking the charge even as the Taliban making territorial gains. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Khalid Noor speaking from Mazar E Sharif said," I will be taking part in defending the city. I will be taking part in defending my people and their right. We will not abandon our people." He has graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in England and then from George Mason University in the US, majoring in conflict analysis and resolution. Khalid is seen as Afghanistan's next generation of leaders and in a way carrying his father's legacy.

Exclusive: Will not abandon our people, says Afghan's Next General Leader Khalid Noor

The people of Afghanistan have been historically fighting for the last 34 years, says Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, Ex-PM Afghanistan.

Afghanistan: Former afghan PM Gulbuddin Hekmatyar Speaks to WION

We have heard of billionaires heading to space. But UAE's Nora Al-Matrooshi is shattering the glass ceiling in space! The first Arab woman astronaut speaks exclusively to WION.

UAE's first female astronaut Nora Al-Matrooshi speaks to WION

The President-elect of the seventy-sixth session of the United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid has said that under his leadership he will "make sure the members move forward on this process". Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Abdulla who is on a Delhi visit pointed out that his "presidency of hope" will have a focus on covid crisis, rebuilding sustainably, reviving the economic devastation, UNSC reforms, climate change as the main issues.

"Will take UNSC reform forward," says UNGA President-elect Abdulla Shahid

Afghanistan's Ambassador to India Farid Mamundzay speaks to WION's Molly Gambhir on the Afghan security situation and India's role in the peace process.

'Very problematic and difficult time for Afghanistan', says Farid Mamundzay

Global markets are once again touching new highs, US markets are at a record high already. There are multiple risks that are being faced by economies as well. What is the outlook for global economies and what is the way ahead? Daily Effects Strategist from Asian Financial Hub Singapore, Margaret Yang Yen talks to WION on these issues.

Global stock markets likely to be range bound says Margaret Yang, Strategist DailyFX

Amid the worry over the Taliban making territorial gains in Afghanistan, afghan envoy Farid Mamundzay has said, attacks came as a surprise, and the group is not giving "peace a chance". speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Farid said, "we will see more difficult days as things stand today. We don't see the reduction of violence on part of the Taliban." Here is this exclusive conversation.

Exclusive: Afghan envoy to India Farid Mamundzay says Taliban continues to unleash violence

While speaking exclusively to WION on the issue of withdrawal from Afghanistan, NATO Parliamentary Assembly Vice President Marietta Giannakou said that NATO will continue to stand with the people of Afghanistan. She also added that "we need to avoid the security vacuum in the country because it would jeopardise the progress made so far".

Exclusive: NATO Parliamentary Assembly VP says will continue to stand with people of Afghanistan

Nissan India has launched an integrated general awareness and safety campaign with cricketer Kapil Dev that aims to educate & empower India against COVID-19 through Cricket. WION talks to the Managing Director of Nissan India, Rakesh Srivastava about this campaign.

Nissan India launches campaign with cricketer Kapil Dev to promote COVID-19 awareness

The countdown to the 2020 Olympics is underway with less than a month to go for the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Games. The organisers and the International Olympic Committee have unveiled a series of measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 during the two-week-long event and a severe breach of restrictions could even lead to expulsion. Many are calling these measures harsh but Indian medal hopeful and reigning Badminton World Champion PV Sindhu has backed the IOC's plans for keeping her and her fellow athletes safe. Sindhu was in conversation with WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

Exclusive: PV Sindhu looks ahead to Tokyo Olympics | World Champion backs COVID-19 countermeasures

With Australia taking China to WTO over wine tariffs, Molly Gambhir speaks to Australian Trade Minister Dan Tehan on the trade war with China, COVID-19 origin probe and India-Australia economic ties.

Exclusive: Australia to file formal complaint against China says Trade Minister Dan Tehan

India and New Zealand face off in the first-ever ICC World Test Championship final from Friday. The one-off match at Southampton's Rose Bowl is the culmination of a two-year cycle that also saw a new points format introduced to cater to the COVID-19 disruptions. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar sets up the clash in a conversation with Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

Exclusive: Sachin Tendulkar previews India-New Zealand ICC World Test Championship final

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