Attan

Attan (Pashto: اتڼ [aˈt̪aɳ] ) is a Pashtun dance. It is performed during formal and informal gatherings such as weddings, picnics, cultural events, and tribal meetings. Historically, the Attan has been conducted by Pashtuns during times of war to instill confidence and energy among warriors readying to battle. It is the national dance of Afghanistan, popularly performed by other ethnic groups within Afghanistan as well, and by the Pashtuns of Pakistan.

Attan is usually performed with a Dohol, which is a double-headed barrel drum. The dance can be anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes in duration and can change in its pace of speed, usually starting with slow movements and then finishing off fast. It revolves around the clapping of the hands that are in snyc with the beat of the drums. The hands are typically free of objects but can involve the use of handkerchiefs for visual enhancements and has historically involved the use of swords and weapons.

Depending on the region and tribe, there are different methods and styles of the Attan, for example the Paktia style. Some of the most popular variations of the dance are Kabuli, Wardaki, Logari, Paktiayi, Khosti, Kandahari, Herati, Waziri, Peshawari, and Mehsudi. Traditionally, the Attan has been performed segregated although in modern times, Pashtuns and others have performed the dance with both men and women together.