KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – A young singer who gained recognition on a popular television music show before the Taliban’s return to power has died by suicide in Kabul, local sources reported.
The singer, identified as Asher Ehsas, took his life at his home in the Khair Khana area of Kabul on Thursday, October 9, according to the sources. Ehsas, originally from Panjshir province, had reportedly been struggling with depression and had been living alone in recent years.
Ehsas gained recognition several years ago through his participation in Afghan Star, one of the country’s most popular talent shows during the previous government. He reached the top six in that year’s competition, earning recognition among young audiences for his performances.
Since returning to power, the Taliban have banned music, calling it un-Islamic under their interpretation of Islamic law. The group has detained dozens of artists and singers, while many others have fled the country to escape harassment and abuse. Those who remain often live in fear and isolation.
Afghanistan’s mental health crisis has deepened in recent years. A Gallup survey conducted in 2023 found that 98% of Afghans experience psychological distress — among the highest rates globally. Women and girls face even greater mental strain as they are barred from education, employment, and public spaces such as parks and gyms.
Investigations by Etilaatroz and KabulNow found that at least 213 people, mostly under the age of 20, took their own lives in 2023. The true figure is believed to be higher, as many cases go unreported due to Taliban restrictions on media and the stigma surrounding mental health in Afghanistan.
