VOICED : Afghanistans ultimate test of manhood: Polo with a carcass

Buzkashi, Afghanistan's national sport, involves horsemen competing to drag a headless carcass to score goals. The sport, with a history of 800 years, requires players to be strong, skilled, and well-trained. It is both a passion and a source of income for many, with high-profile games offering significant prizes. Buzkashi faced a ban during the Taliban regime but has since resumed, maintaining its cultural significance. The sport is traditionally male-dominated, with even the horses being male. The biggest tournament coincides with the Persian New Year, and the sport provides a cultural escape from the country's violence.

What is the primary objective in the sport of Buzkashi?

• To race across the field

• To perform acrobatics on horseback

• To score a goal by dragging a carcass

• To ride the fastest horse

During which period was Buzkashi banned by the Taliban?

• 2002 to 2007

• 1990 to 1995

• 2008 to 2013

• 1996 to 2001

What is unique about the participants and horses in Buzkashi?

• Participants are female, horses are male

• Participants are male, horses are female

• Both are male

• Both are female

Where does Afghanistan's biggest Buzkashi tournament take place?

• Kabul

• Herat

• Mazar-i-Sharif

• Kandahar

What cultural event coincides with the largest Buzkashi tournament?

• Eid al-Fitr

• Persian New Year

• Nowruz

• Afghan Independence Day