VOICED: Buzkashi: Afghan game of carcasses and politics

Buzkashi, Afghanistan's national sport, involves two teams competing to place a beheaded calf's carcass into a circle. The game is intense, with few rules, and players use lead-filled whips. Riders wear protective gear, but injuries are common. Buzkashi offers an escape from daily life and holds cultural significance. Originating in Central Asia, it was once played with enemy corpses. Today, it's a winter sport in northern Afghanistan, symbolizing prestige and power for local leaders. Victories bring financial rewards and social status.

What is the main objective in a game of Buzkashi?

• To ride the fastest horse

• To grab a beheaded calf and drop it into a circle

• To score goals by kicking a ball

• To avoid being whipped by other players

What protective gear do Buzkashi riders commonly wear?

• Modern sports uniforms

• Traditional fur hats and sandals

• Heavy jackets and leather boots

• Lightweight helmets and gloves

Where did Buzkashi originate?

• In the Middle East during the Ottoman Empire

• In South America during the Inca Empire

• In Central Asia around the time of Genghis Khan

• In Europe during the medieval period

Why do local leaders invest in Buzkashi?

• To train soldiers for battle

• To improve the economy

• To gain prestige and power

• To promote tourism in their region

What can winners of Buzkashi expect to receive?

• A trophy and a medal

• A trip to a foreign country

• A new horse and a house

• Hundreds of dollars and a large salmon