Ahmad Zahir “The Nightingale of Kabul and Diamond of the East” is, even 30 years after his mysterious death, one of the most important, contemporary Afghan musicians and artists in Afghanistan, the Afghan diaspora and in South- and Central-Asia. His influence as an entertainer on the music of the late 20th century is enormous, but too short, because his life ended abruptly. In the 60s and 70s he was an icon and teen idol. With his way of life and his music he represented a free and modern Afghanistan.
“The Nightingale of Kabul” is a journey to the past, the presence and future; a journey, between home country and diaspora; a journey, between the generations – each with their own memories and imaginations. What they have in common is the search for identity. Ahmad Zahir is the guide, the connecting link during this journey.The documentary takes place on two locations: Kabul and Hamburg. One surrounded by the mountains, the other by water. Both cities are connected through Ahmad Zahir’s music. Today 15.000 Afghans are living Hamburg. It is the biggest community in Europe. In both cities I want to find the answers to similar questions.
We will follow our protagonists - friends, colleagues and fans - to observe their personal relationship to Ahmad Zahir, his music and memories. Sometimes the stage is a Zahir fan club in Hamburg or a teahouse in Kabul.
The audience will see unexpected images of Afghanistan, which will be a great contrast to the worldwide known pictures. This documentary will approach the culture, which got almost totally destroyed by war and repression.
