Polo ponies and goat grabbing
Afghan horse riders fight to get the goat during a 'buzkashi' game between Parwan and Panshir provinces in Kabul, Afghanistan, today. Buzkashi is the national sport of Afghanistan, in which players fight to place a goat carcass into a circle goal.
In Buzkashi, which means literally “goat grabbing”, a headless carcass is placed in the center of a circle and surrounded by the players of two opposing teams. The object of the game, is to get control of the carcass and bring it to the scoring area. Although it seems like a simple task, it is not. Only the most masterful players, (called chapandaz) ever even get close to the carcass.
The competition is fierce, and the winner of a match receives prizes that have been donated by a sponsor. These prizes range from money, to fine turbans and clothes. In order for someone to become a chapandaz, one must undergo a tremendous amount of difficult training. In fact, the best chapandaz, are usually over the age of forty. Buzkashi, is definitely not a game for the weak.
The horses that participate in buzkashi must train for five years before ever making it to the playing field. Buzkashi, is indeed a dangerous sport, but intensive training and excellent communication between the horse and rider can help minimize the risk of injury.
The different types of Buzkashi: Tudabarai & Qarajai
In Tudabarai, in order to score, the rider must obtain possession of the carcass and then carry it away from the starting circle in any direction. The rider must stay free and clear of the other riders.
In Qarajai, the task is much more complex. The player must carry the calf around a marker, and then return the carcass to the team's designated scoring circle.
Source: Afghanistan Online
Photo Credits: Musadeq Sadeq; Musadeq Sadeq; Musadeq Sadeq ; Musadeq Sadeq
