Demolition of Kabul's Historic Ariana Cinema: A Cultural Loss

On December 16, 2025, the historic Ariana Cinema in downtown Kabul was demolished to make way for a new shopping complex. The cinema, which opened in 1963, had long served as a cultural hub for Afghan audiences, showcasing Bollywood and American films. The demolition was completed within a week, marking the end of a venue that had survived decades of conflict and political upheaval, including the Taliban's previous regime and the Soviet invasion.

Afghanistan’s Historic Ariana Cinema Demolished for New Shopping CenterCNNTaliban Demolish Historic Ariana Cinema in Kabul

The Ariana Cinema was established during a period of modernization in Afghanistan under the monarchy, symbolizing a blend of tradition and contemporary culture. It endured significant damage during the civil war of the 1990s but was rebuilt in 2004 with assistance from the French government following the Taliban's ousting. The cinema became a gathering place for Kabul residents, providing an escape from daily hardships through film.

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Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, the government has imposed strict limitations on cultural expression, including bans on films and music. In May 2023, the Taliban dissolved the Afghan Film Administration, effectively shuttering all cinemas, including the Ariana. Kabul Municipality spokesman Niamatullah Barakzai stated that the decision to demolish the cinema was driven by economic considerations, as the area was deemed suitable for commercial development.

CNNAfghanistan’s Historic Ariana Cinema Demolished for New Shopping CenterTaliban Demolish Historic Ariana Cinema in Kabul

The demolition has faced significant backlash from artists and cultural figures. Afghan film director Amir Shah Talash expressed that the loss of the cinema represents a broader erasure of Afghanistan's artistic heritage. He stated, “It’s not just a building made of bricks and cement that is being destroyed, but the Afghan cinema lovers who resisted and continued their art despite the hardships.” Critics argue that economic development cannot justify the destruction of cultural landmarks that have shaped Afghanistan's social fabric.

Afghanistan’s Historic Ariana Cinema Demolished for New Shopping Center

For many, the Ariana Cinema held personal significance. Sohaib Romi, a Pakistani film enthusiast, recalled watching films there with his uncle, stating, “My memories are buried in the rubble of the Ariana Cinema.” This sentiment reflects the cinema's role not only as a venue for entertainment but as a repository of collective memories for generations.

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Kabul Municipality defended the demolition, asserting that the area had commercial potential and that the project aimed to generate revenue and foster economic growth. Barakzai emphasized the need for development in the city, stating, “Cinemas themselves are a kind of commercial activity, and that area had the potential for a good market.”

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Despite the demolition, Talash remains hopeful about the future of Afghan art, asserting that while physical structures may collapse, the spirit of creativity endures in the hearts and minds of the people. He noted, “Buildings may collapse, but art lives on in the minds and hearts of people,” suggesting that the cultural legacy of the Ariana Cinema may persist beyond its physical presence.

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