Hasht-e Subh Commentary Warns Silencing Art Leaves History Ashamed

A commentary published by Hasht-e Subh argues that when leaders treat art as marginal and allocate no budgets to books, theater, cinema or music, society loses the spirit of life. The piece describes scenarios where musical instruments are broken, voices silenced, dance and song labeled 'haram,' and politicians avoid cultural festivals, viewing them as threats. It criticizes education systems stripped of art, philosophy and global cultural history, depriving youth of beauty, criticism, imagination and creation. Simple joys like listening to music or dancing at gatherings are portrayed as deemed sinful.

The article contends that without a grand cultural and artistic policy or cultural diplomacy, the country cannot engage the world through art. It notes that television, radio, news and magazines broadcast only one-sided religious content, silencing diverse voices, particularly those of women. Words like 'love,' 'affection' and 'friendship' are said to be treated as crimes, turning society into a 'silent prison' where humanity is imprisoned.

Such a society may appear orderly but is described as cold, soulless, with monologue replacing dialogue, censorship supplanting criticism, and fear stifling creativity. Artists fall silent or migrate, and women are deprived of effective societal roles, leading to a 'colorless and tuneless' community that 'rots from within.' Art is called the 'breath of life' and love the 'essence of being human.'

In conclusion, the commentary urges leaders, invoking figures like Rumi, Alisher Navoi, Rabia Balkhi, Jamaluddin Afghani and others, to consult educators, scholars, writers and artists before historical shame brings irreparable consequences. It states history will judge, advocating 'saving culture, saving humanity.'