Lemar-Aftaab is an independent, quarterly digest that focuses on Afghan culture, arts, literature, music, and the plight of Afghans throughout the world. Lemar-Aftaab is also a non-political based publication. This magazine takes no sides with any political groups or organizations.

You many ask why this magazine is named "Lemar-Aftaab". The "lemar", "aftaab" or "sun" has taken a significant part in our culture. Not only was sun worshipping one of the ancient state religions of ancient Afghanistan, but also it is the light of the sun that awakes us from the dark night. It is the sun that streams light into our hearts and makes us live.

We have created a publication to be the beacon of light for Afghans to discover their rich culture and to identify and become aware of the various lives of other Afghans throughout the world. Currently, there is no publication that provides such a perspective. The vast majority of Afghan publications today deal with politics. None explore and make visible Afghan culture.

The Internet is a superb media for communication. It has grown quickly in these years, and there are many Afghans in this fast growing network. We have met many Afghans, exchanged ideas, and made friends along the way. The majority of the Afghans on the Internet range from the ages of thirteen to thirty-five. These Afghans are the generation that will rebuild Afghanistan. They are the ones that will make a difference. And it is our goal for them to interact with this magazine and to gain knowledge of their heritage and culture.

We encourage everyone to summit articles, music, short stories, poems and any other aspect of Afghan culture to the magazine. They can be in Dari, Pashto, English or any other languages, but remain clear from politics.

This magazine is a community effort. We want to read your comments on what you think of Lemar-Aftaab. We are here to serve you in any way we can. So please feel free to send your comments. Lemar-Aftaab is your magazine!

We hope that this magazine serves the needs of Afghans throughout the world. We have many plans and with your help, it will happen. We want this magazine to be as warm and embracing as the lemar/aftaab that shines in the skies above.

Farhad Azad
Publisher