Exclusive Interview with Shabnam Zahir By Khaleda Atta April-Sept. 1999 Lemar-Aftaab To be the daughter of Ahmad Zahir, to be known and recognized by all. To live life in the eyes of thousands watching --that is to be Shabnam Zahir. Ever since leaving Afghanistan at the age of one, Shabnam has lived in Northern Virginia (Washington DC Area). She recently turned twenty and attends George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. "My major is [undecided], but I narrowed it down to MIS (Management Information Systems) or CS (Computer Science)," Shabnam said. Her hobbies include traveling, skiing, rollerblading and writing poetry. Ahmad Zahir was killed on the day of Shabnam's birth(June 14, 1979). In filling the paternal void, her mother has far exceeded her limits in parental nurturing. "Throughout my childhood up to now, I have never felt hollow or vulnerable for a paternal love. My mother has surpassed not only as a mother but as a father too," Shabnam said. Expressing admiration for her mother, Shabnam added, "my mother is a blessing from God. She is my best friend, mother, father, sibling, mentor, teacher and an angel". "My mother has taught me to love and respect my father. Every Father's Day, she is never empty-handed...the greatest obligation one owes on this earth is to one's mother." "I have so many wonderful figures in my life...my family on both sides are phenomenal. I am very proud and honored to be surrounded by such graceful people," Shabnam said. Her family has been there to bridge the gaps. "I have no regrets or expectations on life. If you accept your life for what it is you tend to have a much better time." So what exactly does Shabnam know of her father? "I've learned that my father was a symbol of love, unity and humbleness. He was not only talented musically, but talented in keeping grounded and being studious...he was devoted to his music and people." Shabnam is proud of her father and his achievements in the world of music. "I'm honored to be the daughter of a well known public figure, not only for his credibility as a musician but as an individual too." Ahmad Zahir is the number one choice in Afghan music for Shabnam. "Generally speaking- I love music. My interest in music is universal. I love it all, but my all time favorite is Ahmad Zahir, humbly-speaking..." Shabnam's dual assimilation within the Afghan and American cultures, like many other Afghan youth, has been a learned journey. In regards to being Afghan, Shabnam stated, "I love my culture. I am proud to be an Afghan. Meeting people of my native country is always exhilarating." "America is pretty sweet too..." she added. Shabnam Zahir has strong feelings for Islam, as she is always "striving to be a pious Muslim." "I love my religion and strive to fear Allah," she remarked. As last words, Shabnam commented, "I'd like to thank all the Afghans world-wide, especially the youth, for being true fans and cherishing [my father's] music. I am in awe with your dedications and efforts to make his name live forever...If I could elaborate any further information about my father to you all, please don't hesitate to email me [at] szahir@osf1.gmu.edu. 'Mard nameyrat ba marg. Marg az oh nam joost. Naam chu jaweyd shood. Murdanesh ahsaan kujahast'." - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Other work by Khaleda Atta: Interview with Dr. Zieba Shorish-Shamley (July-Sept. 1998) Ehsan Aman Concert Brings Help to Quake Victims (April-June 1998) Aid Relief Efforts Made by Afghans in America for Earthquake Victims (April-June 1998) International Women's Day Aims at Bringing Hope to Women in Afghanistan (April-June 1998) Afghan Neurologist (Oct-Dec 1997) Copyright © 1999 Aftaabzad Publications. All Rights Reserved. May not be duplicated or distributed in any form without permission.