Attan () is a form of dance that originated in the Pashtun regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Attan began as a folk dance conducted by Pashtuns in times of war or during weddings or other celebrations (engagements, new year, and informal gatherings). It is now considered the national dance of Afghanistan. The performance of attan dance in the open air has long been customary in the Afghan culture.”attan.” Encyclopædia Britannica. 2009. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. 13 Oct. 2009 . Attan is a special type of dance performed by a troupe of 50 to 100 dancers who wave red scarves in the air while musicians beat drums. This dance is common among the Pashtuns and the ruling elite promoted it as the national dance of Afghanistan.
