Episode two takes us to Mazar-e-Sharif - home to several past contestants and Afghan Stars. Before meeting the hopefuls, our judges shared their expectations for what it will take to win this year: grace under pressure, knowledge of music as an art and science form, and purity of voice among others. Nonetheless, many auditions were lost to shaky nerves, but there’s always next year…

All manner of talents were put on display in Mazar. [Mohammad Saeed] combined melodies, rhythm, and a tar in a stirring rendition of Laila and Majnoon’s love story, earning him a card to advance to the next round. One young woman was unable to make the auditions in Kabul and made the trek to Mazar for another chance - with her sister listening over the phone has the judges decided her fate. Her gamble paid off and she advanced and is one step closer to her dream. Others traveled from as far as Badakhshan bringing their local vocal styles and instruments (a khushghacheh) with them. Farther still, Laila flew in all the way from Australia and ended the trip on a high note – she’ll advance on the condition that she leaves the judges speechless in the next round. 

Even after nine seasons, Afghan Star is full of surprises. Young Mustapha confesses he did not line up for an audition, but rather for the opportunity to ask for a picture with Ustaad Shahla. Though first he has to recite poetry! Our geographically diverse set of contestants for episode two wrapped up with a young woman whose journey began in Canada, but you’ll have to tune in to see where it ends!

Auditions
Hamidullah – wears a hat. doesn’t pass.
Mohammad saeed – brings a sitar with him.
Anitullah – missed the auditionsin kabul. advances. Called sister on phone so she could listen to auditions
Fellow from badakhshan who sang rudaki with a khushghacheh
Laila from australia
Habib – sings well. Advances. Was perhaps too emotional and lost the tempo, say the judges.
Mustapha - didn't come to sing – just wants a picture with us tad shahla
Manija - Woman from canada.