Mahtab Qala is a London-based band founded by Elaha Soroor (vocals), Sulaiman Haqpana (tabla), and Giuliano Modarelli (guitar). The band takes its name from an area in Kabul, Afghanistan, where Elaha once lived.
Drawing on folk melodies, wedding songs, and party tunes from across Afghanistan’s diverse regions, Mahtab Qala revives the joyful spirit of wedding halls and celebrations, taking audiences on a journey into the memory and heartbeat of Kabul. In 2024, Elaha was named one of the BBC’s 100 Women for her activism and powerful anthem Naan, Kar, Azadi! (“Bread, Work, Freedom!”), affirming her role as a leading voice for Afghan women and the Hazara community.
Ages 12+.
Part of Vaak Festival 2025. Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
Elaha Soroor Instagram / Sulaiman Haqpana Instagram / Giuliano Modarelli Instagram / Vaak Events Instagram
