Viral ‘Peaky Blinders’ Photos in Afghanistan Lead to Taliban Warning

Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities summoned four young men in Herat after photos of them wearing “Peaky Blinders”-style outfits went viral online, accusing them of promoting “foreign culture” that conflicts with Islamic and Afghan values.

The men, dressed in flat caps and three-piece suits inspired by the British TV series, were ordered to report to the Ministry of Vice and Virtue, where they were questioned and told that such clothing violates the cultural norms enforced under Taliban rule.

Officials said the outfits lacked Afghan identity and warned that imitating foreign actors goes against Sharia principles. The men were released after what officials described as a “rehabilitation program,” though details of the encounter remain unclear.

Before the summons, the group had said locals reacted positively to their vintage fashion and often asked for photos. Since taking power in 2021, the Taliban have imposed a wide range of lifestyle restrictions, including dress codes, entertainment bans, and limits on public expression.