I am certain you must be very eager to know what country it is, given that birthdays come just once a year and this day means the world to some people, hence glitz and glam birthday parties. Now imagine a scenario where celebrating your birthday is criminal and punishable by the law; and even if you are given the freedom to celebrate, it is limited to your home, a number of persons, a particular duration and above all, a specific amount to be spent. Dear fabulous readers, welcome to the Democratic Republic of  Tajikistan.

Tajikistan is a country in Central Asia that is mainly surrounded by Afghanistan, China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Tajikistan is popular for rugged mountains which is perfect for hiking and climbing.

One very important aspect about Tajikistan as you already know is that birthday celebrations are prohibited in this country.

I can see the shock on you face but yeah that's the bitter truth and funny enough, it is boldly written in the law, specifically, Article 8 of the Central Asian republic's law on traditions and customs, prohibiting the celebration of birthdays anywhere except if you are doing so in the privacy of your family circle.

The Law was adopted in 2007, when the president at the time insisted that the practice of big celebrations was a heavy load on Tajik families who would often go into debt in order to keep up appearances.

Isayev Amirbek, a Tajik guy was arrested and fined $634; £400 for celebrating his birthday, after he posted photos on Facebook showing his visit to a cafe with a birthday cake, which were used as evidence that he had broken Article 8 of a law entitled "On regulation of traditions and customs in the Republic of Tajikistan".  Also, Tajik singer Firuza Hafizova was fined $530 for violating the law after a video emerged of her dancing at home with friends.

Hey birthday party connoisseurs, can you survive in this country? Let us know in the comments.

You’ve successfully subscribed to FabAfriq Magazine
Welcome back! You’ve successfully signed in.
Great! You’ve successfully signed up.
Your link has expired
Success! Check your email for magic link to sign-in.