Afghanistan’s Hindu and Sikh residents were preparing for 320th Vesak Festival by holding events in Kabul on Friday.

Known also as Buddha Day, the festival is celebrated by music and dance in Kabul and other provinces where the Hindu and Sikh residents are living.

Government officials have been invited to attend the event in Kart-e-Parwan area in Kabul.

“Comparing to the past, their (Hindus and Sikhs) problems have been resolved recently. I want their educated ones to be hired in government departments,” Mohammad Yaqoob Ahmadzai, deputy minister for borders and tribal affairs, said.

Hindu and Sikh residents said they are faced with numerous challenges, including those in performing their rituals.

“Unfortunately, no Sikh or Hindu has remained in Helmand province. They have gone because they face problems, even for cremation events,” said Anarkali Honaryar, member of Meshrano Jirga, Upper House of Parliament.

The Hindu and Sikh residents meanwhile said they do not have an easy access to education.

There is only one school for Hindu and Sikh residents in Shor Bazar area in Kabul.

Students said the school is too far and that they can reach there on time.

Dalwinder, a school student, said she learns local languages to be able to continue her education.

“We want to go to other schools and learn new things and continue our higher education,” she said.

Hindus and Sikhs have lived in Afghanistan for generations, but the various wars have forced many to leave the country and settle elsewhere.