Pakistani comedian Alamzeb Mujahid, also known as Janaan, announced his retirement from showbiz at a news conference after being freed from kidnapping by Islamist militants in Peshawar city. While Mujahid did not provide details about his kidnapping or reasons for quitting, friends and colleagues believe he was targeted by Islamist vigilantes seeking to impose Taliban-style values in the North West Frontier Province. Despite his successful career in theater and television, the 38-year-old actor is now growing a beard for his future beyond comedy. Reluctant to discuss his life-changing experience, Mujahid told Reuters that he was joining Tablighi Jamaat, a Muslim missionary group, in order to preach religion. He solemnly stated, "God has provided for me in the past and will continue to do so." Mujahid was fortunate, as others who had angered militant morality squads were not given a second chance. A recent incident in January involved a woman named Shabana, a dancer, who was pulled onto the street and shot in the center of Mingora, a town in Swat, a valley located about 130 km (80 miles) north of the capital Islamabad, where militants hold significant control. In December, gunmen attempted to assassinate Pashtun singer Sardar Yousafzai in Dir district as he was returning home from performing at a wedding. Although he managed to escape, his harmonium player, Anwar Gul, was killed and four others were injured in the attack. The atmosphere for individuals involved in the entertainment industry in the area became hostile after Islamist parties gained power in NWFP, fueled by anti-American sentiment following the US invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. These disapproving parties prohibited music on public transportation and removed movie posters featuring women, while militants took even more extreme measures. Initially, music stores in tribal regions like Waziristan were targeted, followed by a spread of attacks throughout the northwest as the influence of Islamist groups expanded towards urban areas. In June, armed Taliban militants moved through Peshawar, warning music store owners to shut down or face repercussions. This incident caused alarm in Pakistan shortly after a civilian government took office, prompting security forces to take action. Subsequently, more tribal areas and districts in the NWFP have become hubs for militants, leading to military offensives in regions like Bajaur and Mohmand. Although progress is being made in certain areas, insecurity is deteriorating in others, including Peshawar. The defeat of Islamist parties in NWFP after an election last year initially brought optimism that the region would once again be a safe place for cultural activities. However, the secular Pashtun party currently in power has not been able to fulfill this promise, despite its positive intentions. Syed Aqil Shah, who serves as the provincial minister for sports and culture, emphasized the importance of all individuals taking a stand against militants. He stressed that addressing these threats cannot solely be the responsibility of the government, but requires the collective effort of the entire population and civil society. Despite the dangers involved, many individuals, including singers and musicians, have already chosen to leave the country, with others planning to do the same. "I am afraid to leave my house. Even when I do go out, my wife constantly calls to make sure I am safe," shared a singer who requested anonymity out of concern for possible retaliation by militants. "The fear is overwhelming. That's why I am considering moving abroad." Some others have opted for safer means of supporting their families financially. A musician, who now makes a living selling fruit and vegetables, lamented that ninety percent of the music industry is no longer thriving. His harmonium sat next to him, unused and gathering dust.