In pictures: Afghan Independence Day

Thousands of people in Afghanistan have been celebrating their country's independence day - the first since the fall of the Taleban. To mark 83 years since the end of British colonial rule, President Karzai paid homage to millions of Afghans who had died fighting foreign occupation.

The crowds made their way to Kabul's main football stadium in high spirits

Many came to show their support for the new regime

Kabul's military parade was cancelled due to security fears, although Kandahar's parade went ahead

But guns were still an integral part of Kabul's celebrations

In a show of solidarity, President Hamid Karzai appeared next to former King Zahir Shah

The president released a dove symbolising peace

Pictures were held up in tribute to the assassinated Northern Alliance leader Ahmad Shah Masood

So many people flocked to Kabul's stadium, the police were forced to turn many away

But in Kandahar, the atmosphere was calmer, and those without a ticket found alternative vantage points