WHEN
May 12–16, 2018
WHERE
Kalash Valley
HOW
It’s a 10-hour drive from Islamabad to Chitral;
alternatively, you can fly into Chitral’s
Peshawer Airport. From there, rent a jeep
DOS AND DON’TS- Do follow the instructions of safety
officials, as tourists are often not allowed
to participate directly in the festivities - Don’t photograph girls without permission
EXPERIENCE
CHILAM JOSHIA celebration of spring, this festival
is unique to the Kalash Valley tribe.
Ten days before the festival, dairy
farmers set aside large quantities of
milk, and the day before the festival,
people decorate their homes with
walnut branches and flowers.
Commemorating the abundance of
dairy products during the season, the
four-day festivities begin with goat
milk and other dairy products being
distributed among the community.
Infants may be baptised in milk. People
may also offer milk to the god Goshidai
by pouring milk over an idol of the god,
or spreading the milk in their fields.
This is followed by a prayer for the
safety of their herds and for a good
harvest of crops in the coming year.
Women wear traditional black
floor-length dresses with elaborate
floral patterns, beaded necklaces and
ornate headdresses, called copesi,
made from stones and thread. Men
don the traditional dress and cap,
finished off with woollen waistcoats.
FESTIVAL MUST-SEE: CHILAM JOSHI
Paki stan
These traditional outfits are made by
hand three months before the festival.
Together, they dance folk dances in
circles while singing traditional songs
to the rhythm of music and drums.
Single youths use the opportunity to
seek out potential partners.
A sacred song, called gatch, is also
performed, praying for the abundance
of milk. Other songs about the past
of the tribe and its ruling days – and
prayers to the dead – are also sung.
Near the end of the festivities, tribe
elders will tell stories and legends from
the past for younger members to hear.PAKISTANKalash Valley81