CHITRAL: The Chilam Joshi festival, an ancient tradition of the Kalash people, has begun in the picturesque Rumbur valley of Pakistan’s northwestern Chitral region. This festivity marks the arrival of spring within the Kalash community and is celebrated annually from May 13th to 16th.
Characterized by vibrant colors and cultural richness, the festival celebrates the arrival of spring and the melting of snow with an array of cultural performances, melodious music, lively dances, and traditional sports. It stands as a cornerstone of the region’s cultural heritage, attracting curious visitors from around the world.
Women are adorned in colorful traditional attire, accentuated with gleaming gold and silver ornaments and intricate headpieces, while men wear traditional Shalwar Kameez paired with woollen waistcoats.
Amidst rhythmic drum beats, Kalash women and men dance in harmonious circles, singing and dancing with joy.
During this jubilant occasion, prayers are offered for the protection of fields and livestock, symbolized by the sharing of milk among kinfolk.
The festival grounds bustle with a diverse crowd, including local and international tourists, as well as officials from the district administration and tourism department, all partaking in the three-day festivities.
Security measures have been meticulously implemented by the district administration, ensuring a safe environment for all attendees.
Additionally, the Tourism Police provide guidance services to tourists, enhancing their experience amidst the cultural extravaganza.
The celebration pulses with fervor as traditional dances and rituals unfold, encapsulating the essence of Kalash heritage. After the celebrations, the Kalash people embark on their annual journey, guiding their livestock to high-altitude pastures.
Spread across the scenic valleys of Bumburate, Birir, and Rumbur, the festival resonates with the rhythmic beats of traditional drums, as Kalasha girls and boys revel in the joyous spirit of their ancestral customs.
