CHITRAL: The religious festival of Chilam Joshi has commenced in Kalash Valley, and it will continue until May 17, according to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KP tourism). A significant number of tourists, both local and foreign, have arrived in Kalash Valley to join in the festivities, as confirmed by the spokesperson of the Tourism Authority.
Tomorrow, people from the Kalash, Rumbur, and Bumburet valleys will gather in Bomborait for the festival, as stated by spokesperson Muhammad Saad. During the festival, various customs and rituals are being performed, as added by Saad. The Kalash community has successfully preserved its cultural and religious traditions, as acknowledged by DG of Culture and Tourism Authority Bakhtiyar Khan.
Accommodation facilities, including guesthouses and camping pods provided by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KP Tourism), are available for visitors attending the festival, as mentioned by Khan. The Tourism Authority spokesperson, Muhammad Saad, highlighted that Tourism Police personnel are dedicatedly ensuring the smooth proceedings of the festive celebrations.
What is Chilam Joshi?
Chilam Joshi is an annual religious festival celebrated by the Kalash community in Chitral, Pakistan. It takes place during spring in May and signifies the beginning of a new season and the desire for a bountiful harvest. During Chilam Joshi, the Kalash people adorn themselves in traditional attire, engage in spirited dances, melodious songs, and partake in a variety of customs and rituals.
The festival attracts a diverse range of visitors, both domestic and international, who are captivated by the lively and colorful celebrations, offering them a remarkable experience of the Kalash community’s unique culture and traditions.
Report by Muhammad Nadeem from Peshawar.
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