Cultural Festivals of Chitral
Chitral is located in the north of Pakistan, in the mountainous area and it represents the rich traditions of multicolored cultures of local people and bright Festivals that they perform. Not only do these festivals affirm people’s cultural particularity, but also the interchange and fellowship of communities.
The Kalash Spring Festival locally called Chilim Jusht is one of the famous traditional festivals of Chitral valley. This festival is observed among the Kalash people, one of the few vestiges of the original inhabitants of Gilgit-Baltistan. Chilim Jusht Festival is normally celebrated in May. It is one of the prominent festivals of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa which identifies the return of spring, which is cherished as a time of plenty. Dance, music, and other shows are presented, the performances of the villagers include dances and singing, rituals dedicated to ancestors and spirits. A focus on clothing and accessories is also one of the most significant features of Chilim Jusht: the costumes of the Kalash people include elaborate headscarves and embroidered shawls, which are also decorated with beads and reflect the tribes’ individuality.
Another important festival of Chitral is the Shandur Polo Festival being celebrated every year in Shandur Pass which is also known as the Roof of the World with a height of 3763 meters. The festival is normally held during the early part of July and is participated by polo lovers as well as spectators hailing from Pakistan and other neighboring countries. The polo known as ‘’the game of kings,’’ is played between teams of Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan. Adventure sports are associated with the steep terrains of Shandur Pass which makes visual settings of this sporting event quite splendid. In addition to polo matches other activities, which are implemented as part of the festival, are dances, songs, and interactions between local people and craftsmen.
Chitral also celebrates uchal which is a festival celebrated only by the Kho Muslims of the province. Uchal is identified by spirituality, merrymaking, and celebrations that remind people of cultural togetherness and the existence of the supernatural.
