| dc.description.abstract | Kalash is the indigenous groups of people residing in northern Pakistan in Chitral
District, having a religion which is associated with animism( but the exact name is not
known) and unique culture. The most commonly believed hypothesis is that they ruled the
whole district from 2nd Century BC till the mid 17th century. Gradually, due to many
factors, Kalash lost their power and authority the region it had controlled before. Now their
population is limited to three regions of Chitral namely, Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir, and
approximately 3000 Kalash people live in these valleys altogether. Many studies have
shown that Kalash culture is under threat of extinction because of the insignificant role of
the government towards the preservation of their culture. Government’s indifferent
attitude in terms of protecting Kalash is threatening sign of their extinction. Being a
minority in Chitral, Kalash people face different issues from the dominating Muslim culture.
Mostly, they have been converted to Islam through missionaries as well as intermarriages.
More often than not, Kalash people are deprived of many opportunities, including
education and employment by the government. Nevertheless, Kalash people are a big
source of income to the whole of Pakistan due to their different culture and practices. The
regions where Kalash reside serves as a tourist spot. The government should realize the
importance and the benefits of Kalash culture for the country and initiate more measures in
order to protect and promote their culture. | en_US |
