Kalash Community School - Birir Valley

The Kalash religion is based on myths and superstitions that relate to the relationship between the human soul and the universe. This relationship, according to Kalash mythology, should be manifested through music and dance, which also contributes to the pleasure of gods and goddesses. In their festivals music and dance are performed not as an entertainment item, but as a religious ritual.

One of the most important features of this people include the womens' traditional female dress which includes a black robe, an embroidered long cap decorated with cowrie shells, ornaments and beads. This style of dress is still popular among local women despite the availability of a variety of modern clothes.

The Kalash celebrate four major festivals commemorating seasonal change and significant events in agro-pastoral life. These festivals are Joshi or Chilimjusht, Uchal, Phoo and Chowmos. During the festivals they sacrifice animals at altars to please gods and goddesses. This religious ritual is performed with high regard for the supernatural beings, according to the Kalash mythology.

The Kalash language is called Kalasha which is an archaic type of Indo- European language (Dardic subgroup). It has a rich tradition of folklore, epics, love songs and idioms demonstrating a high standard of indigenous wisdom and human experience. This knowledge is believed to be on the verge of extinction. The new generation of Kalash does not know much about their non-material culture and heritage.