Cheques distributed among Kalash Qazis

GH Farooqui

CHITRAL: In order to ensure preservation and promotion of the culture of Kalash community and other minorities, the government is patronizing a number of festival and events in the province.

Among these events, three annual festivals of the Kalash festivals in Chitral are being funded by the government through the Auqaf department and the minorities division.

This was stated by chief minister’s special assistant Wazir Zada while speaking at a function held to distribute cheques among Qazis and deserving people of the Kalash community.

Cheques of Rs4,800 each were handed over to 550 people to facilitate them in celebrating their cultural and religious functions. The beneficiaries also included orphan children. 

Chief Qazis of the three valleys of Bumburate, Birir and Rumbur were also given Rs100,000 each for the local residents. Representatives of Christians, Sikhs, Hindus and other minorities also participated in the event. A shield was given to a volunteer from Greece for his meritorious services in Kalash valleys.

According to the Kalash traditions, guests are dressed in Chitrali cap and the religious robe (cloak) of Kalash which is considered as a sign of respect.