Modernization and Chitrali core values
Ihsanullah Meer
Modernization has brought about significant changes in Chitral, opening doors to new opportunities and a globalized world. The advent of technology, better education, improved infrastructure, and access to the wider world have undeniably benefited the people of Chitral. These changes have fostered economic growth, enhanced health services, and increased awareness about the importance of education, especially for women. The younger generation now has access to global knowledge, allowing them to compete on a broader scale, and the influx of new ideas has enriched the cultural tapestry of the region.
However, as we embrace these positive aspects of modernization, it is essential to stride cautiously. While modernization offers numerous benefits, it also poses challenges to the preservation of our cultural identity, particularly the core values that define us as Chitralis.
Chitrali culture is often showcased through its vibrant dance and music, traditional food, and the iconic polo game. These elements are celebrated not only within Chitral but across Pakistan during various occasions and seasons particularly during the winters. The arrangement of musical concerts in major cities, appearances of notable singers and writers on television, and the opening of traditional food restaurants in various locations are all part of the efforts to keep these aspects of our culture alive. Polo, a sport synonymous with Chitral, continues to be portrayed on a higher level, and even the Kalash dress, which although belongs to a minority group in Chitral, is advertised as part of Chitrali culture.
These efforts are commendable and necessary for preserving the tangible aspects of our culture. However, the essence of Chitrali culture goes beyond dance, music, and food. It lies in the core values that have been passed down through generations—generosity, hospitality, uprightness, honesty, brotherhood, empathy, loyalty, respect for elders and kindness among others .These values are the true soul of Chitral, and they require equal, if not more, attention and preservation.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in these core values. The pressures of modernization and the allure of a more individualistic, materialistic lifestyle have significantly contributed to this erosion. There are many examples that highlight this troubling trend. For instance, a recent incident in Peshawar, where a shopkeeper made a public appeal on Facebook for help in recovering money allegedly borrowed by Chitrali students who then disappeared, starkly illustrates the compromise of values like honesty and uprightness. Similarly, the rise in criminal activities, such as the tragic murder of a youth in Reshun last year, where innovative methods were employed to conceal the crime, underscores a worrying decline in moral adherence.
The role of women and youth in this cultural transition is also significant. While it is heartening to see our girls and boys becoming more active and visible in public life, their ways of participation in live performances and social media platforms, where they dance to modern tunes, should not overshadow the core values guiding Chitrali society. The youth, who are the torchbearers of our future, seem increasingly influenced by external, often superficial, cultural norms, which challenge the traditional values of modesty, dignity, and respect that have long been upheld in Chitrali society.
As we continue to modernize, it is imperative to strike a balance between embracing the benefits of modernization and preserving the core values that define us. Modernization should not come at the cost of losing our identity. It is possible to be progressive and still hold on to the principles that make us who we are.
While preserving dance, music, and food is essential, equal efforts are needed to revive and promote the core values of Chitrali culture. For example, “Anjuman Taraqi Khowar” has made significant strides in preserving and promoting the Khowar language and music, illustrating the powerful impact of dedicated cultural initiatives. Similarly, to preserve other core values of Chitral, we should undertake community-driven efforts, such as forming local cultural committees to organize events and educational programs that emphasize Chitrali core values. Developing workshops focused on traditional values like honesty and respect, integrated with modern life skills, can also make a significant impact.
The SAFO Library, established by a group of students from Upper Chitral, is a commendable initiative that encourages the youth to read and engage with Chitrali heritage. By expanding its collection to include local stories and historical texts, and potentially opening branches in various villages, the SAFO Library could serve as a vital platform for reinforcing Chitrali cultural values. Additionally, creating value-based extracurricular activities in schools, such as role-playing and community service projects, and partnering with local experts for educational insights, can help students understand and appreciate these core values.
The involvement of religious scholars, including Khateebs, Imams, and Waizeen, is vital in this process. They can host workshops or seminars in community centers to discuss moral teachings and their application in modern contexts. Creating and distributing educational materials that address the importance of core values alongside religious education will further support this effort.
Social media influencers have a powerful role in shaping public perceptions and behaviors. They can use their platforms to share stories and examples that highlight the positive application of Chitrali core values in everyday life and run awareness campaigns encouraging the youth to embrace traditional values while engaging with modern trends.
Parents can also play a crucial role in ensuring that their children grow up with a strong sense of identity. Encouraging open discussions about the challenges of modernization and the importance of maintaining core values, as well as actively participating in and supporting local cultural activities, will set a positive example for the younger generation.
Modernization is inevitable, and its benefits are clear. However, as we move forward, we must do so with caution, ensuring that we do not lose the essence of who we are. The Chitrali culture, with its rich traditions and deep-rooted values, is worth preserving. By consciously striving to maintain a balance between the old and the new, we can ensure that the Chitrali way of life remains vibrant and relevant in the modern world.