BOONI: Kaghlasht once again echoed with the sounds of celebration as the annual festival commenced on Friday.
The event, organized under the auspices of the Culture and Tourism Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, features a rich blend of traditional and modern sports, including polo, football, cricket, volleyball, and indigenous games. The festival will conclude on April 20.
The opening ceremony was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Upper Chitral Haseebur Rehman Khan Khalil in the presence of a large crowds and players from across the region.
Addressing the gathering, the DC emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to promoting healthy recreational activities, particularly among youth. “Sports not only ensure physical well-being but also serve as a powerful deterrent against drug use,” he said.
He also highlighted the tourism potential of Kaghlasht, calling it a “gem of Upper Chitral” that draws both domestic and international tourists and supports the local economy through eco-tourism.
Kaghlasht located near Booni has been a traditional venue for seasonal gatherings for nearly 2,000 years. The modern version of Jashn-e-Kaghlasht was revived in 2003 after a long break and quickly became a cherished part of Chitral’s cultural calendar. However, due to various administrative and logistical challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the event could not be held from 2020 to 2023 and was held again last year.
Community elders and local committees, in coordination with the district administration, have always played a crucial role in organizing the event and ensuring a peaceful environment for festivities.
Thousands of people from different valleys of Chitral and other parts of the country are expected to attend over the coming days, enjoying the natural beauty of the plateau along with the rich cultural showcases.