Winter Solstice in the Kalasha Valley

Celebrations of the winter solstice are universal to all cultures. Most modern religions call these holidays by another name, but there are still indigenous cultures practicing the old ways in some of the more remote regions around the world. One of these cultures is the Kalasha people, who have fascinated anthropologists with their culture that is unique from their mostly Islamic surroundings, predating even Zoroastrian traditions.

© Paweł Opaska | Dreamstime

About half the Kalasha people have converted to Islam, but even they seem to maintain the language and culture of their indigenous religion. They do not, however, take part in the annual Chaumos festival, a celebration of the winter solstice and crop harvest that involves visiting family, feasting and dancing. The Kalasha people practice a polytheist religion, venerating the demigod Balomain as he passes through the valley to collect prayers and bring them to the creator Dezau.

© Manal Khan | Flickr

Goats feature heavily in the festival. Men bake bread in the shape of the animal, important for nourishment in the region. There is also the element of animal sacrifice, so be wary if attending the festival. To protect the culture of the region, visitors are required to register with the government of Pakistan, in addition to participating in a purification ritual before entering.