Kalash Chilam Joshi Festival

One of the major festivals celebrated by the Kalash people is “Chilam Joshi,” also known as the Kalash Spring Festival.

It is characterized by vibrant and colorful traditional clothing, music, and dances. The Kalash people believe that Chilam Joshi brings about the balance of nature and ensures the fertility of the land.

During the festival, the Kalash people perform rituals to honor their gods and goddesses. They make offerings, sing songs, and engage in traditional dances. The festival provides an opportunity for the community to come together, strengthen social bonds, and pass on cultural traditions to younger generations.

There are also various ceremonies including a purification ceremonies.

When a woman is about to give birth, she moves to a separate building called the Bashali. Before she can return to her home, the man of the household performs a ritual baking of six flat loaves, which are handed over to the woman whilst a burning branch is waved over her head. During the preparation of the bread, the man's arms are bared and his hands purified. Throughout the process, the man must not touch anything or anyone not associated with baking bread. They sit with their arms held out while waiting for the bread to cook.