Pahari Expression

The cultural heartbeat of the Pahari people pulses through their poetry, music and dance each a sacred thread in the vibrant tapestry of mountain life. Pahari poetry, rooted in oral tradition, sings of love, longing, devotion and nature’s rhythms. Verses like Jagar, Baramasa and Laman aren’t just recited, but sung with deep feeling, echoing through valleys and connecting souls. Poets like Swami Anterneerav and Liaqat Jaffari gave voice to both romance and revolution, while regional legends like Saleem Beigh preserved these emotions in verses.

These poetic traditions seamlessly blend into folk music, where ballads of heroism and celebration are performed during weddings and festivals. Instruments like dhol, murli, damau, algoza and sargi give life to age-old stories passed through generations. In Kashmir, Paharis, Doha, Doriya and Bayat performances stir valleys with soulful resonance.

Completing this triad of expression, Pahari dance transforms verse and melody into movement. Whether the graceful ghatkaand double guttak holi of Kashmir Paharis or the dynamic Nati of Himachal Pradesh recognized by UNESCO, these dances preserve folklore and communal identity. Women performing Seirfe and Maya embody love and resilience with elegance. Together, poetry, music and dance reflect the collective spirit of the Pahari people.

The history of sports among the Paharis is very ancient. From Uttrakhand to Karnah, Pahari tribe has a long tradition of sporting activities, from casual games to major events. Pahari sports involved strong kinship ties and promoted community support. In ancient times, people used to amuse themselves by playing traditional games like horse riding and hunting. These were common among the elders. The children, however, used to play games and sports like Iti-danda (guli-danda), Teer Kaman (archery), bagh bakri, kabbadi, chappan-buddi (hide & seek) and cheeto etc.

In the remote and picturesque Karnah Valley, tucked away in the northernmost corner of J&K, Sports isn’t just an activity; it is a way of life. When the sun dips behind the Shamshabari peaks and the day’s chores are done, the people of Karnah gather around shop fronts to discuss, play and breathe sports. This nightly ritual has become an integral part of their Culture.