The Pir Panjal region in Western Jammu and Kashmir is home to the Paharis and Bakarwals, speakers of Pahari and Gojri. Deeply rooted in spiritual traditions like Sufism, Sikhism, and Shaktism, our culture flows with the Jhelum River itself. Pahari, meaning ‘hill dweller’, includes dialects like Mirpuri/Chibhali and Punchhi.
A mosaic of clans and tribes, with Rajputs and Sudhans as the most politically influential elite. Chieftains and nobles hailed from clans like Chib, Gakhar, Jaral, Mangral, Bomba, and Janjua. Brahmins such as the Mohyal and Datt clans were prominent in the military and administration alongside Rajputs and Sudhans, while others focused on religious and scholarly duties like Syeds. The mercantile Khatris, especially the Sodhi and Arora clans, played a major role in Mirpur’s trade. Jatts, mainly agriculturists and landowners from clans like Arnyal, Kalyal, and Gill, also served in the military. Gujjars, both settled farmers and nomads, were found across the hills.
Our traditions are centuries old and deeply rooted in heritage. Neza Bazi is a horseback game where riders use spears to pick up ground pegs; Gatka is a stick-fighting martial art. Sammi, a circular dance with rhythmic hand movements, is performed by men at weddings. Wedding customs include Dholki, Mehndi, Baraat, and Rukhsati. Local dishes range from Mothi/Pothi Chawal, Seekhan Tikkay, Makka Ni Roti, Lassi, Matha, Churi, Lassi La Sagg and Chatni.
The Jhelum River is where the Mirpuri hills meet the Pothohar Plateau, and the dialects of these areas are closely linked. Sometimes referred to as Pahari-Pothoharis, the term encompasses both the Pothohar Plateau and the Pir Panjal region as part of Greater Pahari-Pothohar.
Sadly, Pahari culture is now severely endangered, with no representation in cultural festivals, media, or the arts. Another concern is that Kashmiri, referring to Kashur speakers from the Valley, is often mistakenly used to label us Paharis, due to politics and misinformation. To my fellow Paharis, it’s time we reclaim our heritage properly and stop calling ourselves Kashmiri.
Arsalan Khan
