A holistic approach has helped strengthen the viability of astronomical practices in Pakistan

What was the need? 

With digital technology now handling tasks like timekeeping and weather prediction, the role of Suri Jagek has diminished, contributing to the decline of this traditional practice. Additionally, the natural observatories where Suri Jagek is traditionally practised (known as Suri Jagaekein) face threats from climate change, urbanization, and deforestation linked to timber exploitation. Moreover, the formalization of the education system and the absence of Suri Jagek, along with the Kalasha language and culture, from the curriculum have led to a decline in interest and appreciation of this living heritage among younger generations.

What approaches were implemented?

Education – In order to make Kalasha living heritage accessible to a wider audience in Pakistan, materials about Suri Jagek and other traditions were incorporated in Pakistan’s educational national curriculum in 2019. Likewise, Kalasha language learning is being planned in public primary schools in the Chitral valleys. In addition, groups were formed in each valley to transmit traditional knowledge to youth, and competitions were held under the mentorship of senior experts.

Indigenous media – To engage younger generations, Kalasha cultural promoters are using YouTube, animated stories, and other digital channels to enhance transmission and bridge the communication gap between elders and youth. For example, the Ishpata News channel produces and shares cultural content in the Kalasha language and attracts funding for educational and development projects.

Physical infrastructure – As the Suri Jagek practice is closely tied to physical sites, work has been undertaken to preserve and expand observatories (Suri Jagaekein) and community-owned spaces for religious and socio-cultural gatherings.

‘Suri Jagek (observing the sun), traditional meteorological and astronomical practice based on the observation of the sun, moon and stars in reference to the local topography’ was inscribed in 2018 on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.

How did it work?

The safeguarding plan that accompanied the inscription of Suri Jagek on UNESCO’s Urgent Safeguarding List, as well as the various Indigenous media initiatives, led to increased public awareness about the vulnerability of the Kalasha community’s living heritage. Multiple interventions by Kalasha organizations, NGOs and the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage have enhanced the viability of this living heritage element, partly due to an increase in the number of practitioners; The safeguarding plan has made it possible to begin the training of 45 men and 31 women in Suri Jagek, under the mentorship of senior experts.

How was the community involved?

Community experts and NGOs with knowledge of Kalasha culture and language collaborated with non-Kalasha experts to prepare school textbooks, following the inclusion of Kalasha culture in the national curriculum.

Awareness raising sessions at federal and provincial level were conducted by the Kalasha people. In addition, the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) and the National Heritage and Culture Division facilitated the identification of Suri Jagek experts and new learners from the Kalasha community.

To preserve traditional infrastructure related to Suri Jagek, Kalasha communal groups were formed to prepare a safeguarding plan with the Lok Virsa research team.

• Book ‘Celebrating the Living Heritage of Indigenous Peoples’

Other links

• Suri Jagek (observing the sun), traditional meteorological and astronomical practice based on the observation of the sun, moon and stars in reference to the local topography
• 2023 report by the State Party on the current status of the element: inglés
• Ishpata News channel