FLI Supports Poetry Gathering in Palula Community

The Forum for Language Initiatives (FLI) supported its partner organization, the Palula Community Welfare Organization (PCWO), in organizing a vibrant poetry gathering in Biori village of Lower Chitral on July 18.
The event brought together dozens of community members, including youth and elders, with more than a dozen poets expressing themselves in their native Palula language. FLI has long been committed to strengthening indigenous languages of the region by promoting oral arts such as poetry and singing, which resonate strongly with younger generations.
This gathering was part of FLI’s flagship Poetry Promotion Project, currently being implemented in Palula and Ormuri communities. In addition, FLI continues to support poetry in other languages through its Community-Led Cultural Event initiative, empowering local partners to revive and sustain poetic traditions.
The event was graced by the presence of German linguist Dr. Jakob, who is conducting research on Kateviri, an indigenous language spoken in the Kalash valleys of Chitral. FLI’s Executive Director also attended, underscoring the organization’s dedication to nurturing linguistic diversity.
Palula, spoken in southern Chitral, is among the literate languages of the region. Since poetry traditions took time to develop in the community, FLI has worked to accelerate their growth, ensuring that all domains of the language are utilized to strengthen its vitality.