Kalkoti Poets & Students Push Their Language Forward

FLI supported its partner organization, the Kalkoti Community Welfare Organization (KCWO), in hosting the event “Kalkoti Poetry & Student Speeches 2026” last weekend in Kalkot, Upper Dir.

The program celebrated the Kalkoti language, local culture, and literary talent, while giving Kohistani youth a platform to express themselves.

Program Highlights
Student Speeches: Schoolchildren delivered speeches in their mother tongue on themes such as “My Kohistan” and “The Role of Education”. Their confidence and passion were warmly applauded.

Mushaira Session: Renowned and emerging poets recited verses on Kohistan, nature, peace, and sacrifice, receiving enthusiastic responses from the audience.

Scholarly Reflections: Religious scholars emphasized the role of literature (adab) in society, noting that poetry and speech are powerful tools for building positive communities.

Chief Guest & Closing
The ceremony was presided over by community notable Mr. Sharafud Din, who praised KCWO and FLI for their initiative. He remarked:
“Such literary events are the need of the hour to keep our new generation connected to their roots.”

Impact & Future
The Kalkoti Mushaira marked a successful step toward reviving literary traditions and strengthening cultural identity. KCWO reaffirmed its commitment to organizing more constructive and inspiring programs for the people of Kalkot.

The Kalkoti language, spoken by around 15,000 people in Dir Upper, has recently entered the literary domain. Community researchers and activists are vigorously promoting it. Last year, FLI implemented its first poetry promotion project in Kalkoti, sparking a tradition of poetic expression.

FLI appreciates the dedication of Kalkoti poets, researchers, and activists, and looks forward to seeing the language rise among the developed tongues of the region.