Kataviri

The Kataviri (bsh) language also called Kati and Shekhani belongs to the Iranian group of languages in the Nooristani cluster. The locals in Chitral refer to the language as Bashgali-war, translated as the language of those who came from Bashgal. This language is dominantly spoken in Bashgal, Nooristan area, situated on Afghan side. The speakers of this language migrated to Chitral in late 1900s and settled in peripheral villages alongside Afghan border in Chitral; Shekhandeh, adjacent to Bamboret valley in Chitral. The speakers claim their total number to be around 10,000 in Chitral. This village is about 8 km from the border of Afghanistan. The title of Sheiks is used for those who convert to Islam in the area. Historically, the Kataviri speaking community used to be idol worshiper and obtained the tile of Sheikh after embracing Islam from the local population.  Literacy rate in the area is low, however the new generations have been provided with educational facilities by the government. The main source of income in the area is animal herding, agriculture and government sector. Private sector has not been given any focus and very few shops are found in the area. People go to Bamburet, Ayone or Chitral town for daily shopping. Private vehicles take commuters to the lower towns. The access road is rugged, narrow and rough.

Covid-19 Awareness Message in Kataviri

.

.

Kamviri

The Kamviri (xvi) has come from the said group of languages as Kati has. In Chitral no difference is recognized by non speakers who call both the communities Shakhani. The speakers of this language are found in Gobor village, situated on Afghan border from Lotkuh, adjacent to Durrah pass of Chitral valley. Both of the languages have been grouped as Shekhani because of having good similarities and also for the speakers who understand and use each others languages.