Poetry Gathering in Ashret Highlights Emerging Voices in Palula Literature

ASHRET, Lower Chitral: FLI supported a poetry gathering (Mushaira) which brought together literature enthusiasts and poets in Ashret, where 15 poets recited their poetry before a large audience. The event continued until 2:00 a.m., reflecting growing local interest in poetry and literary expression in the Palula language.

A notable feature of the gathering was the emergence of three new poets: Siddiq Zardan, Niaz Ahmad, and Ziauddin Zia, whose participation was warmly received by the audience. Their debut performances highlighted the growing interest of younger and previously unheard voices in Palula poetry.

The event was hosted at Palula House, the residence of Qazi Israruddin, and attracted poetry lovers from different villages of the valley. In addition to original poetry recitations, attendees enjoyed the presentation of a poem by renowned poet Riaz-ur-Rehman Riaz, which was recited in a captivating voice by another participant.

The Mushaira formed part of a broader effort by the Forum for Language Initiatives (FLI) to promote poetry in the Palula language. FLI launched a one year poetry promotion initiative at the beginning of the current year and has so far supported two poetry gatherings in the community. The initiative aims to help lay the foundation for a stronger tradition of poetry composition and recitation in Palula and to encourage new literary voices.

Palula, spoken by approximately 15,000 people in southern Chitral, is one of the region’s indigenous languages. Community-based literary activities such as poetry gatherings are increasingly being recognized as important platforms for strengthening language use, creativity, and cultural transmission among younger generations.

Participants and community members appreciated the event as a valuable opportunity to celebrate Palula language and literature while encouraging both established and emerging poets to share their work.