A summer camp offering courses for regional languages, including Wakhi and Balochi, for students will start here at the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) on Monday. The camp will also introduce the students aged 6-12 years belonging to various educational institutions of the twin cities with the cultural diversity of Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan where the two languages are spoken. The courses will continue till August 25.
The summer camps arranged by the Lok Virsa are a way to provide healthy entertainment, recreational opportunities and utilise the summer vacation of youngsters to learn about the rich cultural heritage of various areas said an official of Lok Virsa while talking to APP.
Earlier, the Lok Virsa professionals have documented the cultural heritage of upper border areas of Wakhan Corridor. It is nearly inaccessible a narrow corridor, located in the Pamir mountain region, with Tajikistan to the north and China to the east. This isolated valley is known for embroidered socks, sweaters, spinning wool, handmade shoes, and sheep coats. Buz Kashi (goat snatching, a traditional sport of Central Asia), and Yak polo are the favourite traditional games.
During the courses, the students will be briefed about the lifestyles, traditions, rituals, customs, people, folk games, handicrafts, food, etc of Wakhi and Balochi people.
"Pakistan is a land with unique ethnic diversity, specifically on the basis of language and it is the responsibility of the cultural institutions to promote the traditional heritage among the coming generations," the official said.