There are between 3,000 and 6,000 Kalash left in the world. They
live in a valley region in Pakistan's North-West Frontier
Province bordering Afghanistan. The land of the Kalash is known
as Kafiristan (literally "land of the infidel"). The valleys
which they inhabit are known for their beauty. The culture of
the Kalash is unique. The Kalash are polytheists who share
similarities to the Olympian gods of Greece. Sexes intermix and
the only hint at sexism is that women are isolated during their
periods and are then required to purify. While there are cases
of arranged marriages, men and women are free to purpose their
own intentions. Kalash live as subsistence farmers. There way of
life has been practically unchanged for hundreds of years. They
practice ancient traditions which are just now being documented.
Some Kalash have modernized and converted to Islam. While these
people wish to stay near their relations (family being a major
aspect of Kalash life) they are considered persona non grata.
The origins of the