Located among the world’s highest mountain ranges the Himalayas, Hindu Kush, and Karakoram Gilgit-Baltistan is Pakistan’s northernmost region. This area is known for its cultural and linguistic diversity, shaped by its unique geography. The main languages spoken here include:
1. Shina:
Shina is the most widely spoken language in Gilgit-Baltistan, particularly in the districts of Gilgit, Diamer, and Astore and many other side areas. It belongs to the Dardic group of the Indo-Aryan branch of the Indo-European languages. Shina has several dialects, reflecting the cultural and geographic diversity of the region. Although it lacks a standardized script, efforts are underway to document and preserve this ancient language. Some of the famous singers of this language Shina are Salman Paris, Iftikhar, Jabir Khan Jabir, and Abdul Jafur Chilasi. This is the most widely spoken language in Gilgit-Baltistan. It ranks at the top.
2. Burushaski:
Burushaski has no known relationship to any other language family, making it a linguistic isolate. It is primarily spoken in parts of Gilgit, Nagar, and Hunza. The language has a rich oral tradition and a sophisticated grammar system. To preserve Burushaski for future generations, efforts are underway to create a written script for it. Some of the famous Singers are Shahid Akhkar Qalandary, Kashif Din, Islam Habib, and Azeem Hunzai. This is the second most spoken language in Gilgit-Baltistan and also in Hunza.
3. Balti:
Spoken mostly in Baltistan, which includes the districts of Skardu, Shigar, Kharmang, and Ghanche, Balti is a Tibetan language. Balti, which has Tibetan origins and was originally written in Tibetan script, is closely related to Ladakhi. These days, the Perso-Arabic script is frequently used to write it. Folk songs and epic tales are part of the rich poetic tradition that makes Balti famous.
4. Wakhi:
Wakhi is spoken by the Wakhi community, primarily in the upper regions of Hunza (Gojal), Ishkoman, and Yasin valleys. It is part of the Eastern Iranian branch of the Indo-European languages. The language has a vibrant oral literature, including songs and stories that reflect the culture and history of the Wakhi people. It is mostly spoken in Hunza District of Gilgit-Baltistan but mostly Burushaki is spoken there.
5. Urdu
Pakistan’s national language, Urdu, is a unifying factor in the linguistically diverse region of Gilgit-Baltistan. It facilitates communication between speakers of various native tongues, promoting cross-cultural dialogue and comprehension. Additionally, the region’s media, government, and educational systems all primarily use Urdu. Its rich literary heritage, which includes classical works, poetry, and prose, speaks to Gilgit-Baltistan’s citizens and unites local identities with the larger national culture. Urdu, a widely spoken and understood language, is essential to maintaining Gilgit-Baltistan’s unity despite its diversity. The entire Pakistanis spoke Urdu. It’s the national language.
