Thumsling, the oldest and most deeply rooted festival of the Hunza region in Gilgit-Baltistan, was celebrated this year with the same enthusiasm, warmth, and communal spirit that has defined it for generations. Observed annually around the winter solstice, Thumsling marks a powerful moment in the cultural calendar of the people of Hunza. It signifies the end of the longest and darkest nights of winter and the gradual return of light, hope, and renewal. In the valleys and villages of Hunza Valley, the festival was welcomed with bonfires glowing against snow-covered mountains, prayers for prosperity, and heartfelt gatherings that brought together families, neighbors, and relatives from near and far.
From the early hours of the day, households were busy preparing for the occasion, cleaning homes, collecting firewood, and cooking traditional foods that are prepared only for this time of the year. As evening approached, people gathered outdoors to light the Thumsling fire, a central symbol of the festival that represents victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The flames rising into the cold winter air created a sense of unity, reminding everyone of their shared history and ancestral traditions that have survived centuries of change. Elders narrated folktales linked to Thumsling, including stories passed down orally about courage, survival, and the collective struggle of the community during harsh winters.
One of the most cherished aspects of Thumsling is its rich culinary tradition. Special dishes were prepared in almost every household, filling the villages with familiar and comforting aromas. Diram fitti, made from wheat flour and butter, was prepared with care and shared generously among family members and guests. Jewd dirm, another traditional winter dish, was also served, reflecting the simple yet nourishing food culture shaped by life in the mountains. Alongside these, dried fruits, apricot-based items, and local dairy products were enjoyed, symbolizing gratitude for stored harvests that help communities endure the long winter months. Sharing food during Thumsling is considered an act of blessing, strengthening bonds and ensuring that no one feels left out of the celebration.
Thumsling is not only about rituals and food but also about reconnecting with people. Many families used the occasion to visit relatives, especially elders, to seek prayers and exchange good wishes. Homes remained open throughout the day and night, welcoming guests with warmth and respect. Laughter, conversations, and shared memories filled the rooms as people reflected on the year gone by and expressed hopes for the coming one. For those living outside Hunza, Thumsling became a reason to return home, reconnect with their roots, and pass on traditions to the younger generation.
Despite modern influences and changing lifestyles, the people of Hunza continue to preserve Thumsling with pride and sincerity. This year’s celebration once again showed that the festival is not merely an event but a living expression of identity, resilience, and collective happiness. In a world moving rapidly toward modernity, Thumsling stands as a reminder of harmony with nature, respect for tradition, and the enduring strength of community life in Hunza.