Hunza refers to both a region and a people located in the northern part of Pakistan. The Hunza Valley is a mountainous region in the Gilgit-Baltistan territory, bordering China’s Xinjiang region to the north and Afghanistan to the west. The area is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with towering mountains, glaciers, and the Hunza River flowing through the valley.
The people of Hunza, known as the Hunzakuts, are an ethnic group living in the region. They are primarily Ismaili Muslims and have their unique cultural practices and traditions. The Hunzakuts are often associated with longevity and good health, which has led to a fascination with their lifestyle and diet.
The region has gained attention for its inhabitants’ alleged longevity and good health. However, it’s important to note that the claims about the exceptional longevity of the Hunzakuts have been subject to debate and scientific scrutiny. Nonetheless, the Hunza Valley remains a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its stunning landscapes, traditional villages, and rich cultural heritage.
Traditional dance of Hunza
The traditional dance of Hunza is known as “Hunzai Dance” or “Hunza Dance.” It is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Hunzakuts. The dance is performed on special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and celebrations.
The Hunza Dance is characterized by rhythmic movements, footwork, and hand gestures. It is usually performed in a group, with dancers forming a circle or a line. The participants wear colorful traditional attire, which adds to the visual appeal of the dance.
The Hunzai Dance is a group dance, usually performed by men and women together. The dancers form a circle or a line, holding each other’s hands or shoulders. They move in coordinated steps and patterns, often accompanied by traditional music and drum beats. The dance movements often reflect the region’s everyday activities and natural elements. For example, dancers may imitate farming activities, harvest crops, or depict scenes from the mountainous landscape. The movements are often accompanied by traditional music played on instruments like the dhol (drum), surnai (flute), and rubab (a stringed instrument).
The dance involves graceful movements, with participants swaying, spinning, and stepping in sync with the rhythm of the music. The dancers wear vibrant traditional attire, including embroidered dresses for women and distinctive caps for men. The colorful costumes add to the visual appeal of the performance.
The Hunzai Dance is not only a form of entertainment but also a way to express the cultural identity and unity of the Hunzakuts. It showcases their joy, enthusiasm, and sense of community. The dance is also an opportunity for young men and women to interact and socialize in a festive atmosphere.
What to eat in Hunza?
The traditional diet of the Hunza people is often cited as one of the reasons for their reputed good health and longevity. However, it’s important to note that these claims have been subject to debate and scientific scrutiny. The Hunza diet primarily consists of natural, unprocessed foods and is centered around the following elements:
Whole Foods: The Hunzakuts’ diet primarily uses natural, unprocessed foods. This includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables form a significant part of their diet. The region’s fertile land allows for the cultivation of various products, including apricots, apples, cherries, peas, beans, potatoes, and leafy greens.
Raw and Dried Foods: The Hunzakuts traditionally consume a significant portion of their food in a raw or dried form. Raw fruits and vegetables, as well as dried fruits and nuts, are commonly eaten.
Whole Grains: Whole grains such as wheat, barley, and millet are staple foods in the Hunza diet. They are often consumed as flatbreads, porridges, or soups.
Dairy Products: Fresh dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and buttermilk are consumed in moderation. The Hunza region is known for its grazing lands, allowing for producing high-quality dairy products.
Limited Animal Protein: The traditional Hunza diet includes small amounts of animal protein, primarily in the form of meat from goats and occasionally wild game. However, it’s important to note that the consumption of animal protein is not as prevalent as plant-based foods in their diet.
Local Herbs and Honey: The Hunzakuts also incorporate local herbs, spices, and honey into their diet. These natural ingredients add flavor and are believed to have health benefits.
It’s worth mentioning that with changing times and increased connectivity, the Hunza diet has seen some modern influences, including the introduction of processed foods and a shift towards a more diverse range of dietary choices. Nonetheless, the traditional Hunza diet is still regarded as a plant-based, unprocessed diet rich in whole foods.
