Shamanism in Pakistan

What it is

Shamanism in Pakistan refers to a specific set of spiritual practices found primarily in the Hunza region. It involves individuals known as Bitans in the Burushaski language, Dayals in Shina, or Kahins in Urdu. These figures act as intermediaries between the human world and the spirit realm. Unlike some other shamanic traditions that require physical anomalies, these practitioners are selected by supernatural beings called Pari. The practice focuses on entering altered states of consciousness to communicate with these entities and gain insight into future events or community needs.

Where it comes from

The tradition is deeply rooted in the history of the Hunza valley. Historians such as M.H. Sidky have documented its presence, noting famous Bitans like Huk Mamu and Shon Gakur. The selection process begins early in life, with Pari spirits choosing infants by smelling their noses and mouths during the spring blossom seasons. This belief system developed alongside the local culture, becoming an established part of the social and spiritual fabric of the region's communities.

How it is done

Rituals involve musicians playing instruments like the Dadang drum, Daamal drums, and Surnai pipes. The practitioner dances while inhaling smoke from burning juniper leaves and Syrian rue. In some cases, goat blood is consumed to deepen the trance. As the music intensifies, the Dayal enters an ecstatic state, often speaking in Shina to argue or converse with the Pari spirits. This process may repeat several times before the practitioner collapses from exhaustion.

Tools and materials

Key tools include musical instruments such as the Dadang, Daamal, Surnai, and Gabi. Smoke is generated using juniper leaves and Syrian rue, locally known as Supandur. Goat blood, taken from a recently sacrificed animal called Chati, is used in certain rituals. These elements combine to facilitate the transition into the trance state required for spiritual communication.

What it is for

Practitioners are believed to possess foresight gained through interaction with Pari spirits. They are summoned by local rulers, known as Thum or Mir, to predict disasters, famines, or other calamities. During festivals like Ginani, they also forecast crop yields. The primary goal is to provide guidance and warning to the community based on information received from the spirit world.

Who does it

Bitans and Dayals are ordinary people selected by Pari spirits rather than those born with physical traits. Selection occurs in infancy, but signs only appear during adolescence, including periods of unconsciousness or sickness. Resistance to this calling can be fatal. Practitioners undergo a transformation where they develop the ability to enter trances, often requiring them to consume goat blood at least once in their lifetime to fully embrace their role.

Peoples and places

The tradition is specific to the Hunza region in northern Pakistan. It is practiced by the Burusho people, who refer to shamans as Bitan, and Shina speakers, who call them Dayal. The Urdu term Kahin is also used. The practice is tied to the local geography and seasonal cycles, particularly the cherry and apricot blossoms when Pari spirits are said to descend. It remains a distinct regional variation of shamanism within the broader cultural landscape of Pakistan.

What people believe

The worldview centres on Pari, or fairies, who inhabit a realm called Paristan. These spirits choose humans to serve as intermediaries. During rituals, the practitioner's spirit is believed to travel to Paristan, where they may receive gifts like milk from the Pari. However, in the physical world, they consume goat blood. This duality allows them to access hidden knowledge and convey messages about the future to the living community.

When it is done

Events are linked to agricultural and seasonal cycles. Pari spirits descend during the cherry and apricot blossoming seasons. Rituals often coincide with the Ginani festival, which celebrates crop harvesting. Shamans were historically called upon during times of crisis or when leaders feared impending disasters, making the timing dependent on both natural cycles and community needs.

Questions people ask about Shamanism in Pakistan

Good reading and sources

• Shamanism in Pakistan on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data