Simam---Mohammad Zeb, the great Torwali singer is singing in background

Описание: The scenic and beautiful valley of upper Swat with snow packed peaks, azure lakes, lush green pastures, foggy waterfalls, zigzag streams and precious forests beyond Madyan is called Swat Kohistan. It is divided into six union councils with Bahrain as its sub-divisional headquarter. The population is approximately 0.2 millions.
Swat-Kohistan is home to cultures which are breathing their last mostly due to the negligence by the state. Here live two distinct communities with the names of Gawri and Torwali. These people are usually referred as Kohistanis but the term is generic one applied for those who live in the mountains. The people have their language and culture encompassing all the ingredients of a complete culture with their folklore, norms, traditions, festivities, rituals; and distinct ways of life. But unfortunately these straits are not only undocumented but also unexplored; and are likely to guests of few years if not taken serious.
After the insurgency and the worst floods 0f July 2010 in Swat particularly in Swat Kohistan, people were in a state of trauma. There was no source of entertainment for them. Swat Kohistan is mostly neglected by the government authorities. One purpose of celebrating Simam is to highlight our problems and issues to the concern authorities. Swat Kohistan has a very huge potential of tourism which needs to be fully exploited. One purpose of this event is to invite people to come to this area and see the beauty of the land and the hospitality of the people. We wanted to convey that we are peace loving people.
Above all the main purpose to celebrate Simam is to preserve and promote our culture, language and different ethnicity/identity.

Realizing the visible threats IBT started an advocacy campaign for the preservation, promotion and use of these cultures. Hence IBT launched a move to try the KP government; and to our pleasant surprise we found the culture, tourism and sports ministry the most supportive under its dynamic minister and secretary assisted with an equally active and efficient team. Being experienced and well aware of indigenous culture issues, IBT was fully confident to arrange Simam.