Chamba: The People and Culture

Chamba is quite dynamic as far as it comes to culture. It is one city where you can see a shepherd with his herd standing next to a luxury motor showroom.

Religion and Language

The people of Chamba are known to guard their customs and traditions fiercely, even in today’s modern world. There are two main clans in the region, known as Gujjars and Gaddis. Gujjars follow Islam and are known to have migrated from the state of Kashmir. Gaddis follow Hinduism and are further divided into ethnic groups like the Brahmans, Rajputs, Thakkurs, Rathis and the Khatris. Since the residents are all immigrants who came to Chamba over the centuries, a variety of traditional costumes can be seen here. Most of the people practise livestock keeping and are also excellent craftsmen. 
Most of the inhabitants follow Hinduism but you can also find Sikhism, Buddhism and Christianity. The Muslim tribes from the central Asia have also moved to the higher mountain ranges in Chamba. Although the official language of the state is Hindi, the residents here use a Pahari dialect known as Chambiali or Chameali. However, this dialect is mostly confined to the city of Chamba and its adjoining area. Outside the city limits, people generally speak in other Pahari dialects.

Fair and Festivals

The people of Chamba celebrate different types of festivals. Among them the Minjar festival held in the month of Shravan (July-August) is most important. It is celebrated to commemorate the victory of Chamba over Trigarta and to ensure good crops. Besides, there is the Sui Mata festival, which is commemorates the sacrifice of Queen Sunayana, the wife of King Shahil Varman.