Who Are the Gilgiti?
The Gilgiti are the multiethnic inhabitants of Gilgit, the administrative capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The term refers to people identifying with Gilgit as their home, regardless of ethnic background—primarily Shina speakers but also including Burusho (Hunza), Wakhi, Balti, and others. The population of the greater Gilgit area is approximately 200,000-300,000. Gilgit sits at the confluence of the Gilgit and Hunza rivers, where major valleys meet and ancient trade routes crossed. This crossroads position has made Gilgit a cultural melting pot, with diverse linguistic and religious communities coexisting in the region's administrative and commercial center.
Crossroads History
Gilgit's position at the junction of major trans-Asian routes gave it importance far exceeding its modest size. The ancient Silk Road passed through, connecting China to Central and South Asia. Travelers, pilgrims, and merchants left inscriptions on rocks along the routes. Buddhism flourished here for centuries—the region contains important Buddhist archaeological sites including Kargah Buddha. Islamic conquest came later than to most of South Asia. British strategic interest during the Great Game led to the Gilgit Agency. Partition in 1947 brought the region under Pakistani control (with disputes continuing with India). This layered history created a culturally diverse population.
Religious Diversity
Gilgit's population is religiously diverse, including Shia Muslims (the majority), Sunni Muslims, and Ismaili Muslims. This diversity has sometimes generated tensions; sectarian violence occurred in past decades. Nowruz (Persian New Year) celebrations reflect Iranian cultural connections. Shia religious observances, including Muharram processions, are significant. The Ismaili community, concentrated in nearby Hunza and the Ghizer District, follows the Aga Khan. This religious pluralism, while occasionally contentious, has also fostered traditions of coexistence. The Gilgiti identity transcends sectarian divisions—residents share regional identity even when religiously diverse.
Contemporary Gilgiti
Modern Gilgit is rapidly changing. The Karakoram Highway has connected this once-isolated valley to Pakistan and China. A new airport (Skardu also has one) has improved access. Construction of hydroelectric dams affects the regional economy. Tourism—trekking, mountaineering, cultural tourism—brings visitors and income. Political aspirations for full provincial status (rather than the current disputed territory status) animate local politics. Climate change threatens glacier-fed water supplies. Young Gilgitis increasingly seek education and employment outside the region. How this crossroads community navigates connectivity, political aspirations, and environmental challenges while preserving its diverse heritage shapes its dynamic future.
References
- Dani, A. H. (1989). History of Northern Areas of Pakistan
- Kreutzmann, H. (2006). \"The Karakoram Highway as a Lifeline for the Gilgit-Baltistan Region\"
- Søvik, M. B. (2014). Beyond the Great Game: Politics and Security in Gilgit-Baltistan