Days in Khowar

Language is the primary medium of human communication - it provides a window into cultures, traditions, and the way of life of different societies. Today, we're taking a closer look at the Chitrali language, also known as Khowar. Khowar is a Dardic language spoken in Pakistan's Chitral district and many villages in Gilgit-Baltistan. One of the fascinating aspects of any language is how it names the days of the week. In this post, we will explore the days of the week in Khowar, shedding light on the cultural and linguistic intricacies of the language.

Monday: Dushambay

The week in Khowar begins with 'Dushambay', which translates to Monday. This day holds its importance as it marks the start of a new week. For many Khowar people, Monday is a day to set intentions for the rest of the week, a fresh start after the weekend.

Tuesday: Seshambay

Following Dushambay is 'Seshambay', Tuesday in Khowar. It's a day when the momentum of the week starts to pick up, as people delve further into their weekly routines.

Wednesday: Charshambay

The middle of the week is known as 'Charshambay', which translates to Wednesday. This day often serves as a turning point in the week, a time when people evaluate their progress and adjust their plans for the remaining days. The name 'Charshambay' is believed to come from the word for four, indicating its position as the fourth day after the weekend.

Thursday: Phachambay

Following Charshambay is 'Phachambay', or Thursday. This day is often associated with anticipation for the approaching weekend and the conclusion of the work or school week. The name 'Phachambay' is thought to be linked to the term for five, signifying its place as the fifth day after the weekend.

Friday: Adina

The week in Khowar culminates with 'Adina', which translates to Friday. 

Saturday: Shambay

The first day of the weekend in the Khowar language is called 'Shambay', which translates to Saturday. This day is often associated with relaxation and leisure time. It marks the beginning of the weekend, a time for rest, recreation, and spending time with loved ones.

Sunday: Yakshambay

The week concludes with 'Yakshambay', or Sunday. Sunday is typically a day of rest, an opportunity to recharge before the start of a new week.

The days of the week in Khowar, like in any other language, are more than just names - they carry the weight of cultural traditions, societal norms, and historical influences. So, the next time you learn a new language, remember you're not just learning words, but you're also gaining a deeper understanding of a different culture and way of life.