Kids stories by Nashmiya

A Long-Ago Custom in Hunza Once upon a time, in the beautiful valleys of Hunza , there was a curious tradition set by the king. Travelers who wanted to move from one region to another had to pay a small road tax, called “Rah Dari” in Urdu, or locally known as “Ladari.” Guards were stationed at the entry points to collect this tax. Back then, most people in Hunza didn’t carry coins. They grew crops, tended to sheep and cows, and used what they had for food. So, a child wanting to pass the Ladari checkpoint would find themselves in a tricky situation — how could they pay a penny when they didn’t have one? Meet Naino: The Mischievous Girl In one of the valleys lived a lively and mischievous little girl named Naino . Naino had a reputation for clever tricks and unusual antics . Her friends loved her, but they also knew that following her meant unexpected adventures — some hilarious, some daring. Among her friends was my grandmother, who had grown up alongside Naino. The two of the...

A Glimpse Into Old Hunza’s Childhood Games Long ago, in the rugged beauty of Hunza Valley, life moved to the rhythm of traditions, seasons, and stories that passed from one generation to another. During those times, Hunza followed a kingship system. The king would often ride out with his two bodyguards—one walking on each side—to observe village matters, meet the people, and watch cultural sports. Among the most popular traditional games of the region was Bulla , the local form of hockey. Children and adults alike played it using handmade wooden sticks called finchi , while a small wooden ball called tharii was smacked across open ground. Sometimes Bulla was even played on horseback, raising clouds of dust and laughter in the air. Within this colourful life lived my grandmother, a fearless, lively, and mischievous girl—lovingly called Naino . The Day of the Royal Play One sunny afternoon, all the children of my grandmother’s neighbourhood—boys and girls together—gathered for th...

A true story from my grandmother's childhood, retold for young readers. 🌾 Life in Old Hunza Long ago, in the beautiful valleys of Hunza , where tall mountains touch the sky and rivers sparkle under the sun, people lived a very simple life. Food was scarce, and every grain was precious. Those were times when there were no markets full of food like we have today. People depended on what they grew in their fields . Wheat was their main crop — it was harvested once a year and stored carefully for the whole season. My grandmother used to say that they had a special word for wheat in their language — “Dishaki.” It meant the main food grain that everyone relied on for making bread. There was also a special measuring bowl used to make one big piece of bread for men called “tie bread.” It was thick and heavy, meant to give them energy for hard fieldwork. Women often ate thinner bread made from wheat, maize, or barley because they saved the better portions for their families. Li...

Introduction: The Land of Legends and Courage In the breathtaking mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan , where snow-capped peaks meet timeless traditions, lies the ancient village of Hussainabad, Hunza . This valley is not only known for its beauty and bravery but also for the wisdom and courage of its people. Among the many stories passed down through generations, one tale stands out — the true story of Ustad Chocho , a wise musician whose intelligence and courage helped protect his land during a time of invasion. This story dates back to the era when the Sikh army attempted to capture the northern regions , unaware of the bravery and cleverness of the people of Hunza. It is a tale of quick thinking, unity, and the power of wisdom — a story that still echoes through the rocks of a place now known as Sikh Maras Zoong , meaning “the place where Sikhs were killed.” The Time of the Signal Fires In ancient Hunza, long before the age of phones or modern communication, people relied on a fasc...

  Introduction High in the ancient valleys of Hunza , where snow kisses the mountain peaks and the wind carries stories of old, there lies a small village named Hussainabad . In the earlier days, life was simple, homes were small, and communities were deeply connected. Winters were harsh and silent, nights were long, and the mountains were alive with sounds of nature. At that time, the village was not as settled as it is today. Wild animals roamed freely , especially at night, and every household relied on one another for safety and support. Among the villagers, one man stood out for his courage— Dawlasha , a man known for his bravery and strength. His neighbors would often feel at peace knowing he lived nearby; his presence alone was enough to give comfort during the dark winter nights. This is a true folk story passed down from elders, reflecting the strength, unity, and human warmth of old Hunza village life. Life in the Traditional Hunza Homes In the early times, the hom...

  Introduction In the heart of the majestic Gilgit Baltistan mountains , where nature breathes through the valleys and traditions echo through generations, live people deeply connected to the land and its secrets. Their remedies, stories, and beliefs often intertwine — forming a rich tapestry of wisdom and wonder. This is a true childhood story of my grandmother , a beautiful and courageous woman who grew up surrounded by nature’s magic. Her long, shining hair wasn’t just admired by everyone in the village — it also carried a mysterious tale, one that she lovingly shared with us every time we gathered around her during long winter nights. A Glimpse into the Past My grandmother was a graceful and strong woman , with long, thick hair that flowed down far beyond her height — like a river of silk. Even in her old age, her hair remained healthy and beautiful. As children, we often asked her the secret behind her amazing hair, and she would smile before narrating the fascinating st...

Introduction In the snowy valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan , where winters are long and nights are filled with stories, people once lived a life beautifully connected with nature and community. During the old days, before electricity reached the villages, families used to gather at night around a warm fire — a tradition called “Chale Ja Biyoki” , meaning sitting together around the firelight . They shared tales, laughed together, and enjoyed winter treats — dry apricots (fator) , apricot seeds (hani) , almonds (badam) , and walnuts (axho) — while the fire crackled on a special wood known as chalo . This is a true story from my grandmother’s childhood , one she often told us during long winter nights. 🔥 A Night of Gathering One winter evening, my grandmother, then a little girl, went to her aunt’s house. That night, her aunt’s family planned to join their neighbors for Chale Ja Biyoki . Everyone gathered and began walking toward the neighbor’s home. Her aunt told my grandmother to...