Lore-master Kazi Khosnawas sits under an old walnut tree and tells a story.
Eight generations ago, before the time of Shuragali, Kalasha women wore black beads from Peshawar, but now they favor red beads. Here is why.
Shuragali was staying in the bashali, the Women's House, because she was just about to give birth, but Tiliwari lurked outside, seeking to devour her. (Tiliwari, a cruel being in the shape of a man covered with hair, his mouth red with blood, preys upon pregnant and parturant women.) Shrewd Shuragali enticed him into the bashali and pushed him into the fire, where he burned to death. Ever since then Kalasha women have worn red beads in tribute to her courage and resourcefulness.
This is a local story, says lore-master Kazi Khosnawas. That's how we know it's true.
The Kalasha are the last remaining pagans of the Hindu Kush. Numbering about 4000, they live in three adjoining valleys in Northwestern Pakistan. They are known for their proudly polytheistic religion, their love of wine, and the freedom (and beauty) of their women.
Mytte Fentz, The Kalasha: Mountain People of the Hindu Kush (2010) Rhodos
http://www.rhodos.com/RHODOS2010/2010/forlag2010-mytte.html