Fear not: this photographer will change your perception of tribal areas

What comes to the mind of a common Pakistani when they hear about the tribal areas of Pakistan is the complete opposite of what those areas stand for, and there is one guy with a mission to ensure that he breaks those taboos.

“Do not believe what you hear about us from those who have never even seen our areas once,”

BURKI

Jamshed Burki, a university student, found himself grappling with the prevailing negative perceptions and misconceptions about Waziristan, his hometown. It has long been unfairly characterized as conservative, inhospitable, and plagued by terrorism. Its arid and mountainous landscapes seemed ill-suited for leisurely visits. However, Burki embarked on a personal mission to share its raw beauty with the world.

HOW IT STARTED

Lacking opportunities at home due to poor attention of the state for decades towards the tribal areas, many leave at a young age to find work in Pakistani metropolitans or abroad, spending the best part of their lives away from loved ones. Burki realized this in 2018 and started creating videos that highlighted the breathtaking landscapes of Waziristan for those living outside.

Gradually, recognizing the potential of tourism, he envisioned that content like his could bring significant economic and social benefits to the region, apart from breaking negative stereotypes that surround it.

Over the years, Burki tirelessly traversed the tribal regions of Waziristan, meticulously capturing every corner of the region through his camera lens. He shared these captivating visuals on social media, where they garnered the attention of millions. His dedication paid off, and after a year of relentless effort, tourists started to make their way to Waziristan.

His content eventually became more inclusive as he started traversing the nooks and crannies of the tribal region and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His exploration continued in Tirrah Valley, Khyber District, where he immersed himself in the local attractions and markets. Orakzai District was next on the list, where he scaled mountains and visited various tourist spots. Parachinar, with its year-round snow-capped mountaintops, stood out as a unique destination. And Bajaur was explored with the same vigor, leaving no stone unturned.

HOW IT’S GOING

Burki’s content has inspired locals to generate more content showcasing the beauty of their areas, as well as those with a wanderlust to visit the areas that are still considered a pariah. However, the journey is far from over.

“I firmly believe that there is immense tourism potential in the province, which, if tapped into, could make Khyber Pakhtunkhwa an independent and thriving tourist destination in its own right,” he told HUM News English.

“I am not done with dispelling the negative stereotypes yet, crucial to revitalizing local businesses and generating employment opportunities in economically disadvantaged regions.”

For those considering a visit to tribal areas for the first time, Burki offers reassurance based on his experiences. He recommends engaging local guides to mitigate challenges and cooperating with local authorities for a smooth visit. He emphasizes the warm hospitality of the local population, assuring newcomers of a welcoming environment.

“Do not believe what you hear about us from those who have never even seen our areas once,” he says.

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