A different style in living, people of Himachal Pradesh

 Linguistically, the state has some distinctive features. There are as many dialects as there were princely states. Every ten to twelve miles the dialect changes and yet there is a uniformity which has persuaded linguists to group these dialects under the head of Western Pahari. It is quite distinct from Eastern Pahari, which spoken in Nepal, and Central Pahari, which is spoken in the Garwhal and Kumaon regions of Uttar Pradesh. Some of the better known dialects grouped under Western Pahari are Jaunsari, Sirmuri, Baghati, Kiunthali, Sutlej group, Kangri, Kulvi, mandeali, Chambeali and Bhadrawah group. While some of them have a great affinity to the languages spoken in the adjoining areas of Jammu, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, they are considered to have their origin in Sanskrit and Prakrit.

More important than the differences in dialects, however, it is the common theme of their folk’s songs and the similarity of folk dances and music. By nature the people of Himachal Pradesh are gay and like to indulge in community dancing and singing at every opportunity.

The proverbs of Himachal Pradesh convey an innate understanding of human Nature, as also a desire for self—preservation.

The stable diet of the people of Himachal Pradesh consists of maize, rice, beans and pulses like urad and koltha, yam and potato, wheat, when available, and milk products. Although fond of meat they cannot afford it except on festive occasions or in winter months.

Taking into account the roads in Kangra and other districts merged in Himachal Pradesh in 1966, there are now 11231 km of metal roads. Most of them are motor able and heavy trucks and buses ply regularly on them, carrying supplies and passengers.

The Hindustan –Tibet road, which was constructed by the British for strategic, reasons, there were hardly any roads worth the name. Even the old Hindustan –Tibet road was mere bridle path in the upper reaches. Walking was the only means of communication. Goods were transported by mules.