MALANA ~ THE LITTLE GREECE OF THE HIMALAYAS

Malana is an ancient village in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It's located 2,652 metres above sea level, greatly isolated from the rest of the world. Its people have created a culture of their own, preserving it with consistency.


Malana is thought to be one of the oldest democracies in the world, with a well organized parliamentary system. Malanis claim their origins from soldiers of Alexander the Great, who sought refuge on the isolated peaks and finally settled there-that is the reason why Malana is also called Little Greece. The architecture featured on the Malani homes and temples resembles the architecture of Greek villages.
Their language, Kanashi, does not have a similarity with any of the dialects of nearby communities- it is also not allowed to be used with outsiders, as it is considered sacred. 
The Malanis worship a deity called Jamlu Devta- his will is passed to the people through a council and his wishes are never questioned. 

This village is also well known for its strict taboos- strangers are not allowed to touch anything or anyone within Malana. If they do so, they pay a fine and are immediately expelled from the village.
Another essential part of their culture is festivals, which are celebrated throughout the year.