Dandoqa

Dandoqa, also known as Dandoka, is a village in the Swabi District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It is located at 34°10'50N 72°18'56E at an altitude of 319 metres (1049 feet). The villages of Tarakai, Yarhussain, Dagi and Sikandari lie to the north, west, east, and south. Its population is 4000 to 7000 (2007). The village has an arid climate, and the primary industry is agriculture.

Modern times

The people of Dandoka live a traditional rural life, dominated by Pakhtoon culture. Religious festivals like Eid ul Fitar, Eid ul Azhaa and Eid e Melaad are celebrated with religious zeal and passion. Other festivals and ceremonies like marriages, engagements, etc. are also celebrated with traditional pomp and show, complete with drumming traditional to this area.

Education is low as the majority of the peoples are poor and cannot afford the education expenses of their children. About 33% of the total village population is literate, although this is increasing. Agriculture is the primary industry in the area, and the major crops are wheat, tobacco, maize, sunflowers, rice sugar cane, mustard, potatoes and other vegetables. Many residents are affiliated with the Awami National Party.

Festivals

Religious festivals such as Eid ul Fitar, Eid ul Azhaa and Eid e Melaad, Ramadan Mubarak are celebrated with religious zeal and passion. Other festivals and ceremonies such as marriages or engagements are celebrated with traditional pomp and show.

Sports

Volleyball and cricket are the dominating games played in this village. Many young boys go on to play volleyball for various teams like Pakistan Army, etc. Elders like to play cards in their local gathering houses, "Hujra".