Culture of India

Indian culture belong to different states of country and the culture of India is the way of life of the people of India. India's languages, religions, dance, music, architecture, food, and customs differ from place to place within the country. The Indian culture, often labeled as an amalgamation of several cultures, spans across the Indian subcontinent and has been influenced by a history that is several millennia old. Many elements of India's diverse cultures, such as Indian religions, yoga and Indian cuisine, have had a profound impact across the world. India’s culture is among the world's oldest; civilization in India began about 4,500 years ago. Many sources describe it as, Sa Prathama Sanskrati Vishvavara,  the first and the supreme culture in the world, according to the All World Gayatri Pariwar, AWGP, organization. The South, North, and Northeast have their own distinct cultures and almost every state has carved out its own cultural niche. There is hardly any culture in the world that is as varied and unique as India. India is a vast country, having variety of geographical features and climatic conditions. India is home to some of the most ancient civilizations and  the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, collectively known as Indian religionsIndian religions are a major form of world religions along with Abrahamic ones. Today, Hinduism and Buddhism are the world's third and fourth-largest religions respectively, with over 2 billion followers altogether, and possibly as many as 2.5 or 2.6 billion followers. India is one of the most religiously diverse nations in the world, with some of the most deeply religious societies and cultures. Religion plays a central and definitive role in the life of many of its people. According to a 2001 census of India, the religion of 80% of the people is Hinduism. Islam is practised by around 13% of all Indians.The country had over 23 million Christians, over 19 million Sikhs, about 8 million Buddhists and about 4 million Jains. Early anthropologists once considered culture as an evolutionary process, and every aspect of human development was seen as driven by evolution, she told Live Science. In this view, societies outside of Europe or North America, or societies that did not follow the European or Western way of life, were considered primitive and culturally inferior.  Essentially this included all the colonized countries and people, such as African countries, India, and the Far East. For generations, India has had a prevailing tradition of the joint family system. It is a system under which extended members of a family – parents, children, the children's spouses and their offspring, etc,  live together. Usually, the oldest male member is the head in the joint Indian family system. He makes all important decisions and rules, and other family members abide by them. Weddings are festive occasions in India with extensive decorations, colors, music, dance, costumes and rituals that depend on the religion of the bride and the groom, as well as their preferences. The nation celebrates about 10 million weddings per year, of which over 80% are Hindu weddings.  A combination of these factors has resulted into an exclusive culture of Indian culture. Indian culture is a composite mixture of varying styles and influences. In the matter of cuisine, for instance, the North and the South are totally different. Festivals in India are characterized by color, gaiety, enthusiasm, prayers and rituals. In the realm of music, there are varieties of folk, popular, pop, and classical music. The classical tradition music in India includes the Carnatic and the Hindustani music. The Hindustani music tradition diverged from Carnatic music around the 13^th  to 14th centuries . The practice of singing based on notes was popular even from the Vedic times where the hymns in Sama Veda, an ancient religious text, were sung as Samagana and not chanted. Developing a strong and diverse tradition over several centuries, it has contemporary traditions established primarily in India but also in Pakistan and Bangladesh. In contrast to Carnatic music, the other main Indian classical music tradition originating from the South, Hindustani music was not only influenced by ancient Hindu musical traditions, historical Vedic philosophy and native Indian sounds but also enriched by the Persian performance practices of the Mughals. Classical genres are dhrupad, dhamar, khyal, tarana and sadra, and there are also several semi-classical forms. The two main traditions of classical music are Carnatic music, found predominantly in the peninsular regions, and Hindustani music, found in the northern, eastern and central regions. The basic concepts of this music and the present form of Carnatic music is based on historical developments that can be traced to the 15th - 16th centuries AD and thereafter. Light classical or semi-classical music include the following genres, among others: Thumri, Dadra, ghazal, Chaiti, Kajri , Tappa and Qawwali. India is a land of cultural diversities. Every region in India has its own form of folk music. This rich tradition of folk music is very much alive in not just rural India, but also in some metros. Though one may say that music has acquired a totally different definition with the arrival of pop culture and new age cinema, there are many who would beg to differ and Indian classical dances are performed inside the sanctum of the temple according to the rituals called Agama Nartanam. Natya Shastra classifies this type of dance form as margi, or a soul-liberating dance. Dances performed in royal courts to the accompaniment of classical music are called Carnatakam. A Hindu deity is considered a revered royal guest in his temple, and should be offered all of the sixteen hospitalities, among which are music and dance. The sixteen hospitalities, please the senses. The numerous and varied festivals that are held throughout the year offer a unique way of seeing Indian culture at its best. The following popular festivals in India will provide you with a truly memorable experience and  India, being a multi-cultural and multi-religious society, celebrates holidays and festivals of various religions. Diwali is a five day festival that represents the start of the Hindu New Year. It's known as the, Festival of Lights, for all the fireworks, small clay lamps, and candles that are lit during the celebrations. These lights are said to represent the victory of good over evil, and brightness over darkness. The candlelight makes Diwali a very warm and atmospheric festival, and it's observed with much joy and happiness. Indian New year festival are celebrated in different part of India with unique style in different times. Ugadi, Bihu, Gudhi Padwa, Puthandu, Vishu and Vishuva Sankranti are the New years festival of different part of India. Holi is a two day festival that also celebrates the victory of good over evil, as well as the abundance of the spring harvest season. It's commonly referred to as the, Festival of Colors. People exuberantly throw colored powder and water all over each other, have parties, and dance under water sprinklers. Bhang  is also traditionally consumed during the celebrations. Holi is a very carefree festival that's great fun to participate in if you don’t mind getting wet and dirty. Onam is a traditional ten day harvest festival that marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. It’s a festival rich in culture and heritage. The south Indian state of Kerala is filled with temples that are renowned for their exotic temple festivals. The large processions of elephants, resplendent in ornaments, are the main attractions of these festivals. The processions are accompanied by colorful floats, drummers and other musicians. Clothing in India varies from region to region depending on the ethnicity, geography, climate and cultural traditions of the people of that region. Historically, men and women clothing has evolved from simple Langotas, and loincloths to cover the body to elaborate costumes not only used in daily wear but also on festive occasions as well as rituals and dance performances. In urban areas, western clothing is common and uniformly worn by people of all strata.  In India, woman's clothing varies widely and is closely associated with the local culture, religion and climate and A saree or sari is a female garment in the Indian subcontinent.  A sari is a strip of unstitched cloth, ranging from four to nine meters in length,  that is draped over the body in various styles, a Ghagra Choli or a Lehenga Choli is the traditional clothing of women in Rajasthan and Gujarat.[citation needed] Punjabis also wear them and they are used in some of their folk dances. It is a combination of lehenga, a tight choli and an odhani. A lehenga is a form of a long skirt which is pleated. It is usually embroidered or has a thick border at the bottom and Salwar is a generic description of the lower garment incorporating the Sindhi suthan, Dogri pajamma and the Kashmiri suthan. The Salwar kameez is the traditional wear of women in Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. The suthan, similar to the salwar is common in Sindh and Kashmir,  and some other dresses also weard in India. Indian food is different from rest of the world not only in taste but also in cooking methods. It reflects a perfect blend of various cultures and ages. Just like Indian culture, food in India has also been influenced by various civilizations, which have contributed their share in its overall development and the present form.  Here are names of some Indian dishes  Aloo baingan, Aloo ki Tikki, Aloo Matar, Aloo methi, Aloo shimla mirch, Baigan bharta, Biryani, Butter Chicken, Chaat, Chapathi, Dal fry with tadka, Gajar ka Halwa, Kheer, Kofta and some more dishes known throughout in India and Indian culture is very rich and colorful.

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Culture of Australia

Culture of Australia is very rich and combination of multi-cultures and The culture of Australia is essentially a Western culture influenced by the unique geography of the Australian continent, the diverse input of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the British colonisation of Australia that began in 1788, and the various waves of multi-ethnic migration that followed. The predominance of the English language, the existence of a democratic system of government drawing upon the British traditions of Westminster Government, Parliamentarianism and constitutional monarchy, American constitutionalist and federalist traditions, Christianity as the dominant religion, and the popularity of sports originating in the British Isles, are all evidence of a significant Anglo Celtic heritage. Australian culture has diverged significantly since British settlement in 1788. Australians are very down to earth and always mindful of not giving the impression that they think they are better than anyone else. They value authenticity, sincerity, and loathe pretentiousness. Australians prefer people who are modest, humble, self- deprecating and with a sense of humour. They do not draw attention to their academic or other achievements and tend to distrust people who do. They often downplay their own success, which may make them appear not to be achievement-oriented. The initial population of Australia was made up of Aborigines and people of British and Irish descent. After World War II there was heavy migration from Europe, especially from Greece, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Yugoslavia, Lebanon, and Turkey. This was in response to the Australian policy of proactively trying to attract immigrants to boost the population and work force. In the last thirty years, Australia has liberalised its immigration policy and opened its borders to South East Asia. This has caused a real shift in self-perception as Aussies begin to re-define themselves as a multi-cultural and multi-faith society rather then the old homogenous, white, Anglo- Saxon, Protestant nation. Australia Day Live is a concert on the grounds of Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, hosted each year on 25 January. The concert, first launched in 2004, features music from Australian artists and musicians. Australia Day Live is preceded by the Australian of the Year Awards. The name of the concert was changed in 2012 to Australia Celebrates Live. Australia Celebrates Live is a free concert held on the lawns of Parliament House in Canberra every Australia Day eve (25 January). It features a line-up of Australian acts. On the afternoon of the concert people arrive at the venue and settle in to have some fun with family and friends. Once the Awards ceremony is complete, the concert continues with each artist performing a full set of music. Australia’s Indigenous people celebrate and share their culture at many colourful traditional and contemporary festivals throughout the year. Visit a remote Gove Peninsula community at the Garma Festival or travel back to the Dreamtime at Walking with Spirits. Head to Cape York Peninsula for the Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival. Browse a diverse range of Aboriginal art at the Darwin or Cairns Aboriginal Art Fairs. Enjoy everything from concerts to comedy at Saltwater Freshwater Festival on the New South Wales North Coast. Catch a performance of Bangarra Dance Theatre, Australia’s leading Indigenous performing arts company as it tours city and regional venues across Australia. The Adelaide Festival of Arts has created a strong tradition of innovation since 1960, inspiring, challenging and entertaining artists and performers across theatre, dance, music, visual arts, literature and more. Held in the warm South Australian autumn every year, this vital and prestigious celebration of art from around the globe has defined South Australia as the nation’s premier festival state. Yabun is the largest single day Indigenous festival in Australia, drawing an audience of between 10,000 and 15,000 people on Australia Day. It is one of the most important Indigenous music events in the country reflecting the wealth of Indigenous creative talent. Some of Australia's best Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music from around the country is featured, from well established artists to those just emerging on the scene. Yabun also delivers a current and informative cultural program, with discussions and speeches by some of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community's most recognised leaders, academics, politicians and artists. Melbourne International Arts Festival has a reputation for presenting unique international and Australian events in the fields of dance, theatre, music, visual arts, multimedia, and free and outdoor events over 17 days each October. First staged in 1986 under the direction of composer Gian Carlo Menotti, it became the third in the Spoleto Festival series – joining Spoleto, Italy, and Charleston, United States. Melbourne's Spoleto Festival changed its name to the Melbourne International Festival of the Arts in 1990. In 2003, the festival was renamed Melbourne International Arts Festival. The music of Australia has an extensive history stretching back to the Indigenous and colonial societies. Indigenous Australian music is a part of the unique heritage of a 40,000 to 60,000 year history which produced the iconic didgeridoo. Contemporary fusions of Indigenous and Western styles, exemplified in the works of No Fixed Address, Yothu Yindi, Christine Anu and Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, mark distinctly Australian contributions to world music. During its early western history, Australia was a collection of British colonies, and Australian folk music and bush ballads such as Waltzing Matilda were heavily influenced by Anglo Celtic traditions, while classical forms were derived from those of Europe. Contemporary Australian music ranges across a broad spectrum with trends often concurrent with those of the US, the UK, and similar nations notably in the Australian rock and Australian country music genres. Tastes have diversified along with post-World War II multicultural immigration to Australia. The music of Australia has played a major role in the development of our nation. Defining an 'Australian musical sound' is about recognition of rhythmic patterns derived from our environment and a sense of place, as well as the Indigenous and the culturally diverse aspects of Australian life. Indigenous music in Australia uses the environment itself to generate unique sounds and rhythms. In addition, traditional influences from a largely migrant population have contributed significantly to the definition of Australian music. Australia's classical musicians and teachers are world standard. Violinist and viola player Barbara Jane Gilby spent fifteen years as Concertmaster of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra after earlier participation in a variety of ensembles including the Wurttemberg Chamber Orchestra and North German Radio Orchestra, Hannover. Elizabeth Wallfisch, an orchestra director as well as soloist, and chamber musician, returned to Australia in 2004-05 to direct concerts from the violin with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and the Queensland Orchestra after twenty years experience of directing orchestras all over the world. Australian jazz musicians, like Don Burrows and James Morrison, continue to attract significant audience support. Innovation is an integral component to jazz and it is represented in the work of artists like alto saxophonists Berne McGann, pianist Mike Nock and saxophonist Dale Barlow - all achievers on the world stage. The history of jazz and related genres in Australia extends back into the 19th century. During the gold rush locally formed, blackface, white actor musicians in blackface, minstrel troupes began to tour Australia, touring not only the capital cities but also many of the booming regional towns like Ballarat and Bendigo. Minstrel orchestra music featurics including improvisatory embellishment and polyrhythm in the banjo playing and clever percussion breaks. Some genuine African-American minstrel and jubilee singing troupes toured from the 1870s. A more jazz like form of minstrelsy reached Australia in the late 1890s in the form of improvisatory and syncopated coon song and cake-walk music, two early forms of ragtime. Australia has no official language, it is largely monolingual with English being the de facto national language. Australian English has a distinctive accent and vocabulary. According to the 2011 census, 76.8% of people spoke only English at home. Other languages spoken at home included Mandarin 1.6%, Italian 1.4%, Arabic 1.3%, Cantonese 1.2% and Greek 1.2%. While English is the dominant language in Australia, many people speak a language other than English within their families and communities. This linguistic diversity is an asset for Australia and makes us more competitive in trade as well as fostering international ties and cultural exchange. Australian English probably originated as a combination of British regional dialects used by groups of convicts and others who came to the colonies. Australian English is different from British and American English but does not vary much regionally  While Australia has no single uniform national costume, an Australian national dress style, based on specific local dress styles, has emerged in response to climate, lifestyle and identity. This is reflected in the modern design of dress by emerging and established designers which incorporate particular defining elements. Australian is multi-cultural nation that live together in peace and love. Australia progresses by leaps and bounds.

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Saraiki Culture of Pakistan

The Saraikis are very peaceful and beautiful people and also known as Multani people, are ethnically Aryan race, a group or an amalgamation of the Punjabi people and long established Pashtun people in the region with some distinct cultural adaptions, due to proximity to Sindh and Balochistan, and linguistically speak the Saraiki. Saraiki culture is the culture of the Saraiki people, residing in Pakistan and outside Pakistan.  Since the name of the Saraiki came into being after the creation of Pakistan, so much of the literature in this language is pretty recent. Saraiki language was standardized in the 1960s so no written Saraiki literature existed before that. The recent Saraiki is famous for its Sufi poetry. Different arts and crafts flourished in the urban areas of Multan and Bahawalpur among which music and dance are important cultural elements and are part of most of the celebrations and ceremonies. Jhoomar is the traditional Saraiki folk dance that originated from Multan and Balochistan. It is a lively form of music and dance and it is slow and rhythmic. The word ,Jhoomar, comes from jhoom, which means swaying. The songs evoke a quality reminiscent of swaying. The content of these songs is varied; they are usually love with emotional songs, too. The Jhoomar is a dance of ecstasy. Jhoomar is performed usually at the wedding ceremonies. It is a living demonstration of the happiness. The dance is mostly performed by the Balochi and Saraiki people of Southern Punjab. This region has produced a number of talented people in the music industry. Songs in Saraiki mostly revolve around the beauty of the desert and famous singers of this region include Attaullah Khan Essa Khailwi, Pathanay Khan, Abida Parveen, Mansoor Malangi, Nadeem Abbas, Shazia Khushk, Talib Hussain Dard, Nadeem lonay wala.  Most of the festivals are based on Islamic calendar and the events held for the remembrance of Sufi Saints and to commemorate the Muslim traditions in the region. Some of the festivals include Eid ul Fiter, Eid ul Azha, Sangh Mela is a Vaisakhi fair celebrated during March and April in Sakhi Sarwar by people coming from Jhang and Faisalabad. It is celebrated especially at the time of wheat harvesting and it is also known as Basant in some areas. Pir Adil Mela is celebrated at the shrine of Hazrat Pir Adil and national horse and cattle show is also sometimes merged with this mela. It is usually celebrated in February every year for ten days. People usually wear Shalwar kameez, which is the national dress of Pakistan. The traditional male dress is Lungi with Chola. Chadar is also an important part of male and female dress. Women wear bochanrr and men wear Patka on the head. Women also used to wear ghagra but it is not used only for wedding and parties. Saraiki Language is very sweet and beautiful.

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Culture of Gilgit Baltistan

It is the fact that Gilgit Baltistan is area of adventurism and a very old culture. Hence, the culture of this people is rather unique and originates somewhere in extreme antiquity. Gilgit Baltistan have managed to protect the traditions and customs of people who are the basis of the cultural life of the nation. The famous trio band music is played in this region as in most of the other regions. On the rhythm of this loud music, men love to dance in their typical way and . The poetry varies region to region but musical instruments are same. Hareep, khiling boo.chang, Porgho-too are some locally famous music instruments while Dadang, drum, Damal, Sitar, Gabi, Rabab and Surnai are also used in various festivals of Gilgit Baltistan.There are some variations in lyrics from region to region. Because of the multicultural and multi lingual aspects: people also have a beautiful mix of lifestyles and attitudes. These range from the typical people tending to preserve the traditions and culture to the modern people somehow influenced by other cultures, media and education. That makes a pluralistic society having a range of people with various backgrounds and living together with peace and tranquility. There are mainly two types of festivals i.e. religious and cultural. Religious festivals include: Eid-e-Ghadir, Edi-ul-Fitr and Eid Miladul Nabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad Peace be upon Him. There are some other important events specific to different communities of interpretation which are celebrated with complete peace and fraternity and the culture of Gilgit Baltistan is very rich and beautiful.

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The Culture of Kashmir

Cultur of Kashmir is Multi-dimensional and Attractive

Kashmir, is a land of fabled beauty and eternal romance, blessed by nature with breath taking scenery and a glorious climate. The Kashmir valley, a fertile well watered spot, surrounded by high mountains has been described with justification as a, heaven on earth, a produce rich oasis an area not noted for its abundance. Cultural heritage of Kashmir is as multi dimensional as the variegated backdrop of its physical exuberance which has nursed and inspired it all along.The culture of in Kashmir in Pakistan bears many similarities and resemblances to Northern Punjab,Potohari, culture in Punjab province. Many natives of Pakistani Kashmir speak Potwari and the Pahari languages, which are dialects of the larger Punjabi language. The culture of Kashmir refers to the culture and traditions of Kashmir, a region in northern India, consisting of Jammu and Kashmir, northeast Pakistan, consisting of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan, and the Chinese territory of Aksai Chin. 

The most important part of the cultural identity of the Kashmiri people is the Kashmiri, Koshur, language. This language is spoken only in the Valley of Kashmir by the Kashmiri Pandits and Kashmiri Muslims. Language is the mode of communication used in any area. Urdu, Kashmiri and gojri are the official languages of Azad, Jammu and Kashmir whereas, Hindi, Pahari and Ladakhi, Dograi, Kashmiri,  are also spoken in some parts. Northwestern Dardic language of the Indo Aryan branch of the Indo Iranian subfamily of the Indo European language family is primarily utilized in Jammu Kashmir whereas language used in Azad Kashmir is Pahari because this part of Kashmir normally contains mountains and hilly areas. Furthermore, variation in language is found when we travel in different areas of Kashmir the accent, pronunciation, and at times meanings varies from area to area. The arabic script is followed as their writing script. Kashmiri cuisines include a variety of meat based dishes like Rogan Josh, a lamb dish. Wazwan is a multi-course dish which is served on occasions like weddings. and culture has been greatly influenced by Central Asian and Persian cultures for both communities. 

The folk dances of Jammu include the, Kud, a ritual dance in honour of local deities, the, Heren, a genre of folk theatre, the 'Fumenie' and 'Jagarana' sung by women at weddings, and ballads of Gwatri and Karak. The hill region of Kashmir has a rich tradition of music deeply influenced by Sufism. The, Hafiz Nagma, is a genre of Sufi music performed by a female dancer along with musicians playing the saz, santoor, tabla and sitar while the 'Bhand Pather' is the popular folk theatre that usually features plays with satirical themes. The saz, santoor, sarangi, rabab and garaha are musical instruments indigenous to Jammu and Kashmir and accompany, Chakri, folk singers and cultural music and dance like Wanvun, Rouf, carpet or shawl weaving and Koshur Sufiana forms a very important part of kashmiri identity. It is important to emphasize that Kashmiri culture is predominantly only in the Valley of Kashmir. Other regions of the Larger Jammu and Kashmir state, such as Jammu and Ladakh are very different from Kashmir. Culture of Ladakh is well known for its unique Indo-Tibetan culture. Chanting in Sanskrit and Tibetan language is an integral part of Ladakh's Buddhist lifestyle.

Annual masked dance festivals, weaving and archery are an important component of traditional life in Ladakh. Jammu's Dogra culture and tradition are very different from the Kashmiri culture. The Dogra culture is instead much similar to that of neighbouring Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Traditional Punjabi festivals such as Lohri and Vaisakhi are celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout the region, along with Accession Day, an annual holiday which commemorates the accession of Jammu & Kashmir to the Dominion of India. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are known for their warmth and hospitality. They are simple, hospitable people and being invited to a village wedding or into somebody’s house for a hot cup of tea is not surprising. The culture of Kashmir is a diverse blend and highly influenced by northern South Asian as well as Central Asian culture. Along with its scenic beauty, Kashmir is famous for its cultural heritage; it amalgamates the Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist philosophies and has involved composite culture based on the values of humanism and tolerance which is collectively known as Kashmiriyat.

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Culture of Province of Sindh

Sindhi Culture has its Roots in Old Indus Civilization 

Sindh is a repository of varied cultural values and has remained the seat of civilization and meeting point of diverse cultures from times immemorial.Culture of Sindh has its roots in the Indus Valley Civilization. Sindh has been shaped by the geography of the largely desert region, the natural resources it had available and the continuous foreign influences. Indus or Sindhu River that passes through the land and the Arabian Sea, that defines its borders, also supported the seafaring traditions among the local people. Depending on population, Sindh is the second largest province of Pakistan. Karachi port and Arabian Sea are the possessions of the Sindh. Sindh has a different language, traditions, folklore, customs and lifestyle from rest of the country. The regional climate also reflects why the Sindhi have the language, folklore, traditions, customs and lifestyle that are so different from the neighbouring regions.Sindhi culture is also practiced by the Sindhi diaspora. Sindhi culture is the fusion of various cultures. Sindh is ruled by various dynasties such as the Arabs. Mughals also ruled on a major part of the sub continent, then Arghuns came and ruled. Soomras and Kalhoras are also in the list of the rulers. Therefore, the people of Sindh after Independence on August 14, 1947 developed their own exclusive artistic culture and traditions. 

Sindhi language is the oldest language of Pakistan. Sindhi language used to be spoken in the southern part of sub continent. People of Sindh are more inclined towards an agricultural based lifestyle. The fertile Indus Plains provide a valuable source of income for the local people who practice farming on these lands. Inland fishing is also practiced along the Indus River in Upper Sind providing further opportunities for indigenous people. Itinerant way of lifestyle is commonly seen in the deserted regions of Thar where people move from place to place in search for drinking water sources along with their animals. The roots of Sindhi culture and civilization date back to the distant past. Archaeological researches during 19th and 20th centuries showed the roots of social life, religion and culture of the people of the Sindh, their agricultural practices, traditional arts and crafts, customs and tradition and other parts of social life, going back to a ripe and mature Indus Valley Civilization of the third millennium BC. Recent researches have traced the Indus valley civilization to even earlier ancestry. Sindhi poetry is also prominent in Sindhi culture. Poetry of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Sachal Sarmast is very famous amongst all of Pakistanis. Regional poets are Shaikh Ayaz, Ustaad Bhukhari, Ahmed Khan, Madhoosh, Adal Soomro, Ayaz Gul, Abdul Ghaffar Tabasum, G.N.Qureshi, Rukhsana Preet, Waseem Soomro. Many Sindhi poets are doing their poetry work continuously. 

The culture of Sindh is very rich and Sindhi people are very simple and their lifestyle is also very simple. Ajrak and Sindhi Topi are the symbols of Sindhi culture and civilization for thousands of years. Ajrak, basically, is a name given to unique block print shawls. Sindhi culture displays special designs and pattern in these shawls. Mostly, red, black and yellow colors are used while making these shawls. Sindh has a rich heritage of traditional handicraft that has evolved over the centuries. Perhaps the most professed exposition of Sindhi culture is in the handicrafts of Hala, a town some 30 kilometres from Hyderabad. Hala’s artisans manufacture high-quality and impressively priced wooden handicrafts, textiles, paintings, handmade paper products, and blue pottery. Lacquered wood works are known as Jandi, painting on wood, tiles, and pottery known as Kashi, hand woven textiles including khadi, susi, and ajraks are synonymous with Sindhi culture preserved in Hala’s handicraftt. Sindhi language is an ancient language spoken in Pakistan and many other parts of the world. It is just an Indo-Aryan language spoken by approximately 41 million people in Pakistan, and 12 million people in India; it is the second most spoken language of Pakistan, mostly spoken in the Sindh province. 

It is a recognized official language in Pakistan, and also an official language in India. Government of Pakistan issues National Identity Cards to its citizens only in two languages Sindhi and Urdu. Sindhi language is also strongly influenced by Sanskrit and about 70% of the words in Sindhi are of Sanskrit origin. Sindhi is a very rich language with a vast vocabulary; this has made it a favorite of many writers and so a lot of literature and poetry has been developed in Sindhi. It has become the inspiration for Sindhi art, music, literature, culture and the way of life. Sindhi music has its own unique quality. It is performed in many different ways. Sufi music is performed at shrines, and other simple music is performed at studios and gatherings The language can be written using the Devanagri or Arabic script. There are numerous traditional sports which are very famous in Sindh. Malakhro is one of the most famous games in Sindh. KodiKodi, Wanjh wati, Notinn, Thipai Rand, Beelarhoo and Biloor are some other famous games.

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Culture of Province Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Lifestyle of Pakhtun People is Full Tradition and Handicraft 

The Pakhtoon Khwah is the land of Pakhtoon or Pathans as called by the English and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is the north western province of Pakistan and The people in this province is placed in a strict tribal system. Pashtun culture is based on Pashtun wali, which is an ancient way of life, as well as speaking of the Pashto language and wearing Pashtun dress. The culture of the Pashtun people is highlighted since at least the time of Herodotus 425 to 484 BC or Alexander the Great, when he explored the Afghanistan and Pakistan region in 330 BC. Over the different periods in history, the Pashtun culture has been affected by the people of South and Western Asia to a certain degree. For example, just like with most other cultures in the area, it has been fully Islamised by Arabs during the Caliphate period. Pashtun men usually wear salwar kameez with a turban or a pakul hat. In the Kandahar region young men usually wear different color topi and in the Peshawar region they wear white kufis instead. 

Leaders or tribal chiefs sometimes wear a karakul hat and Pashtun people are very hard operating and brave. The history and the origins of Pathans have been a controversial debate however not much of a consensus could be formed. There were theories ranging from Pakhtuns having an Aryan, Jewish, Arab or mixed origin. None was convincing enough to found a conclusion. Patahns are extremely obsessed and curious to know about their origin of their race, however it might not be a major concern for many other races. Some people believe that they might also be related to Khalid bin walid and as a result of which Pathans might also have an Arabic origin. While another school of thought relate them to of Adolf Hitler’s that has a link to the Afghans to the Aryans and ultimately a linkage to Pathans of Peshawar. Pakistan Independence Day, August 14. The arrival of Sparlay or Spring, known as Naw-Wraz is also celebrated by some Pashtuns. It is an ageless annual Pashtun festival which celebrates both the beginning of spring and the New Year. Amongst some Pashtuns, Sheshbeeyeh, a prelude festival of Nava Wroz is also celebrated. This tradition still survives, mainly among. Pashtun work at a variety of occupations in agriculture, business, and trade. Women and children also play roles in agricultural work. 

Many Pashtun of Afghanistan are small agricultural workers. Working conditions are usually better for Pashtun living in Pakistan than for those in Afghanistan. Pashtun is valiant, hard working and just plain beautiful, inside and out. Not only are they nice and hospitable towards their guests and respectful towards women, they are resourceful you would seldom see a Pashtun not earning his keep. On top of that, they are very proud of their culture and heritage and that’s really worth a nod or two. That’s why we decided to showcase all that the Pashtun culture has to offer, one picture at a time. There are many characteristics of Pakhtun culture and a hujra is one of them. In fact, it is deemed to be the most important part of Pakhtun culture. A hujra can be loosely translated as a social club. From the western mountainous terrains of Pakistan to the heart of Afghanistan to anywhere in the world where Pakhtuns live, there exists the hujra. Exclusively for the male population, a hujra plays host to various aspects of the social life of Pakhtun society from resolving community disputes to wedding ceremonies. However, the very existence of this age-old tradition is currently threatened due to modernisation and Western democracy. The purpose of a hujra A typical hujra is owned and run.Pashtun culture is attractive, rich and full of traditions and arts.

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Culture of Province of Balochistan

Culture of Balochistan is Rich in Traditions, Arts and Crafts

Baloch culture is opposite to the general perception of it. Though Balochistan is an area of barren lands, deserts and mountains, the Baloch culture is full of traditions, arts and crafts. Balochi embroidery is one of the most popular arts and crafts which are made by the females. Baluchistan is also known for its tribes and festivals. Another distinct feature of Baloch culture is the storytelling tradition. Poets and story tellers are highly respected in Baloch culture. Cultural landscape of Balochistan portrays various ethnic groups. Pashtoon, Brahvi and Balochi ethnic groups are known for their hospitality. Guest is accorded in high esteem and regarded as a blessing from God. Another adorable feature of Balochistan culture is faithfulness and sincerity in all relationships. There is not any place or respect for unfaithful people in prevalent moral order. If fidelity is reciprocated with disloyalty or betrayal it is never forgotten. The tribal chief is called Sardar while head of sub-tribe is known as Malik. Takari or Mir. Baloch cultural day is celebrated on 2nd of March every year and One of the major provinces of Pakistan is Balochistan and it covers the largest area in Pakistan. In Balochistan cultural landscape shows different cultural groups. In Balochistan there are three main families named as Pashtoon, Baloch and Brahvi and they have different languages. But still in their literature, moral orders, beliefs and customs they have similarity, but religion is the major binding factor between them which gives the base for common social orders and unity. People in Balochistan are popular as they consider guests are the blessings of God and famous for their sustainability. In all relations, Balochi are sincere and faithful and there is no respect and place for the unfaithful people. 

Like all the other provinces of Pakistan in the national dress shalwar kameez with distinct additions and modifications are worn in Baloch culture. The people dress up very pleasingly and the same way in all the tribes. Turban is the common headwear of Bloch men along with wide loose shalwar along with knee-long shirts. Females dress consists of a shirt having a big pocket and embroidery and embedded round mirror work in front. A big Dupatta or Chaddar is taken in order to cover the head and shoulders. In Baloch culture marriages are uncommon and unique than in the other provinces of the country. Marriages are according to Islamic principles in presence of a Mullana along with the presence of witnesses. Every member of the family is involved in the marriage; they express their joy and happiness by following the traditions of their culture. Usually marriages are done in young ages but are arranged in early childhood or at birth. There is a very low or negligible ratio of love marriages as this is not appreciated across the culture in all tribes. Usually marriages take place within tribes but at times intra tribal marriages are also conducted. Divorce rate is very low in the Baluchistan as compared to the other provinces of Pakistan because they think is a matter of disrespect for the family and honor of the tribe. Different rituals are celebrated in separate tribes. In some tribes there is a tradition of takings. Valver, it is a sum of money paid by the groom to the family of the bride. Balochi is the foremost language of Balochistan. It is spoken over extensive areas of the province. It is equally rich in poetic and romantic literature. Besides, other languages which are spoken in Balochistan are Brahui and Makrani. Brahui is spoken in Qalat areas while Makrani is spoken in Makrani, the coastal region of Balochistan. Balochi customs and traditions are carried out according to codes imposed by tribal laws. 

These strong traditions and cultural values are important to Baloch people and have allowed them to keep their distinctive ancient cultural identity and way of life with little change to this day. The culture and traditions of the Baloch have historically been adopted down from mother to daughter, and from father to son. It is a land of having a unique and diversified culture which is covered by the love, peace and harmony between the residents of this province. The aroma of the people of Balochistan is to love and to give warmth welcome and a boundless hospitality to their guests. Religion Islam has bound all the people of Balochistan in a very strong bond; they are loveable in spite of being.Conservative. The people of Balochistan are living a very simple life which makes them different from the people of other provinces of Pakistan. The culture of Balochistan is very beautiful and rich. Both religious and social festivals are celebrated by the Baloch people. The religious festivals are same as across the country like Eid-ul-Azha and Eid-ul-Fiter. These religious festivals are celebrated by decorating houses wearing modern dresses cooking special dishes. Baloch culture is full of many social festivals like Sibi festival which has folk music performance, cultural dances, handicrafts stalls, cattle shows and a number of other entertaining activities showing the colorful side of Baloch people. Buzkashi is another festival showing rather enhancing the bravery tactfulness and bravery of the Baloch people. It is celebrated on horse-back by two teams that use their skills to snatch a goat from the each other. Usually Baloch people have meals in the morning and evening. Men and women eat separately. Wheat, millet and rice are a part of the Baloch meal. Meat is also an important part. Sajji is the favorite dish of most people. Sajji is the food eaten with a knife other than that Baloch people usually eat with hands. Milk, butter and vegetables are also a member of Baloch cuisine.

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Music of Pakistan

Pakistani Music contained Folk, Classical and Modern Music 

The variety of Pakistani music ranges from diverse provincial folk music, classical styles and traditional styles such as Qawwali and Ghazal Gayaki to modern forms fusing traditional and western music, such as the synchronization of Qawwali and western music by the world renowned Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Folk music of Pakistan includes the traditional forms of Balochi, Pashto, Punjabi, and Sindhi. Pakistani folk songs include Abeeti a love song sung by young women, Allah Hoo a Muslim lullaby and Ashoor Jan a patriotic love song. Badala or Sandara is a historically significant form of Pashto folk music that focuses on local romance, epics, folktales, fables, local heroes and historical events. Badala also includes Pashto translations of epics and romance from Arabic and Persian. In addition Pakistan is host to many famous folk singers such as the late Alam Lohar, who is also well known in Indian Punjab. The arrival of Afghan refugees in the western provinces has rekindled Pashto and Persian music and established Peshawar as a hub for Afghan musicians and a distribution center for Afghan music abroad. Pakistan is expected to be very rich in musicians, singers and style of music. Pakistani music is comprises of different items ranging music from different parts of central Asia, South Asia Arabic, Turkish, Persian and also the modern popular Western music, all influence the Pakistani music and with the effect of these music a unique and individual Pakistani sound has originated. Ghazals are traditionally expressions of love, separation and loneliness, for which the gazelle is an appropriate image. 

A ghazal can thus be understood as a poetic expression of both the pain of loss or separation of the lover and the beauty of love in spite of that pain. Structural requirements of the ghazal are more stringent than those of most poetic forms traditionally written in English. In its style and content it is a genre which has proved capable of an extraordinary variety of expression around its central theme of love and separation between lovers. The ghazal spread into South Asia in the 12th century under the influence of the new Islamic Sultanate courts and Sufi mystics. Exotic to the region, as is designated by the very sounds of the name itself when properly pronounced as ġazal. Although the ghazal is most prominently a form of Urdu poetry, today, it has influenced the poetry of many languages. Most Ghazal singers get to know classical music and sing in either Khyal or Thumri. Qawwali is a vibrant musical tradition that dates back more than 700 years in old India. Originally performed mainly at Sufi shrines throughout India, it has also gained mainstream popularity. Qawwali music received international exposure through the work of the late Bakhshi Salamat, Aziz Mian, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Sabri Brothers, largely due to several releases on the 'Real World' label, followed by live appearances at WOMAD festivals. 

Listeners, and often artists themselves are transported to a state of wajad, a trance-like state where they feel 'one with God', generally considered to be the height of spiritual ecstasy in Sufism. The roots of Qawwali can be traced back to the 8th century from Persia, however, Qawwali in the form we know it today, was essentially created by Amir Khusrau in the late 13th century in old India. During the first major migration in the 11th century, the musical tradition of Sama migrated to South Asia from Turkey. Rumi and his Mevlana order of Sufism have been the propagators of Sama in Central Asia. Amir Khusrau of the Chisti order of Sufis is recorded with fusing the Turkish, Persian, Arabic, and South Asian musical traditions, to create Qawwali as well as the classical music tradition. The word, Sama, is used in Central Asia and Turkey, for forms very similar to Qawwali while in Pakistan, the formal name used for a session of Qawwali is Mehfil-e-Sama. Classical music of Pakistan is based on the traditional music of South Asia which was patronized by various empires that ruled the region and gave birth to numerous genres of classic music including the Klasik and Hindustani classical music. The classical music of Pakistan has two main principles, sur and lai. The systematic organization of musical notes into a scale is known as a raag. The arrangement of rhythm in a cycle is known as taal. Improvisation plays a major role during a performernce. The major genres of classical music in Pakistan are dhrupad and khayal. Dhrupad is approaching extinction in Pakistan despite vocalists like Ustad Badar uz Zaman, Ustad Hafeez Khan and Ustad Afzal Khan have managed to keep this art form alive. Khayal is the most popular genre of classical music in Pakistan as it is also enjoyed with much enthusiasm in Afghanistan. Pakistani folk music deals, with subjects surrounding daily life in less grandiose terms than the love and emotion usually contained in its traditional and classical counterpart. 

In Pakistan, each province has its variation of popular folk music. Pakistan has created many famous singers in this discipline such as the late Alam Lohar, who was very influential in the period from 1940 until 1979,  he created the concept of jugni and this has been a folk song ever since, and he sang heer, sufiana kalaams, mirza, sassi and many more famous folk stories. Other famous folk singers include Sain Zahoor and Alam Lohar from Punjab and Allan Fakir and Mai Bhaghi from Sindh, Akhtar Chanal Zahri from Baluchistan and Zarsanga from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, who is envisaged the queen of Pashto folk music. The music of Balochistan province is very rich and full of varieties due to the various different types of languages which are spoken in the province, including Balochi, Pashto, Brahui, Dari and Saraiki. Music from the Punjab province includes many different varieties. The traditional music utilizes instruments like the dhol, flute, dholak, and tumbi. The most commonly recognized form of Punjabi music, bhangra, is based on drum rhythms of the dhol. Its modern popularity has led to the use of modern instruments and electronic sound sampling. Bhangra is a Punjabi folk dance that has become popular all over Pakistan. Bhangra and Panjabi folk songs have been an integral part of the fertile provinces cultural history and various themes are related to harvest and cultivation. Others still draw on the poetic history of the province which transcends ethnic and religious boundaries. The predominant language found in Pakistan's Northern Areas has an extensive oral history which goes back several thousand years. With the increase in tourism to Pakistan's Northern Areas and increased domestic as well as global awareness of the local folk music, the Shinha folk traditions have managed to stay alive and vibrant. A dardic language with considerable Persian influence is found in Pakistan's Chitral region in the North West of the country. Khowar folk music had considerable patronage particularly during the rule of the Mehtars in the last century. 

Folk music in this region has remained relatively pure and unscathed by modern influences owing to the relative isolation of this area. The arrival of many refugees from the adjacent Nuristan province of Afghanistan and the subsequent increase in commercial activity in Chitrali bazaars allowed this indigenous form of music to flourish in the past few decades. Siraiki is spoken by people in southern Punjab and northern Sindh. It has its own culture and life style and most speakers of love to listen to the music of their native Language as would the speakers of any other language. Atta Ullah Essa Khelvi is one of the most famous names in promoting, Siraiki, Songs and Music. Essa Khelvi belongs to Essa Khail, a part of district Mianwail and originated his music from the city of Mianwali. Recent media developments have now brought more talent into the field of entertainment specially the channel the Kook TV broadcasted locally has been a major contributor of Saraiki language into National Media. The seraiki language is often considered the sweetest of all Pakistani languages. Music from Sindh province is sung in Sindhi, and is generally performed in either the Baits or Waee, styles. The Baits style is vocal music in Sanhoon, low voice or Graham, high voice. Waee instrumental music is performed in a variety of ways using a string instrument. Waee, also known as Kafi, is found in the surrounding areas of Balochistan, Punjab, and Rajasthan. Common instruments used in Sindhi regional music include the Yaktaro, Narr, and Naghara. Pashto music is generally found in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and in Pakistan's major urban centres such as Karachi, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Sialkot and Multan. Music genres include Tappa, Charbeta, Neemkai, Loba, Shaan and Badala.

Music from Hazara division is sung in Hindko dialect, and is generally performed in either the Mahiyay or Shaer styles. The past few decades have seen the Pakistani music industry reach the heights of success. The little pop element, planted by the legendary playback singer Ahmed Rushdi, helped newcomers in taking the Pakistani musical scene a whole new level. With their impeccable vocals, compositions, and lyrics, many of our singers got the chance to improve their horizons not just across the border but all over the world. In recent times, the reputation our music has been able to build is because of the hard artists from different eras have put in, adding their own flavor to the delightful palette we present as our music industry.Here is a some of singers whose contributions led to the evolution of pop music in Pakistan. The sibling duo of the late singer Nazia Hassan and Zoheb Hassan started off their careers as pop singers in the beginning of 1980s. Together, the two siblings produced some of the most famous pop and disco songs that are still as eminent among Pakistani as well as international audiences. Some of their popular songs include Dum Dum Dee Dee, Aap Jaisa Koi, Zara Chehra Tou, Disco Diwane, Sunn and Aankhen Milanay Walay. Ali Haider, Sajjad Ali, Shahzad Roy, Najam Sheraz, Alamgir, Mohammad Ali Shehki, Bunny and Hadiqa Kiyani are some of the other stars who took the music world by storm with innumerable hits. Their association with PTV helped these singers boost their careers, making pop a celebrated part of our musical culture. Presently, the music industry may not be approved as strong as it was in the past but there is still some good work going on. Performers like Atif Aslam, Noori, Roxen, Jal, Karvaan, Mizraab, Ahmed Jahanzeb and many others are still making every effort to keep the hope for music alive in Pakistan.

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Culture of Pakistani Punjab

lifestyle of People Pakistani Province Punjab

Lifestyle basically shows the living stanandard and traditions of people. All the provinces of Pakistan have a different lifestyle. They spoke different languages, dress up themselves depending on their culture and the variety of food makes them unique from others. Thus cultural effect can be seen in their lifestyles.  Punjab is Pakistan's second largest province by area after Balochistan, and is Pakistan's most populous province with an estimated population of 101,391,000 as of 2015. It is bordered by the Pakistani provinces of Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as the regions of Islamabad Capital Territory and Azad Kashmir. It also shares a border with the Indian states of Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu and Kashmir. The capital of Punjab is the city Lahore, a cultural centre of Pakistan where the country's cinema industry, and much of its fashion industry, is based. The population of the Punjab is 56% of total population of Pakistan. There are 36 districts in Punjab province of Pakistan. Punjab shares its part in the economy of Pakistan 50 to 60%.Literacy rate in Punjab is 38%. Punjab is Pakistan's most industrialised province with the industrial sector accounting for 24% of the province's gross domestic product. Punjab is well known in Pakistan for its relative prosperity, and has the lowest rate of poverty amongst all Pakistani provinces. A clear divide is found between the northern and southern portions of the province, with poverty rates in prosperous northern Punjab amongst the lowest in Pakistan, while some in south Punjab are amongst the most impoverished. Punjab is among South Asia's most urbanized regions with approximately 40% of people living in urban areas. Its human development index rankings are high relative to the rest of Pakistan. 

Punjab is famous all over the world for its strength of effective culture. Villages of Pakistan are root areas where this renowned culture prevails. People become of good and harmless nature. They respect their tradition and do accord with traditional norms. Punjab always played an important role in the history of Indo-Pak. Punjab was divided in two parts in 1947 one parts to India and other to Pakistan. People of Punjab like gathering and prefer to calibrate every event of life.Punjabi poetry in every accent of Punjabi is common in Punjab. Punjab is abounding in this term of literature, Sufis of Punjab added much more in Punjabi literature. Lahore is the provincial capital of Punjab and famous for its recreational activities. Peoples of Lahore is famous all over the world due to their calibration of the Basant event and their love for fun. Five rivers of Punjab are life line for the agriculture of Punjab. In basic units of cultures, villages, people are very kind and sympathetic to each other. They take part in grief and happiness of each other. They welcome their guests with open arms. Peoples sits late night to tell traditional tales like Hir Waris Shah and Saif ul  Maluk. Punjabi music is also full of every color and line of music as Punjabi of Pakistan has a good taste in music. Lahore and some other cities of Punjab are of much more importance for Sikh community of India, as Nankana Sahib a district of Punjab is birth place of the founder of the Sikh religion. Sikh from all over the world visit to Punjab, Pakistan every year. As an agricultural province Punjab plays vital role in economy of Pakistan. In Lahore city historically Badshahi Mosque and Jahngir tomb are of much more importance. Data Sb in Lahore is a sacred place for people of Punjab & Pakistan. Many visitors from all over the world visit to Data Sahib every year. Bhangra is one of the many Punjabi musical art forms that are increasingly being listened to in the west and is becoming a mainstream favourite. Punjabi wedding traditions and ceremonies are traditionally conducted in Punjabi and are a strong reflection of Punjabi culture.

Punjabi people are expected to be very warm hearted and fun loving. Punjabi are a heterogeneous group comprising of different tribes, clans, communities and are known to celebrate each and every tradition of their culture. People of Punjab have strong beliefs on pir-faqeers, jogi, taweez, manat-ka-dhaga, saint of repute, black magic, and other superstitions, however recently due to increase of literacy, people have become somewhat rational. Punjabi also believe in casting system but as now people are getting educated. The differences are getting blurred. Some popular casts of Punjabi’s are; Jats, Maliks, Mughals, Arains, Gujjars, Awans, Rajputs, Gakhars, Khokhars, Sheikhs, Aheers, Kambohs, Niazis, Legharis, Khosas, Dogars, Thaheem, Mirani, Qureshis, and Syeds. In villages’ people usually live in small communities, biradaris, however they live in peace and harmony with each other. They take active part in the happiness and grieve of each other and give a great deal of respect for their culture, norms and run their lives according to their set traditions. Punjabi people are famous for their hospitable and loving nature. 

Punjabi is the provincial language of Punjab. It is spoken as the first language of most people in Punjab, even spoken and understood in areas beyond the confines of Punjab. Facts and figures show that the Punjabi language is spoken as a first language by 44% of Pakistanis. The urdu language is also commonly spoken in this region. Key Punjabi languages/dialects are Pothowari, Hindko, Jhangvi, Shahpuri, Pahari, Majhi and Saraiki. Costumes of Punjab are an indication of the bright and vibrant culture and lifestyle of the people. The costumes are a mix of colours, comfort and beauty and Punjab is well known for the use of phulkari, embroidery, in its costumes. In most of the villages of Punjab men wear Pagri, turban, dhoti or lacha, kurta, khusa. Women wear gharara, or choridar pajama or colorful shalwar kameez, paranda, choli or duppata, khusa, kola puri chappal or tillay wali jutti. Whereas in urban areas of Punjab men and women follow the latest trends and fashion. Generally they wear different styles of shalwar kameez. Extensive cuisine of Punjab can be vegetarian and non-vegetarian. One commonality between all Punjabi dishes is the liberal use of ghee or clarified butter spices and Punjabis are fond of sweet-meats also. Most Punjabi food are eaten with either rice or roti. There are some dishes that are exclusive to Punjab such as Mah Di Dal, Paratha, Makai ki rotti, Saron Da Saag, and in cities Choley, Haleem, Baryani and other spicy dishes are popular. In beverages, tea is consumed in all seasons and as a custom most of Punjabis serve tea to their guests. Punjabi are also fond of Zarda, Gulab Jamuns, Kheer, Jalaibi,Samosy, Pakorey etc. During summers people drink lassi, doodh-soda, aloo bokharey ka sharbat, lemonade etc.  These cuisines have become world-wide delicacies with large scale representation. Bhangra is most often known Punjabi music genre and dance style. Punjabi passionately love folk songs/music. Qawali and Punjabi music is recognized throughout the world. The Tabla, Dhol, Dholki, Chimta, Flute and Sitar are all common instruments of this delightful culture. Punjabi dance is based around happiness, energy and enthusiasm.Different forms of dance in Punjab are: Loddi, Dhamal, Sammi, Kikli, Gatka, Bhangra, Giddha and Dandiya. Punjabi dances have been embraced by the American culture and others alike and now they are among the most appreciated art forms.

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Culture of Pakistan

Pakistan has a Multi-Cultural Society

Living lifestyle of people of Pakistan called culture, in which included numerous ethnic groups the Punjabis, Kashmiris, Sindhis in East, Muhajirs, Makrani in the South Baloch and Pashtun in the west; and the ancient Dardic, Wakhi, Baltistani and Burusho communities in the north. The culture of these Pakistani ethnic groups have been greatly influenced by many of its neighbors, such as the other South Asians, Turkic peoples, as well as the peoples of Central Asia and the Middle East. Pakistan is under a rich cultural and ethnic background going back to Indus Valley Civilization, 2800 BC to 1800 BC. The region of Pakistan has been invaded in the past, occupied and settled by many different people, including Aryans, Greeks, White Huns, Arabs, Turks, Mongols and various Eurasian groups. The diverse ethnic groups have differences in dress, food, and religion. The cultural origins come from the civilizations of India and eastern Afghanistan, with significant influences from Persia, Turkestan and Hellenistic Greece. It was the first time part of the subcontinent to receive the full impact of Islam. Hence it has developed an identity of its own. Pakistani society is to a great extent multilingual, multiethnic and multicultural. Though cultures within the country differ to some extent, more similarities than differences can be discovered, as most Pakistanis are mainly of Aryan heritage or have coexisted side by side along the Indus River for several thousand years, or both. However, over 60 years of integration, a distinctive.  Pakistani culture has sprung up, especially in the urban areas where many of the diverse ethnic groups have coexisted and in many cases, intermarried. Education is highly considered by members of every social economic stratum, with the country now having a literacy rate of 55%, up from 3% at the time of independence. Traditional family values are highly respected and considered sacred, although urban families increasingly form nuclear families, owing to social economic constraints imposed by the traditional culture of the extended family. The region has formed a distinct unit within the main geographical complex of South Asia, the Middle East and Central Asia from the earliest times, and is similar to the position of Afghanistan. There are differences among ethnic groups in cultural aspects such as dress, food, and religion, especially where pre-Islamic customs differ from Islamic practices. Their cultural origins also reveal influences from far afield, including China, India and Afghanistan. Pakistan was the first region of South Asia to be fully impacted by Islam and has thus developed a distinct Islamic identity, historically different from areas further east.

Dresses and Food of Pakistan

Regardless of the fact that Pakistan's population is almost entirely Muslim, 96.4% as of 2010, women's status differs significantly by community. Women's dress varies according to region, class and occasion, but shalwar kameez is the principal garment worn by Pakistani women. Ghararas, a loose divided skirt worn with a blouse,  and lehengas were common earlier, but are now worn mostly at weddings. Few Pakistani women wear the hijab or burqa in public, and the degree to which they decide to cover varies; with the use of the burqa being primarily predominant in Pashtun territories. Some traditionally Afghan clothing styles have become prevalent in recent decades in some areas of Pakistan. Pakistan does not have laws banning or enforcing the hijab. Surveys conducted in Pakistan show that most women wearing the hijab do so of their own choice. The veil does not constitute an absolute requirement, and women may even wear jeans and T-shirts in urban areas of Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and other big cities. In last five years, western dressing has become much universal among women in cities. Many women wear pants, plazzo and tight jeans with long shirts as well as short shirts. Most women in small cities and rural areas wear the Shalwar Kameez, which consists of a tunic top and baggy trouser set which covers their arms, legs and body. A loose dupatta scarf is also worn around the shoulders, upper chest and head. Men also have a similar dress code, but only women are supposed to wear a dupatta in public. 

Some Pakistani women who do not wear hijab may wear the dupatta or chadar instead. A sari is a formal dress worn on special occasions by some, mainly urban, women. Men wear shalwar kameez, kurta, Pakistani Waistcoat, achkan and sherwani, churidar or pajama. Other items of clothing include the jama and the angarkha. Headgear includes the Jinnah Cap also called Karakul, Fez also called Rumi Topi and Taqiyah. Khussa is popular foot wear. Other items include traditional shawls made of Pashmina or other warm materials especially in the Northern regions of the country. Men wear diffrent dress according to their area and tradition in Pakistan ,like Balochi wears a long jama like a smock-frock down to the heels, loose shalwar, a long chadar or scarf, a pagri of cotton cloth, and mostly shoes that nanow at the toe. The material is thick cloth with very wide shalwar to protect against the hot wind of the dry Sulaiman Range and Kharan Desert. Sindhi people wear a version of the shalwar called a suthan with a kameez called cholo. Other traditional clothing includes the Sindhi cap and Ajrak of beautiful designs which are made locally. Men also traditionally wear the dhoti and the long angerkho. Punjabi men wear the straight cut Punjabi shalwar kameez, kurta and shalwar, dhoti, lungi or tehmat and kurta. Other Punjabi shalwar styles include the Pothohari shalwar, Multani shalwar and the Bahawalpuri shalwar which is very wide and baggy with many folds. Turban of a thin cloth is also worn especially in rural areas of Punjab where it is called pagri. Footwear include the khussa. In Pashtun dress, people wear traditional Peshawari chappal as footwear. The traditional male Pashtun dress includes the Khet partug, Peshawari shalwar and the Perahan wa tunban. Males usually wear kufi, Peshawari cap, turban, sindhi cap or pakul as traditional headgear. In Pakistan the traditional wedding ceremony is celebrated by wearing different clothes in each wedding event. 

In the Mehndi function, men wear an embroided kurta in glittering colours with simple shalwar, patiala shalwar and a colorful shawl which they put on their shoulders and sometimes round the neck. In some weddings, dress code is decided before the ceremony and all men carry the same color. Up to the wedding day, the bride may wear a yellow or orange kameez, with a simple shalwar, patiala shalwar, yellow dupatta and yellow paranda. During baraat and walima functions, the groom usually wears kurta shalwar or kurta churidar with special sherwani and khussa. During the event of baraat, grooms also wear traditional sehra on their head. In new trend in Pakistan, mostly groom wear sherwani with tight jeans which is look like a churidaar pajama. Brides normally wear an expensive lehenga or gharara preferably in red, maroon and pink colors with heavy jewellery. Because at least 95 percent of the Pakistani population is Muslim, there are two food customs that are followed almost universally. One is that Muslims do not eat pork, therefore beef, chicken, lamb, and fish are the basic foods, and the other is that during the month of Ramadan, fasting is a daily activity. Spices and curry are an essential part of any Pakistani recipe. The most prevalent spices include chili powder, tumeric, garlic, paprika, black and red pepper, cumin seed, bay leaf, coriander, cardamom, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, saffron, nutmeg, and poppy seeds, among others. Using yogurt to marinate meats is another typical recipe. Because of the use of spices and curry for the main dish, the usual side dish is plain rice. Lentils are another common specialty. The food in the south is more exotic and highly spiced. While that in the north often features plain barbecued meat as the main dish. Usually any meat, fowl, or seafood is curried, and frying is the typical method of cooking. Ghee, which is clarified butter, is another commonly used recipe item and is typically used for frying. Wheat and flour products are considered mainstays of the everyday diet, and the use of pickles, chutneys, preserves, and sauces along with curried meats, seafood, vegetables, and lentils and are why Pakistani cuisine has such a unique flavor. Green tea is the typical drink served at all meals.

Music and Folk Dance of Pakistan

Music of Pakistan includes diverse elements ranging from music from various parts of South Asia as well as Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and modern-day Western popular music influences. With these multiple influences, a Pakistani distinctive sound has been formed. Music of Pakistan dates back to over hundred of years. Pakistan is the modern name of a country once was named as Sindu Supta and India, Land of Indus. This is where the great Indus civilization flourished which was rich in art, music and dance. The dancing girl and the musical pots found from Moen Jo Daro are some of the proofs of the early music of this land. Pakistani music has evolved with many historic phases under which this land went thru. Invaders from all corners of the world brought their bits of spices to the music, culture and art of Pakistan. 

After the arrival of Islam and than the revolution of Sufism music became ever more mature and developed a new identity of itself. The ghazal spread into South Asia in the 12th century under the influence of the new Islamic Sultanate courts and Sufi mystics. Exotic to the region, as is indicated by the very sounds of the name itself when properly pronounced as ġazal. Although the ghazal is most prominently a form of Urdu poetry, today, it has influenced the poetry of many languages. 

Most Ghazal singers are trained in classical music and sing in either Khyal or Thumri. Qawwali music received international exposure through the work of the late Bakhshi Salamat, Aziz Mian, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and sabri brothers, largely due to several releases on the Real World label, followed by live appearances at WOMAD festivals. Listeners, and often artists themselves are transported to a state of wajad, a trance-like state where they feel at one with God, generally considered to be the height of spiritual ecstasy in Sufism. The roots of Qawwali can be traced back to the 8th century from Persia, however, Qawwali in the form we know it today was essentially created by Amir Khusrau in the late 13th century. Classical music of Pakistan is based on the traditional music of South Asia which was patronized by various empires that ruled the region and gave birth to several genres of classic music including the Klasik and Hindustani classical music. The classical music of Pakistan has two main principles. The systematic organization of musical notes into a scale is known as a raag. The arrangement of rhythm in a cycle is known as taal. Improvisation plays a major role during a performance. Pakistani folk music deals, with subjects surrounding daily life in less grandiose terms than the love and emotion usually contained in its traditional and classical counterpart. In Pakistan, each province has its own variation of popular folk music. Pakistan has created many famous singers in this discipline such as the late Alam Lohar, who was very influential in the period of 1940 until 1979: he created the concept of jugni and this has been a folk song ever since, and he sang heer, sufiana kalaams, mirza, sassi and many more famous folk stories. Other famous folk singers include Sain Zahoor and Alam Lohar from Punjab and Allan Fakir and Mai Bhaghi from Sindh, Akhtar Chanal Zahri from Baluchistan and Zarsanga from North-West Frontier Province who is considered the queen of Pashto folk music. Folk music of the Punjab is the traditional music of Punjab produced using traditional musical instruments like Tumbi, Algoze, Dhadd, Sarangi, Chimta and more. There is a wide range of folk songs for every occasion from birth to death including marriage, festivals, fairs and religious ceremonies. 

Different arts and crafts flourished in the urban areas of Multan and Bahawalpur among which music and dance are important cultural elements and are part of most of the celebrations and ceremonies. Jhoomar is the traditional Saraiki folk dance that originated from Multan and Balochistan. It is a lively form of music and dance and it is slow and rhythmic. The word ,Jhoomar, comes from jhoom, which means swaying. Folk music is often perceived as the traditional music of Punjab and typically has communal authorship. This aspect of folk music has shifted with time but the older categories of folk begin with the dhadi genre, which does follow ideas of communal authorship. The folk dhadi genre emphasizes stories of heroism and love stories, as exemplified by the numerous ballads of the legendary romantic tales of Hir-Ranjha and Sahiba-Mirza. Folk music is also commonly used in various life-cycle events in the Punjab region. In almost every wedding ceremony family members, friends, and professional folk musicians perform different sets of folk songs which use themes from a nostalgic past, but communicate themes of separation, joy, fear, and hope in the present. The lyrical content of many of these wedding songs have the paternal home depicted as a source of love and nurture, while the in-laws home is a source of tyranny and torture. Folk music continues to be used as a modern tool and a way of locating identification. Music from Sindh province is sung in Sindhi, and is generally performed in either the, Baits or Waee, styles. The Baits style is vocal music in Sanhoon low voice or Graham, high voice. Waee instrumental music is performed in a variety of ways using a string instrument. Waee, also known as Kafi, is found in the surrounding areas of Balochistan, Punjab, and Kutch. Pashto music is commonly performed in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, northern Balochistan province and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas as well as parts of eastern Afghanistan and among the Pashtun Diaspora. The major center for Pashto music and the arts is found in Peshawar, Pakistan. Potohari has a rich tradition of poetry recital accompanied by sitar, ghara, tabla, harmonium and dholak. These poems, potohari sher, are often highly lyrical and somewhat humorous and secular in nature, though religious sher are also recited. Kashmiri music reflects the rich musical heritage and cultural legacy of Kashmir. 

Traditionally music composed by ethnic Kashmiris has a wide range of musical influences in composition. Due to Kashmir's close proximity to Central Asia. Eastern Asia and Southern Asia, a unique blend of music has evolved encompassing the music of the three regions. But, overall, Kashmiri Valley music is closer to Central Asian music, using traditional Central Asian instruments and musical scales, while music from Jammu is similar to that of North India and Ladakhi music is similar to the music of Tibet. Pakistan features a wealthy history in addition to various individual dances. Shortly we are going to tell you about the famous folk dances of Pakistan. Folk grooving is surely an expression of delight. Some sort of party of lifetimes; it is magnificence in addition to colour. They will deliver an awareness of freedom, having regional affinities in addition to dissimilarities plus an appeal of these individual. Many times they will inform experiences in addition to will be able to talk very much depth of this means without the requirement terms. Bhangra: just the most well-known in addition to common dances. It is one of the most famous folk dances of Pakistan and performed in the Punjab region. Luddi a trendy attribute of the wedding festivities throughout Pakistan. It truly is typically done by women of all age’s family users with the woman. Sammi a conventional Punjabi party. Commonly, it offers some sort of slow flow and is particularly accompanied by a sad music for the connection having awful adored legend of Romantic Sammi in addition to King Dhola. Giddha, this kind of party type originates from the actual historic model of ring grooving and is particularly really dynamic, usually did on specific occasions and also other fun activities.

Your flow commonly comes from hand-clapping yet from time to time while modest drum is employed. Leva your Leva is usually a common attribute on wedding and also other pleasant occasions inside the contemporary tribal society with the Baluchis. Chap the palm clapping party typically done by adult men on marriages. Jhumar or maybe Jhoomar originated in Balochistan in addition to Multan, Punjab. It truly is slower plus much more rhythmic type. Your message, Jhumar, comes from Jhum/Jhoom, so this means swaying. Attan folk party of Pakhtoon tribes of Pakistan like the distinctive methods of Quetta in addition to Waziristan. Khattak dance the speedy blade party. That celebrates the actual valour of the Pakhtoons exactly who efficiently ignored attempts for you to subjugate these in addition to their particular colonies within the last eras. It has it won important in the folk dances of Pakistan. Chitrali dance it’s also done throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa along the Gilgit Baltistan. Few users with the crew conduct that in concert. Each of them placed their particular arms for the shoulder blades of each different in addition to fit their particular ft operates with each other. That party is performed around conquer of major drums. Dhammal conducted on Sufi Shrines and Darghas throughout Punjab in addition to Sindh. Ho Jamalo, just about the most popular Sindhi dances in addition to songs, that celebrates the actual gallantry with the eighteenth centuries enthusiast, Jamal Khan Rind, exactly that protected his homeland coming from foreign intruders. It truly is danced on occasions of the party in addition to festivity. This dance of Sindh region is also very famous one in folk dances of Pakistan and performed in this province. Jhumro. The actual party is performed by small town ladies for you to commemorate a superb crop. 

Cultural and Religious Festivals of Pakistan

Pakistan has a very vibrant and rich culture and is very much popular all over the world for its many different festivals and joyous events, Pakistani people specially youngster knows how these cultural events are celebrated. There is an array of different events some of them are related to the history. Some with religion and some are related to the rich culture of the country. There are different festivities from Eid day to Independence Day all the events are celebrated with great zeal and zest. Pakistan Day is a momentous milestone in the history of Pakistan movement. This event is held to mark the anniversary of Pakistan Resolution passed by the Muslims of South Asia on March 23, 1940 at Minto Park, now Iqbal Park, Lahore. The resolution was presented by A. K. Fazlul Huq. The nation commemorates this day with great zeal and enthusiasm, to honor the most outstanding achievement of the Muslims of South Asia who passed the historic Pakistan Resolution resulting in the creation of Pakistan under the dynamic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah; a homeland where they could live in peace, harmony and in accordance with the tenets of Islam. Independence Day glorious day is a landmark in our history to commemorate the independence of Pakistan. Independence Day is celebrated with zeal and fervor in all parts of the country on August 14 with special programmes arranged in all big and small towns and rural areas. On this day, meetings, processions and rallies are held all over the country and the whole country is decorated on this day. People from various walks of life decorate their houses with national flags and the buildings, city shopping centres, bazaars and all the main roads are also being adorned with flags and fancy lights. The 6th of September is a golden chapter in the history of Pakistan, when Pakistan, its military and people stood united in 1965 in defense day of Pakistan and resolve to halt and beat back Indian multi-dimensional attacks against Pakistan. This historic day is commemorated through parades and exhibitions of military equipment at Rawalpindi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta and Karachi. Air Force day is celebrated on 7th of September marking the official beginning of the Indo-Pak war of 1965. That day air shows and other programs mark the PAF's role in defending the nation. This day is celebrated by a display of the latest aircrafts of Pakistan Airforce and air shows at Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Lahore, Peshawar and Quetta.

9th November is celebrated as the birthday of the National Poet of Pakistan, Allama Iqbal. The event is celebrated with a lot of debating and poetry contests held at different institutes all over Pakistan. Birth Anniversary  of Quaid-e-Azam is celebrated on 25th December as the birthday of the founder of Pakistan Quaid-e-Azam and Christmas. This day is celebrated by the Christian minority and the whole nation. Sibi festival falls in the last week of February at Sibi. Traditional sports, handicrafts exhibition, folk music and dances. Mela Chiraghan, festival of lamps, a mega event for the people of Punjab and especially for Lahorites is celebrated with traditional fervor and activities at the shrine of the renowned Sufi Shah Hussain. This festival is held for 1 week outside the Shalimar Gardens, Lahore. The festival attracts a large number of performing artists who mostly sing Shah Hussain's kafees and dance to the drums. Shandur Polo Festival and Traditional polo tournament between the teams of Chitral and Gilgit is being held on the highest polo ground in the world - the Shandur Pass (Chitral district). Allied activities include folk music, folk dances and other competitions. A tent village along Shandur Lake will be set up in cooperation with the local administration. Utchal This event is celebrated by Kalash people in Kalash Valleys. Chitral.It is celebrated to mark the harvest of wheat and barley. The celebration lasts for two days with dancing, singing, and feasting being its main features. Lok Mela The festival presents a unique opportunity to watch the culture and craft of the whole country in one place. This Folk Festival is held for one week at Islamabad. It includes folk music, songs, music contests, folk dances, craftsmen at work, exhibition and sale of handicrafts. National Horse & Cattle Show Held at Fortress Stadium, Lahore. Cattle races, cattle dances, tent-pegging, tattoo show, folk music, dances, bands, cultural floats and folk games. The show has been described as an eloquent expression of Pakistan's heritage and an authentic account of its agricultural and industrial achievement's. It is held in Lahore Fortress stadium at the end of February or at first week of March. The fortress stadium, the venue of the show is thronged by active participants, foreign visitors and peoples who watch the festival with great enthusiasm, verve and aplomb.  A large number of them are interested in watching and appreciating the best breeds of livestock. Many derive pleasure by watching other activities such as display parade of animals, dances by horses and camels, polo matches, tent pegging, dog shows and their races, vaudeville acts of stuntmen, mass display of military band, rhythmically physical exercise by the children. Tastefully decorated industrial floats and torch light tattoo shows. Additional attractions include a subtle interplay of lights to weave enticing patterns at night and breath taking acts by foreign groups. The show began as a modest exhibition organized by the army to protect the cattle wealth of the country in the early fifties. Today it is an international event to which come dignitaries from abroad and visitors and foreign tourists. The organizing committee comprises representatives of a number of agencies including army, rangers, LMC schools, the police, industrialists and the art councils. With the advent of spring Basant festival is celebrated with pomp and show in mid February every year in Lahore. In other words, this is the spring festival. Arguing that kite-flying is a Hindu event is also sheer ignorance. The sport originated in China about 5000 years ago, when Hinduism was in non existent. Why single out kite flying then, especially when it is a cause for joy for the old and the young men and women? The simple reason is that Hindu in Basant festival fly kites for enjoying Basant. With times of Muslims who were living together with Hindus in the sub-continent also join them in kite-flying. Since then Muslims are taking participation in just kite-flying at the time of Basant connotation it as Pala Urant. Now days people of Lahore enjoy it for kite flying competition. Lahore is the main focal point for the celebration of this festival in Pakistan. People traditionally fly kites on the roofs of their buildings. It is generally observed that rest houses, hotels and house of relatives of the participants are fully packed with guests from all over the country. Moreover some five star hotels also arrange this function on their roof top for foreigners and other high class gentry. They also arrange a variety of dishes with a musical concert. Sometimes Lahoris on this occasion become emotional. Eid-ul-Fitr is a religious festival celebrated at the end of fasting month, Ramadan on 1st of Shawwal. It is a three days celebration during which time family and friends gather together for long meals, the sharing of gifts, and religious devotion. Eid-ul-Azha is three days celebration when Muslims from all over the world offer a sacrifice by slaughtering a sheep, cow, or goat following the traditional Islamic customs. It is also known as the Festival of Sacrifice. The meat from the sacrifice is distributed among friends, neighbors, relatives, and also distributed to the poor and needy. Shab-e-Barat is a religious festival celebrated on 14th of Shaaban. The festival of Shab-e-Barat is celebrated with pomp and enthusiasm by Muslims all over the world. Muslims think that on the night of Shab-e-Barat Allah writes the destinies of all people for the coming year by taking into account the deeds committed by them in the past. On this festival, prayers, fireworks, exchange of sweet dishes and visits to friends and families are held. Eid Milad-un Nabi is the birthday of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is celebrated by all the Muslims with religious enthusiasm and solemnity across the world. It falls on the 12th of Rabi'-ul-Awwal every year. This is a day of remembrance for Muslims, marked by prayers and reading of the Holy Quran.

Pakistani nation is very close to its culture and celebrates cultural festivals with great zeal. There are some festivals, which are celebrated nationwide with full unity but if we focus on provinces of Pakistan. Every province has its different culture and they celebrate different festivals also.

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