Pakhtoons, the people who are known for their bravery and hospitality, reside in a country that has multiethnicity and diverse culture, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Pakistan is located in South Asia which shares a southeastern border with the Peoples Republic of China and an eastern border with India.
Pakistan, known for its unique yet diverse culture is an Islamic country and its foundation is based on the Islamic ways of life so are the cultural aspects. Pakistan has a very rich culture and diversity, it can be referred to as a hub of cultures, previously known as the heart of culture. Pakistan has a mixed culture as it has been influenced or some of its cultural aspects are adopted from the cultures of the neighbouring countries like Persians, Afghans, Turkish, Indias, etc. However, the fact can`t be denied that over the period of time, Pakistan has fostered its own unique identity and culture.
Different ethnic groups and cultures of Pakistan are; Kashmiris, Sindhi, and Punjabi in the east whereas Pakhtoons and Balochi are in the west. All cultural groups have their special traditions, food, clothing, and languages which makes them distinct in a beautiful way.
Pakhtoons, as stated earlier, are the largest ethnic group, residing in the Khyber Pakhtoon Khuwa, also referred to as KPK, Province of Pakistan. KPK is the land of hospitality with mesmerizing landscapes in the southern region of the province and snow-capped and lush green valleys and mountains in the northern region which are the main areas of attraction for tourists. Every year people from around the world visit Pakistan to explore the beauty of Naran, Kaghan, Chitral, Hunza, Sakrdu, etc.
It is due to the comprehensive culture and astonishing history of Pakhtoons, they are known to be renowned and respected fighters. The people of this region, “Pakhtoons” are quite different from the people belonging to other provinces in every manner, from their attire to language and food to traditions. They are recognizably different and are easily identified through their appearance and language.
Pakhtoons have an entirely different way of life, “Pashtunwalia”, which dates back to ancient Islamic times and is still found to be practiced. The main principles of this traditional way of life are,
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- 1. Hospitality
- 2. Justice and Revenge
- 3. Bravery
- 4. Forgiveness
- 5. Faith
- 6. Respect
- 7. Protection
The major aspect of this code emphasizes personal authority and freedom. The Pashtun are very loyal and devoted people, they adhere strictly to their customs. They will fight to the death over three matters which are wealth, women, and land.
Their women cover their heads with Hijab, their faces with veils, and wear a full-length garment known as the burka. Apart from bravery, the Pashtun culture is celebrated and known for its traditional music, dancing, poetry, and storytelling.
Pakhtoon people are beautiful inside and out. They have prominent features, coloured eyes, and brown hair as if they have dyed them. Aside from being brave, pashtoons are very romantic and passionate about dancing. Pakhtoons have a tribal system and each tribe has its own traditional dance. The most popular and famous Pashtun folk dance is Khattak dance which is a symbol of courage and heroism but is confined to male dancers only. Passion for dance perhaps runs in the blood of each and every pakhtun whether male or female.
The people of KPK live a very simple yet colorful life, the Pashtun women wear a vividly polychromatic and beautifully multi-hued attire i.e. a long frock or a loose, long-sleeved tunic dress with a loose trouser (Shalwar) and colorful veil to cover their heads and face. whereas the men wear a knee-length shirt which is known as the ‘khat’ or ‘qamees’ on which they wear a sleeveless embroidered waistcoat along with a loosely fitted trouser known as Shalwar. The traditional footwear of men in KPK is Peshawari chappal which they wear instead of sandals or slippers. With it, the male Pakhtun wears a cap often with a turban around it. The Pakhtun women wear fascinating and sterling silver jewelry.
The people of KPK are very kind-hearted, emphatic, and hospitable. Though they are Pashto speakers still they warmly welcome everyone, even if the guest is from another region and has a different language, pakhtoons will meet and greet them wholeheartedly. All the guests are served the delicious traditional pakhtoon cuisine. Some of the mouthwatering pasthoon dishes are; Dumpukht, kabali palao, chappali kabab and mantu.
I hope you have enjoyed reading the article, should you wish to meet the brave and kind-hearted Pashtoons and try their delicious cuisine visit KPK, Pakistan. Don`t forget to follow and write your comments in the comment box,
