New Microsoft Word Document
New Microsoft Word Document
Culture is an umbrella term which encompasses the social behavior and norms found
in human societies, as well as the knowledge, beliefs, arts, laws, customs, capabilities and
habits of the individuals in these grow .There is diversity in cultures and hundreds of culture
are there in the world. Here we will discuss a few of them.
PAKISTANI CULTURE
If there is a country whose culture is starkly contrasted by its international image, it
has to Pakistan. Pakistan's culture is a melting pot of Indian, Persian, Afghan,
Central Asian, South Asian and Western Asian influences. Some of the
characteristics of Pakistani culture are:
1. Religious Uniformity: Pakistan came into existence to provide its people with a system based on
Islam. The people, in spite of some language differences, customs and traditions commonly follow
one religion. Islam is practiced by all Pakistanis.
2. Language: A number of languages are spoken in Pakistan. Some of them are Punjabi, Sindhi,
Pushto and Baluchi. But Urdu is spoken and understand in all parts of Pakistan. Being the official
language, it is the media of communication between all regions of Pakistan.
3. Literature and Poetry: Literature is an important aspect of our cultural life. Most of our poets
reflect Islamic code and deliver the message of love and brotherhood. A similarity of thought among
poets and writers of all regions is an important factor of our cultural life.Sufi poets occupy an honored
place. Sufis like Lal Shahbaz, Data Ganj Baksh, Shah Abdul Lateef, Sachal Sarmast, Hazrat Sultan
Bahu and Waris Shah rendered meritorious services for the spread of Islam in the subcontinent.
4. Dress and Diet:Dress is an important manifestation of culture. Regional dresses of Pakistan have
undergone changes due to local traditions, economic conditions, and wealth. But in all provinces,
people generally wear the traditional dress by Salwar Kameez.
The food we consume and social etiquette confirms strictly with Islamic principles.
5. Mixed Culture:Pakistani culture is a mixed culture although majority of people are Muslims by
birth and faith. However there is great influence of Hindu and British culture on present Pakistani
society.
6. Male Dominated Society: In Pakistani culture the male member of the family enjoys the key
position. The family is headed by a male member and in most cases , he is the sole source of income
for other members of the family.
7. Arts and Architecture: The iconoclasm of Islam has given a characteristic form and pattern in the
use of elegant designs, based on geometric figures and floral forms borrowed from nature. The Shah
Jahan Mosque, Shalimar Garden, Badshahi Mosque, Shahi Qila and many such graceful buildings are
a living proof of the splendid Mughal architecture.
8. Handicrafts: Embroidery, leather works, glazed pottery, woodwork, carpet making, metal crafts,
and ivory are the essential parts of our culture. Pakistani craftsmen are considered the best in their
craftsmanship. They are known for the high quality works which is very popular in foreign countries.
9. Sports: Games like wrestling, hockey, cricket, football, squash etc are popular in every part of our
country. These games reflect our cultural identity.
10. Education: Pakistan’s educational system plays a vital role in the formation of culture, unity and
solidarity of the nation. Therefore, it is important that the entire curriculum from kindergarten to high
school be placed in accordance with the ideology of Pakistan.
11. Religious Festivals: Festivals play an important part of our culture. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-
Adha are our two main religious festivals. They are celebrated with great happiness throughout the
country.