Salient Features of Pakistani Culture
DEFINITION OF
CULTURE
Culture may be defined as behavior peculiar
to human beings, together with material objects used. Culture consists of
language, ideas, beliefs, customs, codes, institution, tools, techniques, works
of arts, ceremonies and so on. According to Allama Iqbal:
“Culture encompasses all the mental, Spiritual and Physical activities
of a Nation. It includes the basic beliefs and faith, values and literature, a
art and architecture, music and mode of dress, manners and
customs prevalent in a given Society.”
PAKISTANI
CULTURE IS A ISLAMIC CULTURE
Pakistan is an ideological Islamic
State. Its very existence is due to Islam, so the Pakistani culture is
primarily based on the Islamic way of life. All other ingredients of culture
are inspired by Islam. Pakistani culture is highlighted by its grandeur, simplicity,
firm convictions and noble deeds and ideas.
SALIENT
FEATURES OF PAKISTANI CULTURE
The main characteristics of Pakistani
culture are as follows:
1. Religious
Uniformity
Pakistan came into existence to
provide its people a system of life based on Islam. The people, in spite of
some differences of languages, customs and traditions commonly follow one
religion of Islam. This is the religion, which is practiced by all people of
Pakistan.
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. Litterateur
and Poetry
Literature is an important aspects of
our cultural life. Most of our poets reflect Islamic code and trend in their
poetry. They gave the message of love and brotherhood. Similarity of thoughts
amongst poets and writers of all regions is an important factor of our cultural
life.
4. Dress and
Diet
Dress is an important manifestation
of culture. The regional dresses of Pakistan under go changes in the light of
local traditions, economic conditions, way of living and wealth in the region. But
in all provinces people generally wear Shalwar Qameez.
Our eating habits, foods and social etiquette
are strictly in conformity with Islamic principles.
5. Mixed
Culture
Pakistani culture is a mixed culture
although majority of people are Muslims by birth and faith .But there is great
influence of Hindu and British culture on the present Pakistani society.
6. Male Dominated
Society
In Pakistani culture the male member
of the family enjoys the key position. Family is headed by a male member and in
most cases, he is the soul sources 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 Masjid,
Shalimar Garden, Badshahi Masjid, Shahi Qila and many such graceful buildings
are a living proof of the exellent Mughal architecture.
8. Handicrafts
Embroidery, Leather works, glazed
pottery, wood work, carpet making, metal crafts, ivory are the essential parts
of our culture. Pakistani craftsmen are considered as the best in their craftsmanship.
They are known for the high quality works which is very popular in foreign
countries.
9. Recreational
Activities-Sports
The recreational activities all over
the Pakistan are common. The games like wrestling, hockey, cricket, football,
squash, Kabaddi etc are popular in every part of our country. These games
reflect our cultural identity.
10. Education
Education contributes a great deal in
developing national character. Educational system plays a vital role in the
formation of culture, unity and solidarity of a nation. it is, therefore, important
that the entire syllabi right from the lower to higher level should be placed
in accordance with the ideology of Pakistan.
11. Religious
Festivals
Festivals play an important part of
our culture. Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha are our two main religious festivals
.They are celebrated with great happiness throughout the country.
12. Ulema, Mushaikh
and Sufi Poets
Ulema, Mashaikh and Sufi Poets occupy
an honoured place in our cultural aspect of life. 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 Sub
Continent.
CONCLUSION
Culture which includes religion, literature
art, architecture, dresses, music, manners and customs has its roots in the
Islamic culture. Islam has described the rights and duties of every individual.
Even in drinking, eating and dressing, we have to observe certain rules
prescribed by Islam. So it may be said that Pakistani culture represents the
true picture of Islamic culture.
0 comments :
Post a Comment