Pakistan, a multi-ethnic country situated on the western border of India and the eastern borders of Iran and Afghanistan, has a diverse cultural landscape shaped by its rich history of conquest and migration. With significant variations in norms, values, and practices across the country, Pakistan can be best described as a cultural mosaic where conservatism, traditionalism, secularism, and liberalism coexist.
The national identity of Pakistan is heavily influenced by its recent history. The country emerged as a separate nation in 1947, gaining independence from British rule and separating from India during the Partition. The formation of Pakistan attracted millions of immigrants from India, and since then, the country has undergone constant negotiations of space and identity. These negotiations have led to significant changes, such as the secession of East Pakistan, which became Bangladesh.
Pakistan’s geographical position has exposed it to the consequences of surrounding conflicts, and the political climate has fluctuated depending on shifts in power. The ideologies and leanings of national leaders have played a significant role in shaping the social atmosphere. However, contemporary world events have also exacerbated differences between different lifestyles and cultures, leading to inter-religious tensions, ethnic conflicts, and terrorism.
Culture:
Pakistan’s culture is ever-evolving, and its people have had to be adaptable and resilient in the face of an unstable past century. The country also has a large young population, with an estimated 53.3% of the population being under 25 as of 2016. The demographic shifts and turbulent politics have resulted in minimal social security for the average Pakistani citizen, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, resilience, and self-reliance.
Collectivism and interdependence are prominent in Pakistani culture, where people rely on social connections for support and opportunities. The concept of “wasta,” or relationship forming, plays a crucial role in completing professional, personal, and social tasks. Rather than relying on government institutions, Pakistanis often turn to close friends or relatives for assistance, creating a strong sense of community.
Family holds significant importance in Pakistani society, with individuals often prioritizing their family’s interests over their own. Loyalty to relatives is deeply ingrained, and in return for this loyalty, individuals gain a sense of belonging, protection, and unity.
Ethnic Identity
While some Pakistanis primarily identify themselves as Pakistani, particularly those in urban areas, others, particularly in rural regions, feel a stronger affiliation to their ethnic identity. Ethnic pride often surpasses national loyalty in these cases.
Punjabies: Pakistan is home to various ethnicities, each with its own distinct culture and values. The Punjabis, the largest ethnic group, hold influential positions in the bureaucracy and armed forces and are considered the privileged ethnicity due to extensive government funding and development in the Punjab province. Punjabi culture is open, adaptable, and influenced by Sufism.
Pakhtuns, originating from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are known for their resilience and trading skills.
Sindhis, They exhibit hospitality and a strong work ethic, often going to great lengths to please guests of any background. Sindhis, from the southern province of Sindh, have an ancient culture influenced by Sufi teachings and folklore traditions.
Muhajirs, a diverse group of immigrants who arrived in Pakistan during the Partition, generally prioritize their local community over their ethnic roots. Balochis, indigenous to Balochistan, have a distinct cultural identity influenced by tribal law.
An overarching value in Pakistani culture is the concept of honor, known as “izzat.” Personal actions and associations can affect an individual’s honor, and there is a cultural pressure to protect one’s reputation and the image of their family, community, or group. Perceptions of dishonor can lead to social ostracization, impacting future opportunities. Criticism is rarely given directly, and praise is often offered generously.
