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1.Definition of culture
Pakistani Culture
Q.1. Define Culture and Describe the salient features of
Pakistani Culture. Definition of Culture
Culture may be defined as behaviour 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.
E.B. Taylor defines culture as
the complex whole which include knowledge, belief, art,
morals, law, custom and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a
member of society.
According to Allama Iqbal
Culture encompasses all the mental, spiritual and physical
activities of a nation. It includes teh basic beliefs and faith, values and
literature, art and architecture, music and mode of dress, manners and customs
prevalent in a given society.
Pakistani Culture is an 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 Balochi. 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 trend in their poetry. They gave the
message of love and brotherhood. Similarity of thought amongst poets and
writers of all regions is an important factor of our cultural life.
4. Dress and Diet
Dress is an important menifestation of culture. The regional
dresses of Pakistan under go changes in the light of local traditions, economic
condition, way of living and wealth in the region. But in all Provinces people
generally wear Shalwar Kameez.
5. Mixed Culture
Pakistani culture is mixed culture although majority of
people are Muslims by birth and faith. But there is great influence of Hindus
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 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 Masjid, Shalimar Garden, Badshahi
Masjid, Shahi Qila and many such graceful buildings are a living proof of the
excellent Mughal architecture.
8. Handicrafts
Embroidery, leather works, glazed pottery, wood work, carpet
making, metal crafts and ivory are the essential parts of our culture.
Pakistani craftsmen are considered as the best in their craftsmenship. 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 Cricket, Hockey, Football, 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
syllabus 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. Islamic Rituals and Religious Festivals
Islamic rituals and festivals play an important part of our
culture. The rituals and festivals are observed with unusual enthusiasm.
Obligatory prayers, fasts during the month of Ramadan and the payment of Zakat
prescribed by Islam are being observed almost everywhere. Statistics reveal
that Paksitanis attendance at Hajj is usually very high. The enthusiasm with
which Pakistani families celebrate religious festivals is a inspirational
spectacle. Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha are our two main religious festivals.
They are celebrated with great happiness throughout the country.
13. Ulema, Mushaikh and Sufi Poets
Ulema, Mushaikh and Sufi Poets occupy an honoured place in
our cultural aspect of life. Sufis like Lal Shahbaz, Data Ganj Baksh, Shah
Abdul latif, Sachal Sarmast, Hazrat Sultan Bahu and Waris Shah rendered
meritorious services for the spread of Islam in the Sub Continent.
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