What is culture like in Pakistan?

Pakistan is rich in traditions and customs, and has long been a melting-pot for an array of ethnic groups and cultures. The country is geographically positioned at the meeting point of 4 major cultural areas: the Middle-East, Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent and the Far-East. 

These different influences can be seen in the cultural norms and practices across the country, and can be tasted in Pak cuisine, with the country’s regional specialities reflecting the variety found across the country.

Hospitality is an integral part of Pakistan culture, with the best possible food being served for guests, always following a cup of delicious tea, of course. Tea is drank multiple times every day, is offered to all guests and most families have their own recipe.

Food is traditionally eaten communally, sat on large colourful cushions called toshak placed around a low table called a sandali. From kebabs and palaw to marinated meats and fruit, a variety of special dishes are prepared throughout the year. Whether during religious celebrations or festivals, or at engagements and weddings, there is always an excuse to eat well.

It is whilst listening to music when the various linguistic, ethnic and regional cultural traditions of Pakistan are perhaps the most prominent. Folk music from the southern Pashtun regions, that come in the poetic form of a landay, composed of nine and thirteen-syllable lines, contrast with the Dari four-line chahar baiti form traditionally found in the West. Fused together with western-influences with the foundation of Radio Pakistan in 1951, a nation-wide Pak style of music began to form. It was this era that produced internationally famous Pakistan artists such as Mehdi Hassan, and later Noor Jahan.

   

Want to learn more about Pakistan culture?

  • Learn about Pak greetings;
  • Read all about the festivals and celebrations marked in Pakistan
  • Need some dinner party inspiration? Get a taste of Pakistan with our Pak recipe book
  • Want to be in-the-know about Afghan Dance and Music? Watch the recording of our live conversation with Pashto and Punjabi Music & Dance experts!
  • Wondering if Pakistan is in the Middle-East?

We are working to achieve a peaceful and thriving

Pakistan

Every day, our dedicated staff are on the ground providing life-saving support and long-term solutions for vulnerable communities. We need committed help to continue this work.

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