Pashtuns Culture

Pashtun Culture
Introduction
Pashtun culture, rich in history and tradition, is a vibrant tapestry woven
from the threads of language, art, music, and social customs. Predominantly
found in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Pashtun people, also known as
Pathans, have a heritage that spans centuries, deeply rooted in the values of
honor, hospitality, and resilience.
Central to Pashtun identity is the Pashto language, which serves as a vehicle

for the poetry and folklore that encapsulate their collective experiences and
aspirations. The cultural practices of the Pashtuns are characterized by a
strong sense of community, where tribal affiliations play a crucial role in
social organization and governance, often guided by the Pashtunwali code, a
set of ethical principles emphasizing honor, justice, and mutual aid.
Celebrations such as weddings, festivals, and traditional music events reflect
the Pashtuns’ deep appreciation for art and community bonding. Their
intricate handicrafts, including carpets and embroidery, showcase the skill
and creativity inherent in their culture. As we delve deeper into the
multifaceted aspects of Pashtun culture, we uncover not only a rich legacy
but also the dynamic adaptations that continue to shape the identity of the
Pashtun people in the modern world.
1: Pashtunwali ( The way of life of the

pashtuns)
Pashtunwali is the traditional code of conduct that governs the behavior of
the Pashtun people. It encompasses a set of principles that dictate social
interactions and moral responsibilities. Key points of pashtunwali are as
follows:
Nang (Honor): Honor is paramount in Pashtun culture. Individuals are

expected to defend their honor and that of their family. With honor there is
another thing which we call (PEGHOOR) “taunt” which ruined the pashtuns.
Badal (Revenge):
Badal refers to the concept of revenge in Pashtun culture, rooted in the moral
code of Pashtunwali. It embodies the idea of seeking retribution for wrongs
done to an individual or their family, viewed as essential for restoring honor
and dignity.
When someone is wronged, the affected party often feels compelled to take
action to reclaim their honor, which can involve retaliatory measures. This
pursuit of revenge can sometimes create cycles of retaliation, where one act
of vengeance leads to another, perpetuating conflicts across generations.
Melmastia (Hospitality): Hospitality is a sacred duty. Guests are

treated with the utmost respect and care, regardless of their background.
Tureh (Bravery): Courage is valued, and individuals are expected to

stand up for their rights and their community.
2. Jirga
The jirga is a traditional assembly of elders used for decision making and
conflict resolution. Key aspects of jirga are as follows:
Composition: Typically composed of respected elders from the

community or tribe.
Function: The jirga settles disputes, makes collective decisions, and

enforces communal norms. It embodies democratic principles and
community consensus.
Authority: While not formalized, the decisions made by a jirga carry

significant weight and are respected by the community.
3. Family Structure
Pashtun society is largely patriarchal, with strong family ties.
Extended Families: Families often live in extended groups,

encompassing multiple generations. This structure provides support and
social cohesion.
Role of Women: womens historically were not just limited to household

works they were considered as equal partners of mens but unfortunately
after the extremist wave of Islam they were limited to just manage the
household within their familial roles, further their public presence are limited
in some areas.
4. Language and Literature

Pashto is the primary language spoken by Pashtuns, rich in poetry and
folklore. Key points include:
Poetry: Pashto poetry is an essential cultural expression, often exploring

themes of love, honor, and nature. Notable poets include Khushal Khan
Khattak and Ghani Khan.
Proverbs and Folklore: Oral traditions are prevalent, with proverbs

that reflect moral lessons and cultural values.
5. Music and Dance

Music and dance are integral to Pashtun celebrations.
Instruments: Traditional instruments include the rubab, dhol, and

harmonium Music often accompanies social gatherings and ceremonies.
Dance: The Attan is a traditional dance performed at weddings and

festivals, characterized by energetic movements and communal
participation. Attan historically is a sign of resistance. Before the war the
pashtuns performs Attan because it makes them energetic for the war.
6. Cuisine
Pashtun cuisine is diverse and flavorful, featuring.
Staple Dishes: Common dishes include kabuli pulao (rice with meat and
raisins), mantu(dumplings), Rosh, and various meat-based curries. We the
people of Waziristan prepare a dish which we call “LARMIN” we boil the meat
in water and then prepare it in oil and onions.
Tea Culture: Green tea is a staple beverage, often served with sugar and
cardamom. It plays a vital role in hospitality.
7. Festivals
Pashtuns celebrate various festivals in a year.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: Major Islamic holidays marked by

prayers, feasting, and community gatherings.
Nawruz (Persian New Year): Celebrated on March 21, it marks the

arrival of spring with cultural events, music, and traditional foods.
8. Traditional Dress
Pashtun attire reflects cultural identity and regional variations.
Men's Clothing: The shalwar kameez, often paired with a pakol (a type
of hat), is standard. Men may also wear a chadar(shawl) for warmth.
Women's Clothing: Women wear colorful dresses, often adorned with

embroidery. The chadar (headscarf) is common, symbolizing modesty.
Because Iam a Wazir from North Waziristan, I would like to talk about The
waziri women’s. The waziri women’s wears “GANR KHAT” which is not only a
dress for them but it is considered as the protection of women’s from all the
evils. Mens cannot even just look at those womens who wears this GANR
KHAT.
9. Art and Craftsmanship

Pashtun artisans are known for their craftsmanship.
Carpet Weaving: Handwoven rugs featuring intricate patterns and

designs are a significant aspect of Pashtun art.
Embroidery and Pottery: Decorative pottery and embroidered

textiles showcase the artistic skills of Pashtun women.
10. Religion
Islam is the predominant religion among Pashtuns, deeply influencing their
cultural practices:
Sunni Islam: Most Pashtuns are Sunni Muslims, and their daily life is
guided by Islamic principles.
Cultural Practices: Religious observances, such as daily prayers and

fasting during Ramadan, are integral to community life.

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Pashtun Culture

Central to Pashtun identity is the Pashto language, which serves as a vehicle

1: Pashtunwali ( The way of life of the

Nang (Honor): Honor is paramount in Pashtun culture. Individuals are

Melmastia (Hospitality): Hospitality is a sacred duty. Guests are

Tureh (Bravery): Courage is valued, and individuals are expected to

Composition: Typically composed of respected elders from the

Function: The jirga settles disputes, makes collective decisions, and

Authority: While not formalized, the decisions made by a jirga carry

Extended Families: Families often live in extended groups,

Role of Women: womens historically were not just limited to household

4. Language and Literature

Poetry: Pashto poetry is an essential cultural expression, often exploring

Proverbs and Folklore: Oral traditions are prevalent, with proverbs

5. Music and Dance

Instruments: Traditional instruments include the rubab, dhol, and

Dance: The Attan is a traditional dance performed at weddings and

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: Major Islamic holidays marked by

Nawruz (Persian New Year): Celebrated on March 21, it marks the

Women's Clothing: Women wear colorful dresses, often adorned with

9. Art and Craftsmanship

Carpet Weaving: Handwoven rugs featuring intricate patterns and

Embroidery and Pottery: Decorative pottery and embroidered

Cultural Practices: Religious observances, such as daily prayers and

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