Pakistan’s Diverse Cultures

Amir Khan Roshan

I recently went on a short and wonderful tour of Lok Virsa Islamabad under the supervision of the Pakistan Studies Department (NUML). It was an exhilarating experience.

Pakistan has unique, rich and distinctive cultures. Diversity is found all over Pakistan because all provinces and regions have their own histories, customs, traditions, rules and lifestyles.

When we entered Lok Virsa along with the faculty members and students, we heard melodious voices of renowned singers, singing in their own languages. The sounds were mesmerizing, to say the least.

We were welcomed in a unique traditional way, which reflected perfect decorum, zeal, and zest. There were also many stalls around us, displaying artifacts and handicrafts from different pars of the country. Food, traditional attire and other beautiful ornaments unique to various cultures were also used to increase attraction of the stalls.

Interestingly, the students (us) were divided into different groups, in such a manner that each group consisted of a Punjabi, Sindhi, Pakhtun, Baloch, Kashmiri and Gilgiti, or Balti. Each student was assigned to explain and interpret elements of his or her culture. We spent three hours at the festival, but the impact is still alive in our hearts.

We are fortunate to live in a country enriched with so many cultures, languages, civilizations and histories. From the high mountains to the plains and the shores, Pakistan is blessed with beauty. We need to learn to celebrate our diverse and continue to live in harmony.