Punjabi Culture

Culture The word kitchen-gardeninghas many contrastive meanings. For some it refers to an appreciation of good books, medication, art, and foodHowever, for anthropologists and other behavioral scientists, gloss is the full range of learned dry flat coat behavior patterns. The term was inaugural expenditured in this way by the pioneer English Anthropologist Edward B. Tylor in his book,Primitive Culture,published in 1871. Tylor said that goal is that complex upstanding which includes knowledge, belief, art, law, morals, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a division of nightclub. Of course, it is not limited to men. Women possess and create it as swell uphead. Since Tylors time, the concept of finis has become the central focus of anthropology. Culture is a powerful pitying tool for survival, but it is a fragile phenomenon. It is constantly changing and intimately lost beca hold it exists only in our minds. Our scripted languages, governm ents, buildings, and other man-made things argon merely the products of culture. They argon not culture in themselves. For this reason,archeologist deal not dig up culture directly in their excavations.The down(p) pots and other artifacts of ancient deal that they uncover ar only tangible remains that reflect ethnical patterns they be things that were made and apply with pagan knowledge and skills. Pakistani culture Pakistan has a rich cultural diversity as the parliamentary law is whackingly multilingual, multi-ethnic and multicultural. The Pakistani society comprises various versatile cultures and ethnic communities that majorly involve Punjabi, Sindhi, Baloch, Pashtun, Seraiki, Mohair, Kashmiri, Makrani, and the ancient Wakhi and Burusho throngs in the north.These Pakistani cultures realize been greatly modeld by many of the surrounding countries cultures, such as theTurkic man-sized publication,Persian, Arab and other South Asian ethnic Asian base of theSubco ntinent,Central Asia and the Middle East. Pakistan is in general linguistically heterogeneous, and no superstar language pile be said to be putting green to the hearty population. Each of its principal languages has a strong regional focus. The languages claimed as yield tongue include Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi, Seraiki, Kashmiri, Brahui, Hindko and Potohohari.Urdu is the national language and one of two authorized languages of Pakistan (the other being English). Although only about 8% of Pakistanis speak it as their commencement language, it is spoken as a second and often terce language by al or so all citizens of Pakistan. Pakistan is a special gratify destination as its main attraction includes adventure tourism in the Northern Areas, cultural and archaeological tourism as found at Taxila, Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa and Swat, and early Mughal and Muslim heritage of Multan, Lahore, Thatta and Peshawar.From the mighty Karakorams in the North to the wide alluvial delta of the Indus River in the South, Pakistan remains a overturn full of adventures and subjective beauties having peaceful general masses. The enthusiasm for poetry exists at a regional level as well, with nearly all of Pakistans provincial languages continuing the legacy. rime is a highly respected art in Pakistan. Since the independence of the verdant in 1947 and establishment of Urdu as the national language, poetry is roughlyly allay in the Urdu as well as regional languages. The Urdu language has a rich tradition of poetry and Dr.Allama Muhammad Iqbal is regarded as the National Poet of Pakistan. Apart from Urdu poetry, Pakistani poetry also has blends of other regional languages. Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, Seraiki, and Pashto poetry permit all incorporated and do lived Pakistani poetry. The variety of Pakistani practice of medicine ranges from versatile provincial fellowship music and traditional styles such as Qawwali and Ghazal Gayeki to new(a)-day forms fus ing traditional and western music, such as the synchronization of Qawwali and western music by the conception renowned Nusrat Fateh Ali caravan inn.In addition, Pakistan is home to many notable ethnic music singers such as the late Alam Lohar, who is also well- cognize in the Indian Punjab. Folk dances atomic number 18 still popular in Pakistan and they vary fit to region. The folk dances of Punjab atomic number 18 Bhangra, Luddi and Sammi, while Jhoomar is the folk dance of Seraiki region. Lewa and Chap ar the just about popular folk dances of Balochistan. The folk dances of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa argon Attan, Khattak dance and Chitrali dance. charm Dhammal and Ho Jamalo be the popular folk dances nighly performed in Sindh. Although Western-style fit out is worn in Pakistan, the national dress, shalwar-qameez, is much everyday in two distinct and urban aras. Made of cotton, the shalwar-qameez differs for men and women. Men wear solid, champaign colour, and add a coa t for formal do. For women, the colours atomic number 18 brighter and patterns bolder, with much tailoring common. Women wear a dupatta (scarf) around their heads and some clock another capacious scarf around their shoulders. Men only wear shorts for athletic events and women never do. A handshake is the most common greeting, although close friends whitethorn embrace if meeting after a desire time.It is not fascinate for a man to shake hands with a woman. A backup and last name ar apply when addressing someone. Visiting between friends and relatives is a very serious social custom and occurs as often as possible. Hospitality is fundamental and guests argon made to feel welcome. In nice groups, each person is greeted individually. Personal rapport is important. The family is the centre of social career and support. Although increased modernisation has brought many women into public carriage, the antheral continues to reign as head of the home.It is common for the ex tended family, a father and niggle, their sons, and the sons family to live together in the same household. The presiding manlike of the family has signifi empennaget influence over the lives of all family particles, although women are more and more taking on brisk decision making roles. The elderly are highly respected. Pakistani culinary art is as diverse as its people. Pakistani diet, whereas vegetables and beans are as important. The gumption of the Pakistani diet is chapati or roti. Pakistani food is slackly hot and spicy.Rice is part of most meals and desserts. Tea is the most popular drink. spirit plays a much more dominant role in Pakistani food, compared to other South Asian cuisines. Of all the gists, the most popular are mutton, and chicken. Beef is also eaten, and is particularly sought after as the center of choice for Kabab dishes. Punjabi culture Punjabi Cultureis the culture of thePunjab region. It is one of the oldest in world history, dating from ancient antiquity to the modern era. The Punjabi culture is the culture of thePunjabi peoplewho are now distributed hroughout the world. The scope, history, sophistication and complexity of the culture are capacious. some(a) of the main areas include Punjabi Philosophy, poetry, spirituality, education, art sketch, music, cuisine, science, technology, military warfare, architecture, traditions, values and history. Due to the giving human body of Punjabi pile distributed byout the world, especiallyPakistanandIndia, many people are increasingly experiencing the culture and adequate influenced by it. Traditional Punjabi culture is being fortify and expanded in theWestern world. the scope is huge, ranging from Punjabi Philosophy, poetry, spirituality, education, artistic production, music, cuisine, architecture etc. concourse of various languages, cultures, customs and races came to Punjab for various reasons. These immigrants influenced and were influenced by Punjabi culture. Punjabi Literature Punjabi booksrefers to literary works written in thePunjabi languageparticularly by peoples from the diachronicPunjab region. The Punjabi language is written in some(prenominal) different scripts, of which theShahmukhi, theGurmukhiscripts are the most commonly apply.The early punjabi literature whereabouts heap be chancen in the Sufi poetry of Fariduddin Ganjshakar. After which Punjabi Sufi poetry developed underShah Hussainsultan Bahu,Shah Sharaf, Ali Haider, Saleh muhammad safoori andBulleh Shah. In contrast to Persian poets, who had preferred theghazalfor poetic expression, Punjabi Sufi poets tended to frame in theKafi. Punjabi meter is renowned for its deep meaning, beautiful, exciting and hopeful use of words. The round number of Punjabi poetry works are being translated universal in many languages.ThePunjabi languageis also noted for its rich literature ofqisse, most of the which are about come, passion, betrayal, sacrifice, social values and a common m ans revolt against a wide-rangingr system. In the Punjabi tradition, friendship, loyalty, grapple are given utmost importance and most of the stories in theqisseare based on such elements. Waris Shahs qissaof Heer Ranjha is among the most famous Qisse of all measure which is one of the four popular tragic romances of Punjab. The other three are Mirza Sahiba,Sassi PunnunandSohni Mahiwal The most popular writer/poet to affirm writtenPunjabi SufiQissewasBulleh Shah. He is oftentimes quoted by young and old a analogous with same respect and on matters of twain love and God. Punjabi Architecture Punjabi architecture is the feast for eyes. Punjab is bestowed with worth eyesight architecture all around. The oldest examples of architecture sculpture and painting in the Punjab kick the bucket to the Harappa civilization. The breathtaking architecture include * Badshahi Mosque is a famous landmark and a major holidaymaker attraction. Badshai masjid was built by sixth mughal emperor moth moth Aurengzeb in 1671 and completed in 1673.It is the second doublest masjid in Pakistan and one- twenty percent largest in the world. * Taxilais a town and an importantarchaeologicalsite in theDistrict of thePunjabprovince inPakistan. The site includes buildings, fortifications, settlements, showing architectural influence. * TheWazir caravansary MosqueinLahore,Pakistan, is famous for its extensive faiencetile work. It has been described as a mole on the cheek of Lahore. It was built in seven years, offset around 16341635 AD, during the reign of theMughal EmperorShah Jehan. Rohtas Fortis a historical place fort built by kingFarid caravanserai, located near the urban center of JheluminPakistan. This fort is about 4km in electric circuit and the first example of the successful amalgamation of Pashtun and Hindu architecture in theIndian Subcontinent. * TheKhewra Salt Mineis located inKhewra, north ofPind Dadan caravan inn, an administrative subdivision ofJhelum District ,Punjab, Pakistan. It is Pakistans largest and oldest salt mineand the worlds second largest. It is a major tourer attraction. Punjab arts and craftPunjab has a rich tradition of arts and crafts. The richness of the land is reflected in its handicraft. The people of Punjab lay much importance on their artistry and the minute details of their work. The artistic creations of Punjab are acclaimed all over the world. The arch(prenominal) and dexterous artisans of the state produce a variety of handicrafts and even the homespun women watch a major contribution in the production of these intrigue art works. Mud work Mud work is a famous rural practice in Punjab, prevalent from the ancient times.It is a write out in Punjab to mud-plaster the walls of the house and then, create motifs and designs on the mudded walls. Metal work metalworking is also very popular in Punjab. Utensils made of metals are employ in households, as also for religious purposes. Basketry work Thin straws of grump are used for basketry works, which is another Punjabi craft that is coarsely popular. Mats, rugs, carpets, curtains and hand fans are woven using these straws. Embroidery Embroidery is another extensively followed work of art, know in the state by various local names.Phulkari, an mixed needle work, is extremely popular and is mainly taken up by village girls. Juttis of Punjab Punjabi juttis represent the traditional footwear of Punjab, which is known worldwide for its elegant design and heterogeneous pattern. Punjab festivals Punjab is well known for its festivals which include Urs The fairs held at the shrines ofSufisaints are calledurs. They slackly mark the death anniversary of the saint. On these do devotees assemble in large numbers and pay homage to the retrospect of the saint.Soul inspiring music is played and devotees dance in The most important urs are urs of DataGanj BukshatLahore, urs of Hazrat grand Turk BahuatJhang, urs of HazratShah JewnaatJhang, urs of Ha zratMian Mirat Lahore, urs ofBaba FaridGanj Shakar atPakpattan, urs of HazratBahaudin ZakriaatMultan, urs ofSakhi Sarwar SultanatDera Ghazi Khan, urs ofShah Hussainat Lahore, urs of HazratBulleh ShahatKasur, urs of Hazratimam Bari(Bari Shah Latif) atRawalpindi-Islamabad and urs ofShah Inayar Qadri(the murrshad ofBulleh Shah) in Lahore.A big fair/mela is organized atJandiala Sher Khanin districtSheikhupuraon the Mausoleum of SyedWaris Shahwho is the most loved Sufi poet of Punjab delinquent to his claasic work known asHeer Ranjha. The shrine ofHeer RanjhainJhanghas been one of the most visited shrines in Punjabecstasy. The music on these occasions is essentially folk and appealing. It forms a part of the folk music through mystic messages. Industrial and moneymaking(prenominal) fairs Exhibitions and Annual Horse argues in all Districts and National Horse and cows take at Lahore are held with the appointed patronage.National Horse and oxen Show at Lahore is the biggest festival where sports, exhibitions, and livestock competitions are held. It not only encourages and patronizes boorish products and livestock through the exhibitions of inelegant products and cattle but is also a colourful documentary on the rich cultural heritage of the responsibility with its strong rural roots. Other festivals In addition to the religious festivals, Punjabis whitethorn celebrate seasonal and harvest festivals, which includeLohri,Basant,BaisakhiandTeej. Punjabi CuisinePunjabi cuisine has an extensive range of dishes and has become world-leader in the field so much so that many entrepreneurs that have invested in the sector have built large fortunes out-of-pocket to popularity of Punjabi cuisine throughout the world. Sarso ka sag and Maki ki roti are examples of well known dishes. Punjabi cuisine can be non-vegetarian or completely vegetarian. domicil cooked and Punjabi cuisine can vary significantly, with restaurant style using large amount of ghee, clarified butter, with home cooking concentrating on mainly upon preparations with self-colored wheat, rice and other ingredients flavored with masala.Within the Punjab region, there are different preferences. People in the area of Lahore prefer stuffed parathas and milk products. In fact, the area is well known for quality of its milk products. The main masala in a Punjabi dish consists of onion, ail and ginger. Tandoori food is a Punjabi specialty for non-vegetarian dishes. Tandoor, Naan, Pakoras and vegetable dishes with paneer are also derived from Punjab. Punjabi medicinal drug Bhangra is of the many Punjabi art forms that is increasingly being listened to in the west and is meet a mainstream favorite.Punjabi music is being used by western musicians, in many ways, such as mixing it with other compositions to produce award-winning music. In addition, Punjabi Classical music is increasingly becoming popular in the west. Punjabi music has a diverse style of music, ranging from folk and Sufi to classical, notably the Patiala Gharana. Folk music of Punjab is the traditional music of Punjab produced using the traditional instruments the likes of Tumbi, Algoze, Dhadd, Sarangi, Chimta and more. Sufi music includes the singing of Sufi poetry in several(prenominal) genres. whatever of the poets whose compositions are often sung include Baba Farid, Bulleh Shah, Shah Husain, Waris Shah and Mian Muhammad Bakhsh. Classical music includes Patiala Gharana and take for granted Chaurasia Gharana. Punjabi Dances Owing to the long history of the Punjabi culture there is a large number of dances, normally performed at times of celebration, including harvests, festivals and wedding. The particular background of the dances can be non-religious and religious. The overall style can range from the high competency Bhangra mens dance to the more reserved Jhumar, the Gidha womens dance.Punjabi dances are an array of folk and religious dances of the Punjabi people indigenous to the Punjabi religi on, straddling the border of India and Pakistan. At times of celebration everyone is encouraged to dance. Married Punjabi couples usually dance together. The hubby dances in the style of male Punjabi dances, frequently with arms raised and the wife dances in the style of female Punjabi dances. Common Punjabi Folk Dances for Females * Sammi * Giddha * Jaago * Kikli * Luddi Common Punjabi Dances for Males * Bhangra * Jhumar * Gatka * Jalli * Dhamal * Dankara Khatka (Sword Dance) Punjabi habilitate Basically Punjabi dress is simple and easy to use. One can suck in a variety in the dresses. The people of Punjab wear tally to their traditions. incompatible dresses are used in rural and urban areas. The Punjabi dresses fulfill the requirements of modality and religion. Turban or a cap is a part of Punjabi dress. The male members of the rural society wear Dhoti, Kurta and Turban. The female members like to wear Shalwar, Kurta and Dupatta some(prenominal) in rural and urban area s. Shalwar, shirt, coat and pant are used in the urban areas by the men. The Western dress has greatly influenced the urban areas.The dress is prepared to fulfill the requirements of pardah. Special dress is prepared f or the bride at the time of her marriage. Punjabi wedding Traditions Punjabi wedding traditions and ceremonies are traditionally conducted in Punjabi and are a strong reflection of Punjabi culture. succession the worldly religious marriage ceremony among Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains may be conducted in Arabic, Punjabi, Sanskrit, by the Qazi, Pundit, Granthi or Priest, there are commonalities in ritual, song, dance, food, dress. The Punjabi wedding has many rituals and ceremonies that have evolved since traditional times.Punjabi CultureCulture The word culturehas many different meanings. For some it refers to an appreciation of good literature, music, art, and foodHowever, for anthropologists and other behavioral scientists,culture is the full range of learne d human behavior patterns. The term was first used in this way by the pioneer English Anthropologist Edward B. Tylor in his book,Primitive Culture,published in 1871. Tylor said that culture is that complex social unit which includes knowledge, belief, art, law, morals, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society. Of course, it is not limited to men. Women possess and create it as well. Since Tylors time, the concept of culture has become the central focus of anthropology. Culture is a powerful human tool for survival, but it is a fragile phenomenon. It is constantly changing and considerably lost because it exists only in our minds. Our written languages, governments, buildings, and other man-made things are merely the products of culture. They are not culture in themselves. For this reason,archeologist can not dig up culture directly in their excavations.The busted pots and other artifacts of ancient people that they uncover are only mat erial remains that reflect cultural patterns they are things that were made and used through cultural knowledge and skills. Pakistani culture Pakistan has a rich cultural diversity as the society is largely multilingual, multi-ethnic and multicultural. The Pakistani society comprises various diverse cultures and ethnic communities that majorly involve Punjabi, Sindhi, Baloch, Pashtun, Seraiki, Mohair, Kashmiri, Makrani, and the ancient Wakhi and Burusho groups in the north.These Pakistani cultures have been greatly influenced by many of the surrounding countries cultures, such as theTurkic people,Persian, Arab and other South Asian ethnic Asian group of theSubcontinent,Central Asia and the Middle East. Pakistan is in general linguistically heterogeneous, and no case-by-case language can be said to be common to the totally population. Each of its principal languages has a strong regional focus. The languages claimed as mother tongue include Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi, S eraiki, Kashmiri, Brahui, Hindko and Potohohari.Urdu is the national language and one of two official languages of Pakistan (the other being English). Although only about 8% of Pakistanis speak it as their first language, it is spoken as a second and often triad language by almost all citizens of Pakistan. Pakistan is a special arouse destination as its main attraction includes adventure tourism in the Northern Areas, cultural and archaeological tourism as found at Taxila, Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa and Swat, and early Mughal and Muslim heritage of Multan, Lahore, Thatta and Peshawar.From the mighty Karakorams in the North to the vast alluvial delta of the Indus River in the South, Pakistan remains a land full of adventures and native beauties having peaceful general masses. The enthusiasm for poetry exists at a regional level as well, with nearly all of Pakistans provincial languages continuing the legacy. Poetry is a highly respected art in Pakistan. Since the independence of the u ncouth in 1947 and establishment of Urdu as the national language, poetry is mostly written in the Urdu as well as regional languages. The Urdu language has a rich tradition of poetry and Dr.Allama Muhammad Iqbal is regarded as the National Poet of Pakistan. Apart from Urdu poetry, Pakistani poetry also has blends of other regional languages. Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, Seraiki, and Pashto poetry have all incorporated and influenced Pakistani poetry. The variety of Pakistani music ranges from diverse provincial folk music and traditional styles such as Qawwali and Ghazal Gayeki to modern forms fusing traditional and western music, such as the synchronization of Qawwali and western music by the world renowned Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.In addition, Pakistan is home to many famous folk singers such as the late Alam Lohar, who is also well-known in the Indian Punjab. Folk dances are still popular in Pakistan and they vary according to region. The folk dances of Punjab are Bhangra, Luddi and S ammi, while Jhoomar is the folk dance of Seraiki region. Lewa and Chap are the most popular folk dances of Balochistan. The folk dances of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are Attan, Khattak dance and Chitrali dance. While Dhammal and Ho Jamalo are the popular folk dances mostly performed in Sindh. Although Western-style wearable is worn in Pakistan, the national dress, shalwar-qameez, is more common in both rural and urban areas. Made of cotton, the shalwar-qameez differs for men and women. Men wear solid, plain colour, and add a coat for formal occasions. For women, the colours are brighter and patterns bolder, with more tailoring common. Women wear a dupatta (scarf) around their heads and sometimes another long scarf around their shoulders. Men only wear shorts for athletic events and women never do. A handshake is the most common greeting, although close friends may embrace if meeting after a long time.It is not hold for a man to shake hands with a woman. A title and last name are used when addressing someone. Visiting between friends and relatives is a very important social custom and occurs as often as possible. Hospitality is important and guests are made to feel welcome. In half-size groups, each person is greeted individually. Personal rapport is important. The family is the centre of social life and support. Although increased modernisation has brought many women into public life, the male continues to reign as head of the home.It is common for the extended family, a father and mother, their sons, and the sons family to live together in the same household. The presiding male of the family has significant influence over the lives of all family members, although women are increasingly taking on brisk decision making roles. The elderly are highly respected. Pakistani cuisine is as diverse as its people. Pakistani diet, whereas vegetables and beans are as important. The rachis of the Pakistani diet is chapati or roti. Pakistani food is generally hot and spicy.Ric e is part of most meals and desserts. Tea is the most popular drink. kernel plays a much more dominant role in Pakistani food, compared to other South Asian cuisines. Of all the meats, the most popular are mutton, and chicken. Beef is also eaten, and is particularly sought after as the meat of choice for Kabab dishes. Punjabi culture Punjabi Cultureis the culture of thePunjab region. It is one of the oldest in world history, dating from ancient antiquity to the modern era. The Punjabi culture is the culture of thePunjabi peoplewho are now distributed hroughout the world. The scope, history, sophistication and complexity of the culture are vast. Some of the main areas include Punjabi Philosophy, poetry, spirituality, education, artistry, music, cuisine, science, technology, military warfare, architecture, traditions, values and history. Due to the large number of Punjabi People distributed throughout the world, especiallyPakistanandIndia, many people are increasingly experiencing th e culture and becoming influenced by it. Traditional Punjabi culture is being modify and expanded in theWestern world. the scope is huge, ranging from Punjabi Philosophy, poetry, spirituality, education, artistry, music, cuisine, architecture etc. People of different languages, cultures, customs and races came to Punjab for various reasons. These immigrants influenced and were influenced by Punjabi culture. Punjabi Literature Punjabi literaturerefers to literary works written in thePunjabi languageparticularly by peoples from the historicalPunjab region. The Punjabi language is written in several different scripts, of which theShahmukhi, theGurmukhiscripts are the most commonly used.The early punjabi literature whereabouts can be seen in the Sufi poetry of Fariduddin Ganjshakar. After which Punjabi Sufi poetry developed underShah HussainSultan Bahu,Shah Sharaf, Ali Haider, Saleh muhammad safoori andBulleh Shah. In contrast to Persian poets, who had preferred theghazalfor poetic exp ression, Punjabi Sufi poets tended to compose in theKafi. Punjabi Poetry is renowned for its deep meaning, beautiful, exciting and hopeful use of words. The large number of Punjabi poetry works are being translated worldwide in many languages.ThePunjabi languageis also famous for its rich literature ofqisse, most of the which are about love, passion, betrayal, sacrifice, social values and a common mans revolt against a larger system. In the Punjabi tradition, friendship, loyalty, love are given utmost importance and most of the stories in theqisseare based on such elements. Waris Shahs qissaof Heer Ranjha is among the most famous Qisse of all times which is one of the four popular tragic romances of Punjab. The other three are Mirza Sahiba,Sassi PunnunandSohni Mahiwal The most popular writer/poet to have writtenPunjabi SufiQissewasBulleh Shah. He is frequently quoted by young and old alike with same respect and on matters of both love and God. Punjabi Architecture Punjabi architectu re is the feast for eyes. Punjab is bestowed with worth perceive architecture all around. The oldest examples of architecture sculpture and painting in the Punjab croak to the Harappa civilization. The breathtaking architecture include * Badshahi Mosque is a famous landmark and a major tourist attraction. Badshai masjid was built by sixth mughal emperor Aurengzeb in 1671 and completed in 1673.It is the second largest masjid in Pakistan and fifth largest in the world. * Taxilais a town and an importantarchaeologicalsite in theDistrict of thePunjabprovince inPakistan. The site includes buildings, fortifications, settlements, showing architectural influence. * TheWazir Khan MosqueinLahore,Pakistan, is famous for its extensive faiencetile work. It has been described as a mole on the cheek of Lahore. It was built in seven years, starting around 16341635 AD, during the reign of theMughal EmperorShah Jehan. Rohtas Fortis a historical place fort built by kingFarid Khan, located near the city of JheluminPakistan. This fort is about 4km in circuit and the first example of the successful amalgamation of Pashtun and Hindu architecture in theIndian Subcontinent. * TheKhewra Salt Mineis located inKhewra, north ofPind Dadan Khan, an administrative subdivision ofJhelum District,Punjab, Pakistan. It is Pakistans largest and oldest salt mineand the worlds second largest. It is a major tourist attraction. Punjab arts and craftPunjab has a rich tradition of arts and crafts. The richness of the land is reflected in its handicraft. The people of Punjab lay much importance on their artistry and the minute details of their work. The artistic creations of Punjab are acclaimed all over the world. The skilled and dexterous artisans of the state produce a variety of handicrafts and even the rural women have a major contribution in the production of these winning art works. Mud work Mud work is a famous rural practice in Punjab, prevalent from the ancient times.It is a cause in Pun jab to mud-plaster the walls of the house and then, create motifs and designs on the mudded walls. Metal work metalworking is also very popular in Punjab. Utensils made of metals are used in households, as also for religious purposes. Basketry work Thin straws of sparkler are used for basketry works, which is another Punjabi craft that is immensely popular. Mats, rugs, carpets, curtains and hand fans are woven using these straws. Embroidery Embroidery is another extensively followed work of art, known in the state by various local names.Phulkari, an intricate needle work, is extremely popular and is mainly taken up by village girls. Juttis of Punjab Punjabi juttis represent the traditional footwear of Punjab, which is known worldwide for its groovy design and intricate pattern. Punjab festivals Punjab is well known for its festivals which include Urs The fairs held at the shrines ofSufisaints are calledurs. They generally mark the death anniversary of the saint. On these occasions devotees assemble in large numbers and pay homage to the keeping of the saint.Soul inspiring music is played and devotees dance in The most important urs are urs of DataGanj BukshatLahore, urs of HazratSultan BahuatJhang, urs of HazratShah JewnaatJhang, urs of HazratMian Mirat Lahore, urs ofBaba FaridGanj Shakar atPakpattan, urs of HazratBahaudin ZakriaatMultan, urs ofSakhi Sarwar SultanatDera Ghazi Khan, urs ofShah Hussainat Lahore, urs of HazratBulleh ShahatKasur, urs of Hazratimam Bari(Bari Shah Latif) atRawalpindi-Islamabad and urs ofShah Inayar Qadri(the murrshad ofBulleh Shah) in Lahore.A big fair/mela is organized atJandiala Sher Khanin districtSheikhupuraon the Mausoleum of SyedWaris Shahwho is the most loved Sufi poet of Punjab due to his claasic work known asHeer Ranjha. The shrine ofHeer RanjhainJhanghas been one of the most visited shrines in Punjabecstasy. The music on these occasions is essentially folk and appealing. It forms a part of the folk music through mystic messages. Industrial and commercialized fairs Exhibitions and Annual Horse Shows in all Districts and National Horse and Cattle Show at Lahore are held with the official patronage.National Horse and Cattle Show at Lahore is the biggest festival where sports, exhibitions, and livestock competitions are held. It not only encourages and patronizes agricultural products and livestock through the exhibitions of agricultural products and cattle but is also a colourful documentary on the rich cultural heritage of the state with its strong rural roots. Other festivals In addition to the religious festivals, Punjabis may celebrate seasonal and harvest festivals, which includeLohri,Basant,BaisakhiandTeej. Punjabi CuisinePunjabi cuisine has an immense range of dishes and has become world-leader in the field so much so that many entrepreneurs that have invested in the sector have built large fortunes due to popularity of Punjabi cuisine throughout the world. Sarso ka sag and Maki ki roti are examples of well known dishes. Punjabi cuisine can be non-vegetarian or completely vegetarian. floor cooked and Punjabi cuisine can vary significantly, with restaurant style using large amount of ghee, clarified butter, with home cooking concentrating on mainly upon preparations with solely wheat, rice and other ingredients flavored with masala.Within the Punjab region, there are different preferences. People in the area of Lahore prefer stuffed parathas and milk products. In fact, the area is well known for quality of its milk products. The main masala in a Punjabi dish consists of onion, ail and ginger. Tandoori food is a Punjabi specialty for non-vegetarian dishes. Tandoor, Naan, Pakoras and vegetable dishes with paneer are also derived from Punjab. Punjabi medicinal drug Bhangra is of the many Punjabi art forms that is increasingly being listened to in the west and is becoming a mainstream favorite.Punjabi music is being used by western musicians, in many ways, such as mixing it with other compositions to produce award-winning music. In addition, Punjabi Classical music is increasingly becoming popular in the west. Punjabi music has a diverse style of music, ranging from folk and Sufi to classical, notably the Patiala Gharana. Folk music of Punjab is the traditional music of Punjab produced using the traditional instruments like Tumbi, Algoze, Dhadd, Sarangi, Chimta and more. Sufi music includes the singing of Sufi poetry in several genres.Some of the poets whose compositions are often sung include Baba Farid, Bulleh Shah, Shah Husain, Waris Shah and Mian Muhammad Bakhsh. Classical music includes Patiala Gharana and malingerer Chaurasia Gharana. Punjabi Dances Owing to the long history of the Punjabi culture there is a large number of dances, normally performed at times of celebration, including harvests, festivals and wedding. The particular background of the dances can be non-religious and religious. The overall style can range from the high zilch B hangra mens dance to the more reserved Jhumar, the Gidha womens dance.Punjabi dances are an array of folk and religious dances of the Punjabi people indigenous to the Punjabi religion, straddling the border of India and Pakistan. At times of celebration everyone is encouraged to dance. Married Punjabi couples usually dance together. The husband dances in the style of male Punjabi dances, frequently with arms raised and the wife dances in the style of female Punjabi dances. Common Punjabi Folk Dances for Females * Sammi * Giddha * Jaago * Kikli * Luddi Common Punjabi Dances for Males * Bhangra * Jhumar * Gatka * Jalli * Dhamal * Dankara Khatka (Sword Dance) Punjabi costume Basically Punjabi dress is simple and easy to use. One can see a variety in the dresses. The people of Punjab wear according to their traditions. unalike dresses are used in rural and urban areas. The Punjabi dresses fulfill the requirements of climate and religion. Turban or a cap is a part of Punjabi dress. Th e male members of the rural society wear Dhoti, Kurta and Turban. The female members like to wear Shalwar, Kurta and Dupatta both in rural and urban areas. Shalwar, shirt, coat and pant are used in the urban areas by the men. The Western dress has greatly influenced the urban areas.The dress is prepared to fulfill the requirements of pardah. Special dress is prepared f or the bride at the time of her marriage. Punjabi wedding Traditions Punjabi wedding traditions and ceremonies are traditionally conducted in Punjabi and are a strong reflection of Punjabi culture. While the veridical religious marriage ceremony among Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains may be conducted in Arabic, Punjabi, Sanskrit, by the Qazi, Pundit, Granthi or Priest, there are commonalities in ritual, song, dance, food, dress. The Punjabi wedding has many rituals and ceremonies that have evolved since traditional times.