Culture and Traditions of Pakistan

URDU - Official language of Pakistan. Urdu is closely related to Hindi, but is written in an extended Arabic alphabet

Other languages spoken in Pakistan, include: Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, Gujrati

Assalam alaikum = Hello

Aap kaise ho? = How are you?

Khuda hafiz = Good bye

(May God take care of you)

Islam is the main religion of Pakistan People who follow Islam are called "Muslims", and belive in only one God- Allah

Islam means: Peace

Other religions: Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism

• The local mode of transport used by public is the "Rickshaw" and the Bus.
• Bus ride is the cheapest form of transport, costing as less as 15rs= 0.15$ for the longest rute!
• The buses are a work of art - a true Cultural symbol!

Family etiquette

• Joint families!
• 4 Generations - 1 room, 1 bed!!

Respecting elders

Children show utmost respect to their elders:

• Never talk back
• Never call them by their names
• Customary for girls to kiss the hands of the elderly women when getting them as a sign of respect

Dressing etiquettes

• Islam requires women to dress modestly, covering their bodies in loose flowy dresses that do not reveal the shape of the bodies.
• Traditional outfit: Shalwar Kameez
• Most women cover their heads with scarves - known as Hijah

• All in all, Pakistani have developed a unique set of cultural and traditional values that have been derived from all the different ethnic groups of Pakistan.
• I'm proud to call myself a Pakistani, because there are so many aspects of my culture that I love and hold close to my heart.
• It's important to stay in touch with your cultural heritage and roots regardless of where you live, how modern you become because some part of you will always reflect your home town!