PUNJABI CULTURE

Punjab has one of the most ancient and richest cultures of the world. Its diversity and uniqueness is
evident in the Punjabi cuisine, clothing, music, art, literature, architecture and history.The provincial
language of Punjab is Punjabi which is widely spoken and understood by not only the inhabitants of
Punjab, but also by many people from beyond the confines of Punjab.

The traditional dresses of Punjab are a mix of various, bright colours, often decorated with skillful
embroidery which is much popular in the area.In most of the villages of Punjab men wear Pagri(turban),
kurta, khusa. Women wear gharara, or choridar pajama or colorful shalwar kameez.

Punjab's cuisine is extremely extensive consisting of various dishes, vegetarian, non-vegetarian, salty,
sour, sweet and everything that makes a person's mouth water.

There are many cities in Punjab, both Urban and rural that readily practice the tradition and cultures of
their province.

LAHORE

First and foremost, we have the "Heart of the country," Lahore. It is a city filled to the brim with
historical architectures and is the hub of all the traditional events. Lahore is home to the much famous
building, Lahore Fort. Built in 1566, Lahore Fort has seen a long and varied history. It was built during
the reign of Emperor Akbar, and upon its construction contained numerous motifs of both Islamic and
Hindu nature. It is the outstanding collection of Mughal artifacts Numbers of people visit the structure
everyday do witness the beautiful interior and the history attached to it. Moreover, we have Badshahi
mosque, the second largest mosque of Pakistan; Masjid Wazir Khan; Shalimar gardens, Tomb of Ali
Mardan Khan and so on so forth.

How is it possible, that we talk about Lahore's culture and don't mention it's exquisite cuisine. There are
several delectable, savoury and mouth watering dishes in Lahore that leave one wanting for more.
These traditional delicacies include halwa puri, nihari, Partha, makkai ki roti, saag and whatnot. We
cannot forget about the Punjabi delicacy of a beverage, Chai, which is readily consumed in almost all
areas of Lahore and is considered an important contribution to the Punjabi culture.

There are many varieties of the ethnic costumes in Pakistan. Pakistani people have the clothing culture
enriched with the numerous influences of thousands of years old heritage and undergone many eras of
evolution. Shalwar Kameez is the national dress of Pakistan which is equally popular in the region along
with other gorgeous and elegant costumes including lahanga, kurta, choli, khusa and chopped.

Another infamous monument in Lahore is the walled city of Lahore also known as androon Lahore. It
forms the historic core of Lahore. The city was established around 1000 CE in the western half of the city
which was fortified by a mud wall during the medieval era. The Walled City rose in prominence after
being selected as the Mughal capital. The Walled City today remains the cultural heart of Lahore, and is
home to many of its tourist attractions.

ISLAMABAD

Another prominent city of Punjab is Islamabad, the capital of the country.

Also enrich in cultural artifacts, Islamabad is home to Pakistan's biggest mosque, the Faisal Mosque. It
was completed in 1986, it was designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, shaped like a desert
Bedouin's tent and is an infamous symbol of Islamabad throughout the world. Furthermore, The
Pakistan Monument is also a national monument and heritage museum located on the western
Shakarparian Hills in Islamabad. The monument was constructed to symbolize the unity of the Pakistani
people. It is dedicated to the people of Pakistan who sacrificed their "today" for a better "tomorrow".

Islamabad is also home go many iconic food spots. Islamabad celebrates food festivals through at times
through its ethnic groups. Many people are seen in a famous eating area known as Kohsar Market which
includes many cafes and restaurants that range from Pakistani, continental foods and other variety.

CONCLUSION

Punjab is a cultural centre with much diversity which challenges the ancient cultures of various other
places. It continues to serve as a province that is enrich in Traditional aspects and cultural heritage.