On Pakhtuns Culture

The word "culture" derives from a French term, which in turn derives from the Latin "colere", which means to tend to the earth and grow, or cultivation and nurture. "It shares its etymology with a number of other words related to actively fostering growth. Culture is an umbrella term encompassing every aspect of a particular group of people. It comprises the characteristics and knowledge of a particular group of people, encompassing language, religion, cuisine, social habits, collective behaviour, music and arts. In simple words it is the way of life of a nation. It is the shared patterns of behaviors and interactions, cognitive constructs and understanding that are learned by socialization. Thus, it can be seen as the growth of a group identity fostered by social patterns unique to the group. 

On 24th September, this year, the Pakhtun diaspora across the globe celebrated their culture day. Most of the people on social media placed pictures wearing traditional big turban. Some even shared unique dresses which can only be seen on this special occasion and not in any other routine event. Even if culture is “the way of life” then we should also accept that there are a number of unnecessary evils which have unfortunately become cultural symbols of Pakhtun society.

Weapons, drugs, suppression of human rights, especially women rights, hate and distrust towards our cousins and family, lethargic and dirty environment, streets full of filth: mud, grime, dust. The Pakhtuns collective behaviour is full of disgust, hateful thought for their fellows and relatives. As human beings we are extremely emotional and tend to solve problems under emotional jingoism. We kill each other on petty issues and lack the capacity to solve problems through negotiations. 

The Pakhtun culture is to demonstrate one's power and strength through guns. We wrongly interpret the concept of nang (honour), hospitality, tarboorwaly and other elements of Pakhtunwali. If I am not wrong our society is not civilized. That’s why most of the people try to leave this environment and search for a peaceful life, maybe abroad... or somewhere else... Lawlessness, brawls, murders taking place on a regular basis. There’s a dire need to reform the concept of Pakhtunwali and to throw this ugly concept to the dustbin. In this way we would be able to turn Pakhtun’s land as a paradise on earth which in the current scenario is passing through an unpleasant phase.