Pakistan History, Language and Culture
History of Pakistan
The region that is now Pakistan has been a crossroads of civilisations for millennia. It was once part of the Achaemenid Empire (6th–4th century BCE), serving as a vital link in the Persian Empire's trade and governance. In the centuries that followed, it witnessed the conquests of Alexander the Great (4th century BCE), the rise of the Mauryan Empire, and the flourishing of the Indo-Greek, Kushan, and Gupta empires. These periods brought influences of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Hellenistic culture, leaving enduring legacies in art and architecture.
The Mughal Empire (16th–18th century) ushered in a golden era marked by grand architecture, cultural innovation, and thriving trade. Monuments like the Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque stand as testaments to this legacy. In the mid-19th century, the British East India Company annexed the region, and it became part of British India, introducing modern infrastructure, education, and legal systems.
In 1947, Pakistan gained independence on 14 August following the Partition of British India, becoming a separate state for Muslims under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Initially comprising West Pakistan (modern-day Pakistan) and East Pakistan (modern-day Bangladesh), the country faced significant challenges in uniting its geographically and culturally distinct regions. In 1971, after a civil war and intervention by India, East Pakistan seceded to become Bangladesh.
Since then, Pakistan has navigated periods of political instability, military rule, and economic challenges while asserting itself as a resilient nation with a rich cultural heritage and a strategic role on the global stage.
Did you know?
• The name Pakistan translates to 'land of the pure' in Persian and Urdu.
• Pakistan is home to the highest paved road in the world. At an elevation of 4,693m (15,397ft) above sea level, the Karakoram Highway connects Pakistan with China.
• Pakistan hosts the world's largest volunteer ambulance service, founded by Abdul Sattar Edhi, a humanitarian who established the Edhi Foundation to provide emergency medical care and social services.
Pakistan Culture
Religion in Pakistan
Muslims (96.35%), Hindus (2.17%), Christians (1.37%), Ahmadis (0.07%), Others (0.04%).
Social Conventions in Pakistan
Pakistan's social conventions are shaped by its cultural and religious traditions, with Islam playing a central role in daily life. Visitors are expected to show respect for religious practices and symbols. Modesty is highly valued, particularly in rural areas and religious settings. Men should wear long trousers and shirts, while women should cover their shoulders, arms, and legs. A headscarf is not mandatory for women in most public spaces but may be required when visiting mosques or other religious sites, so carrying one is advisable.
Hospitality is a defining feature of Pakistani culture, and guests are treated with great respect. It is customary to be offered tea or snacks when visiting someone's home, and accepting such gestures is considered polite. Public behaviour is expected to be composed; displays of affection are discouraged, but same-gender friends holding hands is a common and culturally acceptable expression of camaraderie.
When dining, eating with the right hand is customary, and it is polite to wash your hands before and after meals. Photography should always be approached respectfully; ask for permission before photographing people, particularly women, and avoid taking pictures of military or sensitive locations.
Respect for elders and authority figures is deeply ingrained in Pakistani society. Elders are addressed with formal titles such as "Sahib" (for men) or "Begum" (for women).
Language in Pakistan
Urdu is the national language and a symbol of unity across the diverse regions of Pakistan. English is the co-official language, primarily used in official documents, legal proceedings, business, and higher education.
