Monday, October 20, 2008

Culture Of Punjab



Punjabi Culture is the culture of the Punjab region. It is one of the oldest and richest cultures in world history, dating from ancient antiquity to the modern era. The Punjabi Culture is the culture of the Punjabi people who are now distributed throughout 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.



Bhangra is one of the many Punjabi musical art forms that is increasingly being listened to in the west and is becoming a mainstream favourite. 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 due to the beauty of sounds of the Punjabi language and its composition.
Punjabis are extremely energetic, hard working and hospitable. The cuisine is delicious and a guest in a Punjabi home is honored to the maximum. Punjabi songs are full of melody. The beats of drum (dhol) and the rhythm of the steel spoon on the dholak is a simple style but adds to the exuberance of Punjabi music. The dance styles of Punjab has more flavor with its bhangra, giddha, kikli and sammi.
Punjabi songs and dances are very much compulsory during get togethers and festivals. The festivals of Punjab makes the culture more interesting. There is a riot of colors in the pagdi-turban and phulkari dupattas, that comes out during the Baisakhi festival. The traditional dress of the Punjabis comprising of the salwar-kameez for women and lehenga-kurta with a waistcoast has many colors and styling. Turban styles can be explored and is compulsory for all Sikhs.
The people of Punjab are very warm by nature. They respect all cultures and weddings in a Punjabi family is a great occasion. Along with marigolds, silks and the delicacies there is a distinct Indianness felt in each ritual. Punjabi songs at the wedding range from emotional interludes to very peppy beats, where there is a constant chiding of the bride and groom. A sense of humor is essential to enjoy the wedding songs.
Punjabis are known for their keen interest in dress sense and up to date fashion essentials. They love to participate in all events and are sportive by nature. The balance is well maintained by yielding to western influences of pop culture in their bhangra beats and showing allegiance to God in the chants of Gurbani.

No comments: