My Pakistani culture is part of my identity. From the songs I have a one person dance party to to my views on pressing social and political issues, my culture plays a huge role in my life, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Although every culture has its downfalls, the pros usually outnumber the cons and we can appreciate how unique and beautiful it really is.
1. The Food
Biryani is all you need to taste to justify that Desi food is amazing. I personally could eat five plates in one sitting. Of course, there are many other Desi foods that are mouth watering such as the popular samosas, naan and chicken curry. One reason Desi food is so delicious is because of all the oils, spices and fresh herbs that are incorporated into the dishes. You would think that an okra dish requires two ingredients. Well, think again. The addition of garam masala, paprika, haldi, methi (all Pakistani spices), makes even the simplest dish much more flavorful.
2. Clothes
Desi outfits are one word-- beautiful! Every stitch, bead and sparkle is placed perfectly to produce a flawless dress. Desi clothes are generally very colorful and unique. Most of the time, we get our clothes custom made so its very unlikely that someone will have the same outfit. There is so many different kinds of clothing as well including sari's, lehenga's, garara's and shalwar kameez's. Bridal clothing is taken to the next level! The Dupatta, or shawl, on the bride's head is usually so heavy because of all the beautiful beading on it. Desi fashion has made a huge improvement in today's society, from Desi style pants, shirts, skirts, and shawls. There is definitely a style for everyone.
3. Weddings
Desi weddings are the bomb! They don't just last one or two days, but can go on for up to one month! A Nikah is an Islamic marriage and is religiously the only ceremony required to be legally married in Islam. However, we have incorporated many cultural events into the whole wedding ceremony. The length of the wedding season typically depends on how many smaller functions, called dholkis, the bride or groom has. Anyone can throw a dholki for them, such as their friends, aunts, uncles, or even her second removed cousin who didn't know they existed until their wedding announcement. There could be three or four of these "pre-wedding" events. After that, the bride throws a mayoon, which I honestly believe is just another way to party. Keep in mind that there is an abundant amount of music and dancing at these gatherings. The next three events are the official parties.
The Mehndi is the most fun one, in my opinion. Although there is music and dancing at every event, the Mehndi includes choreographed and synchronized dancing as well as a free styling "after-party" session. It can get really wild depending on how fun the families are. The Barat and Ruksati are more sophisticated and are when the bride officially moves in with her husband. The Walima is thrown usually the next day to celebrate their union. As you can see, Desi weddings are definitely not just a weekend thing. Once the events are over, you are eager for someone else to get married to experience it all over again!
4. Architecture
Desi architecture is very detail oriented. Unique geometric shapes, floral patterns, and tiles are often used and dome roofs and archways are very common. Their age makes them all the more breath taking because it's like being part of history while you're walking through the halls. There's no doubt these buildings will leave you in awe.
5. Bus and Truck Art
Some of the most characteristic works of art in Pakistan are truck and bus art. Every truck and bus is different and decorated with bright and vibrant colors, patterns, and poetry. Drivers like to adorn their vehicles because people love and enjoy their artistry. This makes them feel proud and respected. The trucks and buses are their home away from home, so they want their second home to be as beautiful as possible. You'll definately always have a view while you're on the road!
6. Family
"Wow, you're 25 and still living with your parents." is a phrase desi people do not get offended by because that is perfectly normal, in fact expected, in our culture. There is no common anticipation of freedom once high school ends, for a lot of us do end up going to colleges near our homes anyways. For us girls, we usually live with our parents until we get married and for guys, their brides will be living with their husbands' families for at least a couple of years. Non-desi people are probably really confused and or horrified at this thought but theres a method to the madness. This system is the status quo because our culture puts family above everything else. Having wise elders in the home provides guidance and a whole lot of love (hopefully) to us youngsters who definitely need their advice. Our parents aren't going to be here for our entire lives, so we should enjoy their company for as long as we possibly can.
7. Bhangra
Bhangra is a traditional type of dance as well as music that originated in Punjab, India. Choreographed bhangra is intense and requires a lot of stamina because you're basically jumping for the most part, however in an organized and fun manner. Freestyling bhangra is can be much more simple, but both are equally as enjoyable. Bhangra music can automatically lift anyone off their seats and onto the dance floor because, man, it's so good!!
