Exploring the Cultural Identity of Pakistan: The Evolution of Dhoti and Saree

Many people often misconstrue the cultural dynamics of Pakistan, focusing on narrow narratives that suggest bans or forced introductions of cultures. In truth, Pakistan is a richly diverse country, with a complex cultural tapestry that has evolved over centuries. This article delves into the evolution of two key cultural elements in the province of Punjab: the Dhoti and the Saree.

Understanding the Cultural Context

Pakistan is a diverse nation, home to numerous ethnic groups. While the Pashtun population shares cultural similarities with the Afghan population, the rest of the ethnic groups in Pakistan, including the Punjabis, Sindhis, and Urdu-speaking populations, have their own distinct languages, cultures, and traditional clothing.

Decline of the Dhoti

The Dhoti, along with the Kameez or Lacha Kurta, has never been officially banned in Pakistan. However, its popularity has declined, particularly in urban centers. Today, the Shalwar Kameez has become the preferred traditional attire, especially in urban areas.

The rise of the Shalwar Kameez can be traced back to the British colonial era. By the end of the colonial period, the urban elite in Punjab had adopted the Shalwar Kameez. Following Pakistan's independence, this trend continued to spread to rural regions, leading to a gradual decline in the use of the Dhoti among younger generations. However, many older rural residents continue to wear the Dhoti.

Factors Contributing to the Decline of the Dhoti

The urban elite's inclination towards the Shalwar Kameez The poor social perception of the Dhoti among city dwellers The expansion of modern urban fashion into rural areas

My father, a poor student from a village, experienced the urban elite's disdain for rural clothing, especially the Dhoti. This attitude towards the rural population, based on classist perceptions rather than cultural or religious differences, persists today in cities like Lahore.

Ban on the Saree

The Saree has a different history in Pakistan, primarily due to its association with the Indian region. During President Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq's rule from 1978 to 1988, there were efforts to discourage the use of the Saree, particularly among government officials and TV personalities. However, the Saree was not officially banned for the general public.

Reasons for the Ban on Saree

Perception of the Saree as un-Islamic by President Zia and religious classes The Saree's association with Bengali and Hindu identity following the 1971 Indo-Pak War Attempts to appease conservative groups through cultural policies

While the Saree lost favor among conservative groups, its popularity is recovering in urban centers, particularly during traditional events like weddings and celebrations. The fashion industry in Pakistan is a driving force behind this revival.

Cultural Identity and Modern Fashion

Cultural identity in Pakistan is a multifaceted concept. While traditional clothing remains significant, modern fashion trends are increasingly popular. The aforementioned clothing items represent a blend of historical and contemporary influences, reflecting the dynamic nature of Pakistani culture.

Understanding the evolution of these cultural elements is crucial for anyone interested in the cultural dynamics of Pakistan. The decline of the Dhoti and the ban on the Saree serve as reminders of the broader social and political changes that have shaped the country's cultural landscape over the decades.