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Chap 2 : Culture

What is a Nation?

A nation is a group of people who share common things like:

  • The same history and past experiences
  • The same language they speak
  • The same culture and way of life
  • They live in the same area or country with clear borders

When people belong to the same nation, it brings together different people, areas, communities, languages, and cultures so they can live together peacefully and happily.

What is Nationalism?

Nationalism means having strong love and loyalty for your country. It is the feeling of supporting your country and culture, which is very much like being patriotic.

Nationalism is built on sharing the same:

  • Language
  • Religion
  • Culture
  • Social values and beliefs

Nationalism becomes stronger when people share the same:

  • Music and songs
  • Books and stories
  • Sports and games
  • Symbols and signs
  • Folk stories and myths

A strong feeling of nationalism is good because it makes people feel they belong to one nation. Pakistan is a free country, and this makes its people proud. When you meet people from other countries, being Pakistani becomes your special identity.

What Brings People Together

People of a nation stay united because they share the same :
culture
religion
history.

They also connect through their :
language
clothes
food
customs
traditions.

What is Culture?

Culture means the way people live and do things.
It includes their :
language,
religion,
customs,
traditions,
art
government.

Culture also shows in :
food,
clothes,
crafts
values.

Different groups may have different cultures, but they can still live together peacefully.
Culture is passed from parents to children through generations.

Pakistan’s Rich Regional Cultures

Pakistan has many local cultures in its four provinces and two regions: Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
The people of Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa each have their own traditions.

In the northern mountains, the Kalash people follow an old way of life.
Other groups like Christians, Hindus, Parsis, and Sikhs also have their own cultures.
Even with these differences, a common language and shared values keep all Pakistanis united.

Common Cultural Heritage

A shared cultural heritage helps people live together peacefully. In Pakistan, this heritage is seen in old historical sites and traditional arts and crafts. Every region has its own handmade crafts, like wood and metal carving, and the weaving of carpets and rugs, which has been a tradition for centuries.

Islamic Influence on Pakistani Culture

Pakistan is an Islamic country where most people are Muslim. Islam teaches peace, tolerance, and fairness. Its influence is seen in food, customs, mosques, architecture, calligraphy, and clothing. This Islamic way of life is followed in all provinces and regions, keeping the people connected.

Diverse Cultures of Different Regions

3.1 Overview of Regional Differences

Pakistan has many provinces and regions – Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Balochistan, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Each has its own culture, seen in food, clothes, music, and traditions.

3.2 Punjab

  • Geography & Name: Punjab means land of five rivers (‘Punj’ = five, ‘aab’ = water).
  • Culture: Strongly linked to farming life in villages.
  • Food: Famous for sarson ka saag, lassi, and daal makhni.
  • Dances: Energetic bhangra and luddi.
  • Clothing: Women wear shalwar kameez, men wear dhoti/lacha.
  • Religious Unity: Muslims, Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs share Punjabi culture in dance, dress, and language.
  • Literature & Stories: Poetry of Bulleh Shah sung at shrines; famous folk tales include Sohni-Mahiwal and Heer-Ranjha.

3.3 Sindh

  • Language & History: Sindhi culture and language are very old; influenced by Sufi traditions.
  • Poetry & Music:
    • Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai respected by all communities.
    • Sachal Sarmast’s Sufi poetry widely sung.
  • Food: Famous for Sindhi biryani and sweet vermicelli.
  • Clothing & Textiles:
    • Sindhi topi (cap).
    • Sindhi ajrak (deep-colored shawl with block patterns from Indus Valley times).
  • Handicrafts:
    • Rilli patchwork quilts made by women from memory, without tools.

3.4 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK)

  • Culture: Based on Pashto language, customs, and tribal history.
  • People’s Character: Known for hospitality, courage, dignity, and independence.
  • Food: Dum Pukht, yogurt dishes, and chapli kebab.
  • Literature: Famous poets include Khushal Khan Khattak and Rahman Baba. Rubayi (short poetry) is common.
  • Dance & Music:
    • Khattak dance shows energy and bravery.
    • Rubab is a popular folk music instrument.

3.5 Balochistan

  • Culture: Strongly tribal.
  • Clothing & Arts: Traditional Balochi dresses, dances, and crafts.
  • Handicrafts: Balochi embroidery with mirror work, passed from mothers to daughters, famous across Pakistan.
  • Food: Love eating goat or lamb. Famous dish: sajji (whole lamb).
  • Dance & Music:
    • Do chap group dance with clapping.
    • Flute is common instrument.
    • Wedding songs are popular.

3.6 Azad Jammu and Kashmir

  • Culture: Very diverse and rich.
  • Food: Famous for Roghan Josh, Kashmiri tea (pink tea), and kehwa.
  • Handicrafts: Known for fine embroidery on woolen shawls and dresses.

3.7 Gilgit-Baltistan

  • Clothing: Men wear woolen caps rolled at the sides, decorated with a flower or feather.
  • Hospitality: People are very welcoming, especially to tourists.
  • Cultural Diversity: Many tribes and sects live peacefully; tribal festivals and dances are common.
  • Famous Festival: Shandur Polo Festival played at the world’s highest polo ground.
  • Languages: Main language is Shina; others include Balti, Burushaski, and Wakhi.
  • Food:
    • Harissa (meat, rice, lentils).
    • Mamtu (dumplings).
    • Balay (noodle soup).

Circle the Correct Answer

1. People of a nation get along with one another because of the _______ they share together.

Answer: a. similarities

Explanation: People connect because they share similar things like language, culture, history, and traditions.

2. Pakistan’s culture derives from its _______ roots.

Answer: c. Islamic

Explanation: Pakistan is an Islamic country and its culture comes mainly from Islamic teachings and way of life.

3. The Punjab is known as the land of _______ rivers.

Answer: c. five

Explanation: Punjab means “land of five rivers” – ‘Punj’ means five and ‘aab’ means water.

4. The well-known Sufi poet of Sindh is _______.

Answer: a. Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai

Explanation: He is a famous Sufi poet from Sindh whose poetry is very popular and part of Sindhi folk music.

5. _______ is a form of poetry, famous within the culture of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Answer: c. Rubayi

Explanation: Rubayi is a special type of poetry that is popular in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa culture.


Questions and Answers

1. Define ‘Culture.’ In what ways is culture recognizable?

What is Culture? Culture means people’s way of life or how groups of people live and do things. It is the shared interests and likes of a community.

Ways Culture Can Be Recognized:

  • Language – the way people speak
  • Food – what people eat and how they cook
  • Clothing – the clothes and dresses people wear
  • Religion – what people believe in
  • Customs and Traditions – special practices people follow
  • Arts and Crafts – handmade things people create
  • Music and Dance – songs and dances people perform
  • Architecture – how buildings and houses are built
  • Values – what people think is right or wrong

2. How has Islamic way of life become part of the Pakistani culture?

The Islamic way of life has deeply shaped Pakistani culture in many ways:

  1. Daily Life – People follow Islamic teachings of peace, fairness, and tolerance in their everyday dealings.
  2. Food – Only halal food is eaten, and Islamic rules guide how animals are slaughtered and meals are prepared.
  3. Architecture – Pakistani culture is enriched by Islamic-style mosques with domes, minarets, and arches.
  4. Art – Islamic calligraphy is widely used in decoration, books, and monuments.
  5. Clothing – Modest dressing, such as shalwar kameez and hijab, reflects Islamic teachings.
  6. Beliefs and Customs – Daily prayers, fasting in Ramadan, and zakat (charity) are regular parts of life.
  7. Values – Honesty, kindness, and helping the needy are Islamic values followed in society.
  8. Festivals – Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha are celebrated nationwide with joy.
  9. Social Life – Relationships, hospitality, and respect for elders are influenced by Islamic principles.

3. Define the term ‘nation’. Explain what is ‘nationalism’ to you in detail.

Nation:
A nation is a group of people who share the same history, language, culture, and way of life, and who live together within the same geographical boundaries under one identity.

Nationalism:
Nationalism is a strong feeling of love, pride, and loyalty towards one’s country. To me, nationalism means:

  • Supporting the Country: Always wishing for the progress and success of Pakistan.
  • Feeling Proud: Taking pride in being a Pakistani and valuing our national identity.
  • Sharing Common Values: Believing in honesty, unity, and justice as guiding principles.
  • Protecting Culture: Preserving our traditions, festivals, and way of life.
  • Common Identity: Feeling connected with other citizens as one nation.

Nationalism becomes stronger when people share the same language, religion, festivals, music, and stories. It creates unity among communities, gives a sense of belonging, and motivates people to work together for the nation’s development.

4. Highlight your favourite crafts, foods, and festivals from the diverse cultures of Pakistan.

Punjab:

  • Handmade carpets and rugs
  • Wood carving with beautiful designs

Sindh:

  • Ajrak: Beautiful cloth with blue, maroon, and black patterns
  • Rilli: Patchwork art made by women from memory
  • Block printing that dates back to ancient times

Balochistan:

  • Mirror work embroidery: Passed down from mothers to daughters
  • Beautiful needlework on clothes

Kashmir:

  • Hand embroidery on woolen shawls: Very delicate and fine work
  • Handmade crafts on women’s dresses

Gilgit-Baltistan:

  • Handmade woolen caps: Rolled up at the sides with feathers or flowers

Punjab:

  • Sarson ka saag (mustard greens)
  • Lassi (yogurt drink)
  • Daal makhni (buttery lentils)

Sindh:

  • Spicy Sindhi biryani
  • Sweet vermicelli

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:

  • Chapli kebab (loved all over Pakistan)
  • Dum Pukht (slow-cooked meat)
  • Yogurt-based dishes

Balochistan:

  • Sajji (whole roasted lamb)
  • Goat and lamb meat dishes

Kashmir:

  • Roghan Josh (Mughal-style curry)
  • Kashmiri tea (pink tea)
  • Kehwa (black tea with spices)

Gilgit-Baltistan:

  • Harissa (meat, rice, and lentils)
  • Mamtu (dumplings)
  • Balay (noodle soup)

Gilgit-Baltistan:

  • Shandur Polo Festival: Free-style polo played at the world’s highest polo ground

All Regions:

  • Islamic Festivals: Eid celebrations that bring everyone together
  • Cultural Festivals: Local celebrations with traditional music and dance
  • Harvest Festivals: Celebrating good crops in farming areas

5. Explain why multi-culturalism is an advantage for a country.

Multiculturalism means people from different cultures living together in one country.

Advantages of Multiculturalism for Pakistan:

  • Economic: More jobs, businesses, and tourism; variety of foods and products.
  • Social: People learn from each other, respect differences, and live in peace.
  • Creative: New ideas in art, music, and food; better problem-solving.
  • Educational: Learn more languages and cultures; become open-minded.
  • National Strength: Unity, equal participation, pride in diversity.

4.2 Pakistan and Multiculturalism

Economic Benefits

  • More variety of food, clothes, languages, and traditions.
  • New opportunities for people to earn and work.
  • Country grows with the talents of different communities.
  • Less need to import services from abroad.
  • More local jobs for Pakistanis.

Creative Benefits

  • People think in new ways.
  • Brings more creativity in society.
  • Helps solve common problems together.

5. Communication and Culture

5.1 How Culture is Passed Down

Culture is shared from one generation to another through:

  • Stories
  • Rituals and ceremonies
  • Symbols and signs
  • Language

Communication is very important in life. It means sharing information by speaking, writing, or other ways.

5.2 Forms of Communication and Their Importance

Today, modern technology helps people communicate through:

  • Radio
  • Television
  • Newspapers
  • Internet
  • Social media

Two main types of communication can reach many people at once:

  • Mass media
  • Social media

Here’s the junior-student version, short and simple but with all details kept:

6. Mass Media

6.1 What is Mass Media?

Mass media means using technologies like:

  • Newspapers
  • Television
  • Radio

It helps reach the largest number of people.

6.2 Benefits of Mass Media

  • Computers and the Internet make sharing news and messages faster worldwide.
  • Radio and TV give news and entertainment even to people in faraway areas.

Here’s the junior-friendly rewritten version, keeping all important details intact but making it simpler:

7. Social Media

7.1 What is Social Media?

Social media are computer-based platforms that let people:

  • Create and share content
  • Connect through social networking

It is a way of sharing ideas, interests, and information online.

7.2 Popular Social Media Platforms

Social media helps people connect with family, friends, and others around the world. Common platforms are:

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • Twitter
  • WhatsApp
  • And others

7.3 Viral Content

When something goes viral, it means the news or content is shared widely on social media and seen by many people.

7.4 Smartphone Usage

Today, smartphones allow easy access to the Internet and social media. In Pakistan, more than 100 million people use smartphones.


Here’s a junior-student–friendly version, with all details kept but written simply:


8. Difference Between Mass Media and Social Media

8.1 Personal vs. Impersonal

  • Mass Media: Impersonal; uses films, songs, and recorded music.
  • Social Media: Personal; people share news, opinions, and daily life.

8.2 Content Creation

  • Mass Media: Messages are created for the public.
  • Social Media: The public can also create and share content.

8.3 Cost

  • Mass Media: More expensive to use.
  • Social Media: Mostly free if you have internet.

8.4 Communication Direction

  • Mass Media: One-way communication.
  • Social Media: Two-way communication with feedback and opinions.

Here’s the junior-student–friendly rewritten version, keeping all important details intact but in simpler words:


9. Advantages of Information Means

Information through mass media and social media gives many benefits:

  • Social media connects people with loved ones anywhere in the world.
  • TV and newspapers give news about current events around the globe.
  • Both are sources of entertainment for all age groups.
  • Electronic media makes sharing information fast and easy.
  • People can raise their voices against injustice and reach authorities easily.

10. Disadvantages of Information Means

10.1 Reduced Personal Contact

  • Social media reduces face-to-face interaction, which is more meaningful.

10.2 Cyberbullying

  • On social media, some people post hurtful or dishonest comments to damage others.
  • This is called cyberbullying and it is a crime in Pakistan.

10.3 Fake News and False Information

  • Fake news can spread panic in society.
  • False information is sometimes posted to confuse people.

10.4 Health Issues

  • Too much screen use harms the eyes.
  • It also causes tiredness.

10.5 Impact on Children

  • Children may lose interest in studies and physical activities.
  • This happens because they spend too much time on screens.

👉 Do you want me to combine both (advantages + disadvantages) into a single short exam-style points list for quick revision?


Communication and Media Questions

Circle the Correct Answer

1. _______ is the use of different media technologies for mass communication.

Answer: a. Mass media

Mass media uses TV, radio, and newspapers to reach many people at once.

2. Social media platforms are mostly _______ if you have Internet access.

Answer: c. free

Most social media like Facebook and WhatsApp don’t cost money if you have internet.

3. Bullying on social media platforms is called _______.

Answer: b. cyberbullying

When people are mean to others online, it’s called cyberbullying.

4. The world has become _______ due to social media.

Answer: a. closer

Social media helps people connect with family and friends anywhere in the world.

5. Public can give immediate feedback or voice their opinions on _______.

Answer: a. social media

On social media, people can quickly respond and share their thoughts.


Detailed Questions

1. Explain how means of communication transmit culture.

How Communication Passes Culture:

  • Stories: Parents tell children old folk tales and family stories
  • Language: Speaking the same language keeps culture alive
  • Symbols: Using flags, religious symbols, and cultural signs
  • Rituals: Teaching ceremonies and traditional practices

Modern Ways:

  • TV and Radio: Show cultural programs, music, and traditions
  • Social Media: People share cultural photos, videos, and celebrations
  • Internet: Helps preserve and spread cultural knowledge

Communication is like a bridge that carries culture from old people to young people.

2. List the important means of communication. Which one do you like and why?

Important Means of Communication:

Traditional:

  • Newspapers
  • Television
  • Radio

Modern:

  • Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp)
  • Internet
  • Smartphones

My Favorite: WhatsApp

I like WhatsApp because:

  • It’s free to use
  • I can talk to family instantly
  • I can share photos and videos
  • It works on my phone anywhere
  • I can make group chats with friends

3. Explain two differences between mass media and social media.

Two Main Differences:

1. Cost Difference:

  • Mass Media: Expensive to use (TV channels, newspapers cost money)
  • Social Media: Free to use if you have internet

2. Communication Direction:

  • Mass Media: One-way (TV talks to you, you can’t talk back)
  • Social Media: Two-way (you can talk back and share your thoughts)

4. Can you find some similarities in mass and social media?

Similarities Between Mass and Social Media:

1. Information Sharing:

  • Both spread news and information to many people
  • Both tell us what’s happening in the world

2. Entertainment:

  • Both provide fun content like movies, music, and games
  • Both help people relax and enjoy

3. Connecting People:

  • Both help people learn about different cultures
  • Both bring communities together

4. Education:

  • Both teach us new things
  • Both help students learn

5. Explain some good and bad effects of watching television on children and young adults.

Good Effects of Television:

Educational Benefits:

  • Learn about different countries and cultures
  • Educational programs teach science and history
  • News programs keep you informed
  • Documentary shows expand knowledge

Entertainment:

  • Provides fun and relaxation
  • Good family time when watching together
  • Helps reduce stress after studying

Bad Effects of Television:

Health Problems:

  • Hurts eyes from too much screen time
  • Makes body tired from sitting too long
  • Can cause headaches

Study Issues:

  • Takes time away from homework
  • Makes children less interested in reading books
  • Reduces focus on school work

Social Problems:

  • Less time playing with friends outside
  • Less physical exercise and sports
  • May see inappropriate content

Sleep Problems:

  • Watching late at night affects sleep
  • Tired the next day at school

Copy Work

What is Nation

A nation is a group of people from different religions and cultures who have different traditions but live in the same country.

Write any two festivals celebrated in Pakistan

14 August and Eid ul Fitar

How do Pakistanis show Hospitality

Pakistanis show hospitality by respecting guests and offering food and beverages. They may also give gifts at times.

Fill in the blanks

The national language of Pakistan is URDU.
The national dress of Pakistan is Shalwar Kameez
The people of Pakistan are known for : Tradition, Hospitality, and Delicious Food

Match the Columns

Punjab ——- Sajji
Sindh ——– Lassi
K.P.K ——- Sindhi Biryani
Balochistan —— Chapli Kabab

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