Sindh has a rich and unique culture that spans across centuries and religions. Its ancient Indus Valley civilization is still a strong influence on the region. It is also known for its colorful and artistic values. The province also celebrates the Sindhi Cultural Day every year. The day is a time to celebrate the culture and heritage of Sindh and to educate new generations about Sindh’s unique heritage. Many social media users changed their avatar pictures to traditional dresses to celebrate this day.
Ancient Indus Valley Civilization
The Ancient Indus Valley Civilization of Sindh, India, has many features similar to the Bronze Age societies of the Old World. It was contemporaneous with Egypt, Mesopotamia, Western Asia, and the Arabian Peninsula. During this period, the Indus peoples traded with these other civilizations. This was evident in the sourcing of raw materials and the use of pottery, seals, and artériériaux beads.
Although few definitive structures have been discovered, evidence of a complex urban society and a refined craft industry are abundant in the area. The ancient Indus people were skilled at large-scale construction and used an irrigation system and large water storage tanks to grow crops. They also cultivated barley, wheat, sesame, and various legumes. Cotton was also a staple crop, which was used for textiles and other items.
The Ancient Indus Valley Civilization of Sindh developed sophisticated urban planning. The cities were constructed in grid-shaped neighborhoods, with extensive water-management systems. The Indus people may have lived in cities of 30,000 to 40,000 people. The ruins of these cities first came to light in the 1820s, when British officer-archeologists were in the area.
Itinerant lifestyle
The people of Sindh are oriented towards an agricultural lifestyle. The Indus Plains, which are rich in arable land, provide valuable income to the local people. Inland fishing is also practiced along the Indus River, especially in Upper Sindh. In the arid deserts of Thar, however, people lead an itinerant lifestyle.
During the floods in Sindh, many flood-displaced people have taken refuge in urban centers. Some have found temporary shelter in rental properties or relatives’ homes. Others are planning to return to rural life, bringing even more pressure on already swollen cities. According to Nausheen H. Anwar, professor of urban planning at the University of Karachi, this lifestyle is a traditional way of life for many rural Sindhis.
Integration of Hinduism and Islam
The history of Sindh is complex and it has been shaped by the integration of Hinduism and Islam. Although the Hindus were the largest group, Sindhis had little strict Hinduism and were more prone to Islamization and assimilation. They also had a high degree of Sufi zeal. At the time of the Arab conquest of Sindh, there was also a substantial Buddhist population. These people collaborated with the Muslim Arabs far more readily than they had done with the Hindus. This process of absorption may have contributed to the extinction of Buddhism in Sindh.
Islam had an enormous impact on Hindu society. Its influence can be seen in food, clothing, and social life. It also affected the purdah system and language. Both religions emphasized the value of literature. Consequently, a lot of works were written in both languages.
Artistic values
Sindh has a rich history of cultural traditions. Today, Sindhi culture is celebrated across the province. There are various cultural events organized by the cultural department in almost all towns and villages. These include folk music programmes, dramatic performances, tableaux, and literary sittings. People are also encouraged to wear traditional dress including ajrak. The culture and tradition of Sindh is a reflection of the Indus Valley civilization.
Sindh is a land of culture, peace, and tolerance. It has always attracted writers and travellers for its cultural values. In fact, German author Peter Panke was greatly inspired by the mystical beauty of the land and stressed on the importance of maintaining the cultural bounties of the Indus Valley.
Sindhi people have many cultural traditions, which are varied and depend on various occasions. The Sindhi ajrak is one of the most widely used cultural items, and it is a traditional red and blue floral pattern. The Sindhi quilt is another traditional item, handmade by local women.
Mysticism
The revival of Sufism and Mysticism in Sindh can be attributed to the Sindhi separatist movement. They were also influenced by the Marxist and Gandhian ideologies. They reorganized the annual Urs festival into commemorations of the Sindhi martyrs.
The first incarnation of Sufism in Sindh was in the thirteenth century with Husain ibn Mansur al-Halalj, also known as Lal Shahbaz. He travelled widely throughout the region, discussing theological matters with the local sages. His teachings inspired the local poets, who used his poetry to convey their beliefs. In particular, the poet Sachal Sarmast paid homage to the sage in his poems.
Sufi shrines hold a special place in Sindhi society. They play a critical role in society, influencing customs, traditions, and religious practices. The shrines are also a center for spiritual healing and satisfaction for devotees. Visitors to these shrines include both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Music
Music is a very important part of Sindh’s culture. It has a long history and occupies a unique place among the various cultures in the region. Although it has acquired many influences from other regions, Sindhi music has managed to retain its unique form and rhythm. The music of Sindh is a unique and inspirational experience.
Dance
Dance in Sindh is an integral part of the culture of this state, and the music and dance are often associated with the festival season. The traditional Sindhi dance, Ho Jamalo, interprets folk legends and is performed on occasions of festivity. The dance relates the story of the legendary Sindhi warrior Jamal. In the dance, dancers circle the main singer and perform simple steps. As the song continues, the steps become more intricate and the music more fast-paced.
The Sindhi group dance, or chhej, is an important part of the tradition. This performance involves a lead dancer who holds a wooden peace in both hands, and six to eight dancers. The lead dancer often sits in the middle of the circle, laying down on the earth, and performing the dance. If the group has more than ten dancers, an extra pair of dancers may perform in the center.
Sindhi music includes folk songs, ghazals, and bhajans. These songs always bring the audience to their feet. Famous Sindhi musicians include Prof. Ram Panjwani, Master Chander, Bhagwati Navani, and Abida Parveen. Most dances in Sindh are folk.
Poetry
The emergence of Sindhi poetry has been a major contributor to the literature of Sindh. Many poets in Sindh are now known for their beautiful and thought-provoking verses. These works are written in Sindhi and are a blend of classical and contemporary styles. However, a common thread runs through all Sindhi poetry, which is primarily a reflection of social and religious values.
Poetry in Sindh has a long and rich history. It began in the Kalhora period and produced a galaxy of poets. Mohd. Muhsin was credited with introducing Marthiya (monody) to Sindh. Other notable poets include Ali Sher Qani, a master of Persian prosody and chronogram. Another Sindhi poet, Mir Janullah, is best known for his soul-stirring diction and spiritual philosophy.
The literary compositions of Sindh have echoes of the Partition, reflecting the sorrow and gratitude for the Muslim community. They also reflect the struggle for peace and harmony in the nation after Partition. In their poetry, women have been portrayed as both Allegory and symbol, reflecting the feelings of both Muslim and Hindu Sindhis.
