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Questions and Answers
Which religious group makes up the majority of the population in the Punjab region?
What event led to the partition of the Punjab region into India and Pakistan?
Which cuisine is famous worldwide and is a significant part of Punjabi culture?
What is the traditional dress for men in Punjabi culture?
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Which musical genre is most popular in Punjabi culture?
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Which empire did the Punjab region come under before British control?
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Study Notes
The Punjab region is located in South Asia and has been divided between India and Pakistan since the end of British rule in 1947. With over 85 million speakers globally, it has one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. This article provides a brief overview of the history of Punjabis and their culture.
History
The earliest known inhabitants of the Indus Valley Civilisation inhabited the areas now known as Punjab. Later, the region was governed by various empires including the Persians, Greeks, and Mughals before coming under British control. After World War II, the region was partitioned into two separate nations – Pakistan and India – along religious lines with Muslims forming Pakistan and Hindus and Sikhs in India.
Culture
Punjabis have a rich cultural heritage that blends Sikhism, Hinduism, Islam, and other religions. Their cuisine is famous worldwide, featuring dishes like chicken tikka masala, samosas, and naan bread. The traditional dress for women is the salwar kameez while for men, it's the sherwani. Music plays an essential role in Punjabi culture, with bhangra being its most popular genre.
Religion
Sikhism originated in the Punjab region in the late 15th century, making up around 61% of the population. Hindus make up approximately 29%, while Muslims comprise nearly 19%. Christians, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs constitute the remaining 1%.
Language
The Punjabi language has three main dialects: Western, Eastern, and Central, which are mutually intelligible. It uses the Gurmukhi script to represent its phonemes.
Conclusion
The Punjabi people have a vast history and diverse culture that significantly contribute to their identity. Despite the division of the Punjab region, the ties among the Punjabi diaspora remain strong, keeping their traditions alive both within their borders and beyond them.
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Description
Explore the rich history, diverse culture, and religious demographics of the Punjab region in South Asia. Learn about the Indus Valley Civilisation, various empires that ruled the region, religions, languages, and cultural traditions of Punjabis.
