Nestled between South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East, Pakistan is a country where history and heritage are interwoven with its geopolitical significance.
The Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, created between 1671 and 1673, was the largest in the world upon construction.
Today, it is the second largest mosque in Pakistan and the fifth largest in the world. The mosque is located in the Walled City of Lahore.
The Pakistan government in 1993 included the Badshahi Mosque in the tentative list for Unesco World Heritage Site.
Pakistan’s traditions stem from an intricate blend of ancient civilisations, including the Indus Valley, Persian, Mughal and British colonial influences.
The nation’s social customs are defined by deep familial bonds and an unwavering sense of respect for elders.
Hospitality is a hallmark of Pakistani culture; a guest, whether invited or unexpected, is treated with the utmost warmth and generosity.
Weddings, in particular, are a grand affair, stretching across multiple days with colourful ceremonies such as the mehendi (a pre-wedding celebration marked by music and henna rituals).
These events reflect the country’s love for festivity and celebration, bringing together extended families in joyous union.
Pakistan is one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality leather, renowned for its craftsmanship and durability.
The country’s leather industry, which dates back centuries, has evolved into a significant contributor to its economy.
Premium leather goods such as footwear, garments, bags and accessories are exported to markets worldwide.
Cities like Karachi, Sialkot and Lahore serve as major hubs for leather production, with skilled artisans blending traditional tanning techniques with modern technology.
Pakistani leather is particularly valued for its rich texture and fine finishing, making it a preferred choice for luxury brands and global retailers.
For many, Pakistan is synonymous with its tantalising cuisine – a blend of Mughal opulence, Persian flavours and regional specialities.
At its heart lies an array of aromatic spices, slow-cooked meats and decadent sweets.
One cannot speak of Pakistani food without mentioning biryani, a fragrant rice dish layered with marinated meat and infused with saffron and cardamom.
Then there is nihari, a rich, slow-cooked stew of beef or mutton, best enjoyed with fresh naan or paratha.
The country’s love for street food is equally remarkable, with snacks such as gol gappay (crispy, hollow puris filled with spicy tamarind water) and chana chaat (a tangy chickpea salad) being widely popular.
For those with a sweet tooth, Pakistani desserts offer a delightful treat. From the syrupy warmth of gulab jamun, these traditional sweets reflect the nation’s penchant for indulgence.
Beyond its culinary excellence, Pakistan boasts a thriving cultural scene, rich in music, art, and literature.
Traditional folk music, featuring instruments like the rubab and tabla, continues to thrive alongside contemporary pop and rock.
Sufi music, particularly qawwali – immortalised by legendary artists like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan – remains an emotive experience, drawing audiences worldwide.
Literature also plays a pivotal role in Pakistani identity, with luminaries such as Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Mohsin Hamid earning global acclaim.
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