Culture of Punjab

 -By Jigya Jain

Punjab has one of the oldest and richest cultures of the world. Its diversity and uniqueness is evident in the Punjabi poetry, philosophy, spirituality, education, artistry, music, cuisine, science, technology, military warfare, architecture, traditions, values and history.

Punjabis celebrate numerous religious and seasonal festivals, such as Dussehra, Diwali, Baisakhi, and many more. There are numerous anniversary celebrations as well in honour of the Gurus (the 10 religious leaders of Sikhism) and various saints. Expressing happiness and gaiety through dance is a typical feature of such festivities, with bhangra, jhumar, and sammi being among the most popular genres. Giddha, a native Punjabi tradition, is a humorous song-and-dance genre performed by women. In addition to Sikh religious music, semi-classical Mughal forms, such as the khyal dance and the thumri, ghazal, and qawwali vocal performance genres, continue to be popular.

The traditional dress for Punjabi men is ‘Punjabi Kurta’ and ‘Tehmat’, especially the popular Muktsari style, which is being replaced by the kurta and pajama in the modern day Punjab. The traditional dress for women is the Punjabi Salwar Suit which replaced the traditional Punjabi Ghagra. The Patiala salwar is also very popular.

 Punjabi cuisine is a culinary style originating in the Punjab, a region in the northern part of South Asia, which is now divided in an Indian part to the east and a Pakistani part to the west. This cuisine has a rich tradition of many distinct and local ways of cooking.

Dishes like Sarson Da Saag, Tandoori Chicken, Shami Kebab, Makki di Roti, etc. are some Punjabi dishes that rule over the hearts of all food lovers. The culinary practices of the state are simple, rustic, yet exotic in their own way.

Also known as the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest state that is home to three spectacular World UNESCO Heritage Sites, picturesque landscapes, and amazing wildlife. Boasting a rich cultural heritage and stunning topography, the centrally located state is quite popular amongst historians, archaeologists, and tourists from all over the world. With a myriad range of cultural festivals, there's a lot to explore in Madhya Pradesh as it is one of the richest tourist destinations in India. The capital city, Bhopal is also famous for many historical and archaeological sites and recreational activities.

Since people here are both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, you will find a wide range of delectable dishes. Indori Poha is a popular breakfast that shouldn't be missed. The most iconic vegetarian dishes of Madhya Pradesh are bhutte ki kees, dal bafla, palak poori, chakki ki shaak which are truly delightful. Some of the most popular non-vegetarian dishes include gosht korma from Bhopal, seekh kebabs, biryani pilaf, and Murgh Rezala. Sweet savouries such as malpua, mawa-bati, khoya jalebi, badkul, shrikhand, chikki, etc are definitely going to make you ask for more.