Language/Central-pashto/Culture/Traditional-Clothing

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Central PashtoCulture0 to A1 Course → Pashtun Customs and Traditions → Traditional Clothing

Introduction[edit | edit source]

In this lesson, we will explore the rich tradition of Pashtun clothing, which holds great importance in Pashtun culture. Clothing plays a significant role in expressing one's identity, cultural heritage, and social status. Understanding the various types of traditional clothing worn by Pashtuns, both men and women, will provide valuable insights into the Pashtun way of life. By the end of this lesson, you will have a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of Pashtun attire and be able to identify different clothing items worn by Pashtuns.

Historical Background[edit | edit source]

The Pashtuns, also known as Pakhtuns, are an ethnic group primarily living in Afghanistan and Pakistan. They have a long and proud history dating back thousands of years. Pashtun clothing has evolved over time, influenced by various factors such as climate, geography, and cultural interactions with neighboring regions.

Traditional Pashtun clothing reflects the nomadic lifestyle of the Pashtuns, with an emphasis on practicality, durability, and comfort. The clothing is typically made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk, which are readily available in the region. Pashtun garments are known for their vibrant colors, intricate embroidery, and exquisite craftsmanship, showcasing the artistic skills of the Pashtun people.

Traditional Clothing for Men[edit | edit source]

Khet Partug[edit | edit source]

One of the most iconic garments worn by Pashtun men is the Khet Partug. It consists of a long shirt-like garment called a Khet and loose pants known as Partug. The Khet is usually made of cotton and reaches below the knees, while the Partug is wide-legged and reaches the ankles. The Khet Partug is often worn with a waistcoat, known as Waskat, made of silk or velvet, and a turban called a Pakol. Pashtun men also wear a wide belt, called a Lungee, around their waist to secure their clothing.

Central Pashto Pronunciation English
کهټ پرتوګ Khet Partug Khet Partug
کهټ Khet Shirt-like garment
پرتوګ Partug Loose pants
وسکت Waskat Waistcoat
پکول Pakol Turban
لنګي Lungee Wide belt

Perahan and Shalwar[edit | edit source]

Another common outfit for Pashtun men is the Perahan and Shalwar. The Perahan is a loose-fitting, knee-length shirt with long sleeves, usually made of cotton. The Shalwar is a loose-fitting trouser with a drawstring waist, worn underneath the Perahan. Pashtun men often pair this attire with a waistcoat, known as a Waskat, and a turban, called a Pakol.

Central Pashto Pronunciation English
پېړهان او شلوار Perahan au Shalwar Perahan and Shalwar
پېړهان Perahan Loose-fitting shirt
شلوار Shalwar Loose-fitting trouser
وسکت Waskat Waistcoat
پکول Pakol Turban

Traditional Clothing for Women[edit | edit source]

Kameez and Gagra[edit | edit source]

For Pashtun women, the traditional attire consists of a long tunic called a Kameez and a wide skirt known as a Gagra. The Kameez is typically made of cotton or silk and is adorned with intricate embroidery and mirror work. The Gagra is a full-length skirt, often made of vibrant, flowing fabrics. Pashtun women also wear a headscarf called a Dopatta or a Chaddar to cover their heads.

Central Pashto Pronunciation English
کميز او ګاگره Kameez au Gagra Kameez and Gagra
کميز Kameez Long tunic
ګاگره Gagra Wide skirt
دوپټه Dopatta Headscarf
چدر Chaddar Headscarf

Peshwas[edit | edit source]

The Peshwas is a traditional Pashtun dress worn by women for special occasions and weddings. It consists of a heavily embroidered, floor-length dress with wide sleeves. The dress is usually made of silk or chiffon and is embellished with intricate beadwork and sequins. Pashtun women also wear a headpiece called a Matha Patti and jewelry, such as earrings and necklaces, to complete the traditional Peshwas attire.

Central Pashto Pronunciation English
پيشواس Peshwas Peshwas
مټا پټي Matha Patti Headpiece
زيرينکه Zerinkha Earrings
گداخوښه Gidakhoza Necklace

Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]

Pashtun clothing is not merely a fashion statement; it holds deep cultural and historical significance. It serves as a visual representation of Pashtun identity and heritage. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the garments reflect the Pashtun people's love for beauty and artistry.

Traditional clothing is also associated with specific occasions and events in Pashtun culture. For example, the Peshwas is worn by Pashtun brides on their wedding day, symbolizing purity and elegance. The Khet Partug and Perahan and Shalwar are worn on religious and festive occasions, showcasing the wearer's respect for tradition and cultural values.

Regional Variations[edit | edit source]

While Pashtun clothing has some common features across the region, there are also regional variations in style, fabric, and embroidery patterns. For example, in the northern regions of Afghanistan, Pashtun men often wear a long, woolen cloak called a Chapan, which provides warmth in the cold mountainous climate. In the southern regions, Pashtun women wear a loose-fitting, embroidered dress called a Firaq.

The regional variations in Pashtun clothing reflect the diverse geography and cultural influences within the Pashtun community. These variations add to the richness and uniqueness of Pashtun culture, making it a fascinating subject of study for anthropologists and historians.

Exercises[edit | edit source]

1. Match the Pashto clothing term with its English translation:

  • کهټ پرتوګ
  • پېړهان او شلوار
  • کميز او ګاگره
  • پيشواس

a. Perahan and Shalwar b. Peshwas c. Khet Partug d. Kameez and Gagra

Solution:

  • کهټ پرتوګ - c. Khet Partug
  • پېړهان او شلوار - a. Perahan and Shalwar
  • کميز او ګاگره - d. Kameez and Gagra
  • پيشواس - b. Peshwas

2. Describe the traditional clothing worn by Pashtun men and women for a wedding ceremony.

Solution: For a wedding ceremony, Pashtun men typically wear a Khet Partug, consisting of a long shirt-like garment called a Khet and loose pants known as Partug. They pair this with a waistcoat, known as a Waskat, and a turban called a Pakol. Pashtun women wear a traditional dress called a Peshwas, which is a heavily embroidered, floor-length dress with wide sleeves. They also wear a headpiece called a Matha Patti and jewelry, such as earrings and necklaces.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Traditional Pashtun clothing is an integral part of Pashtun culture, showcasing the rich heritage and artistic skills of the Pashtun people. The clothing worn by Pashtuns, both men and women, holds deep cultural and historical significance. By understanding the different types of traditional clothing and their significance, we gain a deeper appreciation for the Pashtun way of life and their unique cultural identity.

With their vibrant colors, intricate embroidery, and exquisite craftsmanship, Pashtun garments are not only aesthetically pleasing but also reflect the values and traditions of the Pashtun community. Whether it's the Khet Partug, Perahan and Shalwar, or the Peshwas, each garment tells a story and represents a part of Pashtun culture that has been passed down through generations.

By immersing ourselves in the study of Pashtun clothing, we not only gain knowledge about a specific aspect of Pashtun culture but also develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity and beauty of the world's cultures as a whole.

Table of Contents - Central Pashto Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Greetings and Introductions


Personal Pronouns


Numbers and Counting


Basic Sentence Structure


Common Verbs


Present Tense


Food and Drink


Questions


Family and Relationships


Possessive Pronouns and Adjectives


House and Home


Prepositions


Hobbies and Activities


Past Tense


Travel and Transportation


Pashtun Customs and Traditions



Other Lessons[edit | edit source]



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