Pashtuns

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Pashtuns (also known as Pathans, Pukhtuns, or Pakhtuns) are an ethnic group native to Afghanistan and Pakistan. They primarily speak Pashto, an Iranian language of the Indo-Iranian branch. The Pashtuns are the largest ethnic group in Afghanistan and the second-largest in Pakistan.

Etymology

The term "Pashtun" is derived from the Persian word "Pashtūn" or "Paxtūn," which is believed to have originated from the ancient term "Pakhtana."

History

The history of the Pashtuns is intertwined with the history of Afghanistan and Pakistan. They have been mentioned in various historical texts, including the works of Herodotus and Al-Biruni. The Pashtuns have played a significant role in the region's history, particularly during the Durrani Empire and the Mughal Empire.

Culture

Pashtun culture is rich and diverse, with a strong emphasis on Pashtunwali, a traditional code of conduct that includes principles such as hospitality, asylum, and justice. The Pashtuns are known for their traditional music, dance, and poetry, particularly the works of Khushal Khan Khattak and Rahman Baba.

Pashtunwali

Pashtunwali is the traditional lifestyle and code of conduct of the Pashtun people. It includes various principles such as:

• Melmastia (hospitality)
• Nanawatai (asylum)
• Badal (justice/revenge)
• Tureh (bravery)
• Sabat (loyalty)
• Imandari (righteousness)
• Ghayrat (self-honor)
• Nang (honor)

Geography

Pashtuns primarily inhabit the region known as Pashtunistan, which spans across southeastern Afghanistan and northwestern Pakistan. Major cities with significant Pashtun populations include Kabul, Kandahar, Peshawar, and Quetta.

Demographics

The Pashtuns are estimated to number around 50 million people, with the majority living in Pakistan and Afghanistan. They are divided into various tribes and sub-tribes, each with its own distinct identity and customs.

Notable Pashtuns

• Ahmad Shah Durrani - Founder of the Durrani Empire
• Malala Yousafzai - Nobel Prize laureate and education activist
• Hamid Karzai - Former President of Afghanistan
• Imran Khan - Prime Minister of Pakistan and former cricketer

Related Pages

• Pashto
• Pashtunistan
• Durrani Empire
• Pashtunwali
• Khyber Pass
• Afghanistan
• Pakistan