Sindhi

Sindhi people

Total population
30 million (approx.)
Regions with significant populations
Sindh	25 million (approx.)
India	2.5 million (approx.)
Diaspora	Various
Languages
Sindhi
Religion
Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism
Related ethnic groups
Baloch, Rajasthani

The Sindhi people are an ethnic group native to the Sindh province of Pakistan. They are known for their rich cultural heritage, which includes a unique language, Sindhi, and a vibrant tradition in arts, music, and cuisine. The Sindhi community has a significant diaspora, particularly in India, where they migrated during the Partition of India in 1947.

History

The history of the Sindhi people is deeply intertwined with the history of the Sindh region, which has been a cradle of civilization since the time of the Indus Valley Civilization. Over the centuries, Sindh has seen various rulers and dynasties, including the Arabs, Mughals, and British, each leaving a distinct imprint on the region's culture and its people.

Language

The primary language of the Sindhi people is Sindhi, an Indo-Aryan language. It is written in a unique script derived from the Arabic script, with additional letters to accommodate special sounds. Sindhi is known for its vast literature, including poetry and prose that date back to the medieval period.

Culture

Sindhi culture is celebrated for its distinct music, dance, and art. Traditional Sindhi music includes a variety of instruments, such as the tambura, harmonium, and dholak. The Sindhi folk dance, known as Ho Jamalo, is popular in both Pakistan and India.

Cuisine

Sindhi cuisine is characterized by its flavorful and spicy dishes. Some popular Sindhi dishes include Sindhi biryani, Sai bhaji (spinach curry), and Aloo tuk (crispy fried potatoes).

Religion

The Sindhi community is religiously diverse. While the majority of Sindhis in Pakistan are Muslims, a significant number of Sindhis in India practice Hinduism. There are also small communities of Sindhi Sikhs and Christians.

Diaspora

The Sindhi diaspora is spread across various countries, with significant populations in United Arab Emirates, United States, and United Kingdom. The migration has led to the spread of Sindhi culture and traditions globally, with international Sindhi festivals and events celebrating Sindhi heritage.

See also

• Sindh
• Sindhi literature
• Sindhi music
• Sindhi cuisine