Pathans: The caste of Sindhi Pathan (پٺاڻ)
The Pathan caste, originally from the mountainous regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Afghanistan, has established a strong presence in Sindh, particularly in its urban and rural areas. While the لا لا (Lala) are often identified by their distinct ethnic and cultural identity, their role in Sindh’s socio-economic landscape is significant, with a variety of businesses and practices that set them apart. In Sindhi, Pathans are referred to as “لا لو” (Lalo) or “لا لا” (Lala) , signifying respect and familiarity within the community.
Business Activities: A Blend of Tradition and Commerce
The Pathans have made notable contributions to the local economy, especially through their diverse business activities. One of the most common businesses among Lala in rural areas is the sale of clothes. Traditionally, (لا لا)Lala have been known to sell garments on credit to Sindhi people, a practice that has fostered long-standing relationships within rural communities.
In the past, Lala پٺاڻ would travel by bicycle to reach remote villages, offering goods on credit and establishing a bond of trust with the local population. However, with time, this method has evolved, and nowadays, many Pathan travel by bike to reach these villages, continuing the tradition of credit sales.
In urban areas, Sindhi-Lala have successfully established themselves in the dry fruit business. Cities like Karachi, Hyderabad, and Sukkur are home to a number of Pathans owned dry fruit shops, where they sell a variety of products such as nuts, dried fruits, and spices. These businesses are not only profitable but have become an integral part of the local economy, providing customers with high-quality, fresh products.
Hospitality and Hoteling: A Traditional Craft
Another area where Pathan has excelled is in the hospitality and restaurant business. Known for their hospitality and excellent culinary skills, many Pathan پٺاڻ have opened restaurants and hotels in Sindh’s urban centers. These establishments range from simple roadside eateries to more sophisticated hotels, where Lala serve traditional food and tea, attracting a wide variety of customers.
Pathans are also well-known for running “bypaass hotels,” which are informal roadside eateries catering to travelers. These hotels offer a range of local dishes and are popular stops for people on the move. The specialty of these establishments is the tea, which Pathans are famous for preparing with a distinct style that sets them apart from others in the region.
Their tea is a hallmark of their hospitality, and many cities in Sindh have hotels that serve it, creating a unique cultural experience for customers. In addition to their businesses, Pathan is renowned for their hard work in the labor-intensive sectors of construction and roadwork.
These individuals are often hired for difficult and physically demanding tasks, including road construction, heavy labor, and work in the building industry. Many Pathan have invested in heavy machinery, contributing to the construction of key infrastructure projects. They are highly regarded for their work ethic, resilience, and ability to handle the most challenging tasks.
What stands out about the Pathan is their strong aversion to begging. Unlike some other ethnic groups, such as the Syed Shah caste, who may resort to begging, the Pathans are known for their hard work and dignity. They are often seen working in difficult and physically demanding jobs, such as in brick kilns, as cobblers, or in construction.
The Pathan caste values self-reliance and prefers to earn an honest living rather than rely on alms, making them stand out for their industriousness and perseverance.
Cultural Identity: Language, Style, and Customs
The Pathan caste in Sindh has managed to maintain its distinct cultural identity despite living in a predominantly Sindhi-speaking region. While many Pathan speak Sindhi fluently, they do so in a very clear and distinct accent, often mixing it with Pashto words or expressions. This blend of languages helps preserve their Pashtun heritage while facilitating their integration into Sindhi society.
A unique feature of the Pathan caste is their distinct way of wearing the topi (cap). While Sindhi men wear the topi in a particular style, Pathan has his own variation, which is often seen as a sign of their identity. This cultural difference in attire is one of the many ways in which the Pathans maintain their unique traditions in Sindh.
Pathan females are known for their strict adherence to traditions, often remaining in pardah (veil) and maintaining strong family values and cultural practices.
Pathans are known for their strict adherence to Islamic principles. They pray five times a day, fast during Ramadan, and follow religious practices rigorously. In contrast, many Sindhis tend to be more liberal and secular in their approach to religion. While they occasionally pray and observe fasting, they also frequently visit saint shrines like Qalandar and Shah Bhitai, seeking blessings.
Pathans, however, generally do not participate in such practices, focusing more on traditional Islamic worship and avoiding practices outside of their strict religious framework.
Notable Pathans from Sindh include Agha Siraj Durrani, Speaker of the Sindh Assembly; Nuzhat Pathan, politician; Bilal Abbas Khan, actor; Sahir Lodhi, actor; Shaista Lodhi, doctor and TV host; and Rafiq Ghaznavi, musician and actor from the British Indian era.
Conclusion: A Vital Caste in Sindh’s Social and Economic Fabric
The Pathan caste in Sindh has become an integral part of the region’s social and economic fabric. From selling clothes on credit in rural villages to running thriving businesses in urban centers, their contributions are manifold. Whether it’s in the realm of hospitality, construction, or labor-intensive work, Pathan continue to leave an indelible mark on Sindh.
Despite challenges, the Pathan caste’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit have allowed them to thrive, contributing not only to the local economy but also to the rich cultural diversity of Sindh. Their distinct cultural identity, clear Sindhi, traditional style, hospitality, and hard work—along with their strong stance against begging—make them a respected and valued group within the province.