Sindh People: Traditions, Hospitality, and Modern Identity

Sind, a historical region in South Asia, is home to the Sindhi people, an ethnic group with a deep-rooted heritage dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization. The Sindhi people have preserved their unique identity, culture, and traditions despite various foreign influences, including Persian, Arab, and British rule.

The Sindh people community is known for its rich cultural legacy, adaptability, and resilience. Their language, customs, and way of life reflect a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. Sindh people have historically been merchants, traders, agriculturists, and scholars, contributing significantly to the socio-economic and cultural landscape of the region.

Sindhi Origin

The Sindh people are considered one of the oldest ethnic groups in South Asia. Their history is deeply intertwined with the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished along the banks of the Indus River. The ancient cities of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, major centers of this civilization, highlight the early advancements of Sindh people in urban planning, trade, and governance.

Throughout history, Sind has witnessed various rulers and influences:

Greek Influence (4th Century BCE): Alexander the Great invaded Sind in 326 BCE.
Persian Rule (6th Century BCE): Sind was part of the Achaemenid Empire.
Arab Rule (8th Century CE): Muhammad bin Qasim’s conquest in 711 CE introduced Islam and significantly shaped Sind’s cultural and religious landscape.
Mughal and British Rule: Sind later became part of the Mughal Empire and then came under British colonial rule in the 19th century before joining Pakistan in 1947.

Physical Characteristics

Ajrak Topi Waro exhibit a range of complexions, from wheatish to fair skin tones, reflecting a mix of indigenous South Asian and Middle Eastern influences. Due to Sind’s geographical location and historical migrations, skin tones vary across regions, with people from rural areas often having slightly darker complexions due to prolonged sun exposure, while those from urban areas may have lighter skin tones.

Height and Build

Ajrak Waro generally have an average to tall height, with men typically ranging between 5’6″ to 5’10” and women between 5’2″ to 5’6″. The build varies depending on lifestyle, with rural Sindhi persons often having a more robust physique due to agricultural labor, while urban Sindhis may have a leaner build influenced by modern work environments.

Haji Mohammad Alam Channa (1954 – 2 July 1998) was one of the tallest men in history, standing at 7.8 feet (2.4 meters). Recognized by the Guinness World Records, he was the tallest living man from 1982 to 1998.

Facial Features

Sindhis are known for their distinct and well-defined facial features, which often include:

High cheekbones and broad foreheads, giving a strong facial structure.
Deep-set or almond-shaped eyes, often brown or black, which reflect a sharp and expressive look.
Straight or slightly wavy hair, usually black or dark brown, though some families have inherited lighter shades due to historical migrations.
Well-defined noses, varying from straight to slightly curved, adding to their prominent facial structure.

These features, combined with their traditional attire and cultural identity, make Sindhis easily recognizable across the South Asian region and beyond.

Lifestyle and Living Preferences

Urban Life: Major cities like Karachi, Hyderabad, and Sukkur are economic and cultural hubs. Urban Sindhis are more engaged in business, trade, government jobs, and professional careers. They have access to modern amenities such as advanced healthcare, education, and technology. Urban areas are diverse and cosmopolitan, with Sindhis coexisting with people from various ethnic backgrounds.
Rural Life: Rural Ajrak topi Waro primarily depend on agriculture, livestock, and handicrafts for their livelihood. Villages are closely-knit communities where people live in extended families, and traditional values are deeply preserved. Rural life is more peaceful, with a strong connection to nature, but it often lacks basic facilities like healthcare and quality education.

Despite differences, both urban and rural people of Sind uphold their cultural heritage and strong sense of community.

Housing and Settlements :Housing of Sindh people varies based on location and socio-economic status:

Urban Housing: Cities have modern housing options, including apartments, bungalows, and gated communities. Wealthier families live in well-furnished houses with contemporary designs, while middle-class and lower-income families reside in flats or smaller homes.
Rural Housing: Traditional rural homes are made from mud, clay, and thatched roofs to maintain insulation in extreme weather conditions. Some houses have courtyards for social gatherings and livestock keeping. Wealthier landowners in rural areas may have brick or cement houses.

The architecture of Sindhi people settlements often reflects ancient influences, with old cities having narrow alleys, mosques, and markets resembling historic trade centers.

Eating habits of Sindh people

Sindhi food is rich, flavorful, and diverse, influenced by local agriculture, climate, and cultural heritage. The cuisine includes:

Staple Foods: Wheat, rice, lentils, and vegetables form the base of traditional meals. Bread like phulka, roti, and naan is commonly eaten with curries.
Popular Dishes:
- Sindhi Biryani: A spiced rice dish with meat, potatoes, and yogurt.
- Sai Bhaji: A nutritious mix of lentils, spinach, and vegetables.
- Sindhi Kadahi: A tangy, gram-flour-based curry with vegetables, often served with rice.
- Seviyan (Vermicelli Dessert): A sweet dish made with milk, cardamom, and nuts.
Beverages: Lassi (yogurt-based drink), Thadal (cooling summer drink), and Chai (tea) are widely consumed.

Sind’s food is known for its bold flavors, balanced use of spices, and emphasis on home-cooked meals. Special occasions and gatherings feature elaborate feasts, showcasing the hospitality and love for food that define their culture.

This nation is known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. Guests are treated with great respect, and offering food and drinks is considered a social duty. In both urban and rural settings, they believe in Atithi Devo Bhava (Guest is God), ensuring that visitors feel at home. Tea, sweets, and home-cooked meals are common gestures of hospitality.

Family Structure and Community Bonding

The joint family system is widely practiced in their society. Families live together, sharing responsibilities and maintaining strong family ties. Elders are highly respected, and decisions are often made collectively. Community bonding is also strong, with people helping each other in times of need, especially in rural areas.

Festivals and Celebrations

They celebrate both religious and cultural festivals with enthusiasm. Major celebrations include:

Cultural Day: Celebrated on the first Sunday of December, showcasing traditional music, dance, and attire.
Eid-ul-Fitr & Eid-ul-Adha: Religious celebrations marked by feasts and prayers.
Diwali & Holi: Observed by Hindus Sindh people with lights, colors, and joy.
Cheti Chand: The Sindh people’s New Year, honoring Jhulelal, the community’s spiritual figure.

Clothing Styles of Sindh People

Clothing of Sindh people reflects the region’s cultural heritage, climate, and traditional values. Both men and women in Sindh wear Shalwar Kamis, that is comfortable, vibrant, and suited to the hot and dry climate.

Men’s Clothing: Traditional attire of Sindh people includes the shalwar kameez, often in light fabrics like cotton to combat the heat. Many men also wear waistcoats over their kameez, particularly on formal occasions. In rural areas, men sometimes wear loose turbans or caps along with their traditional dress.
Women’s Clothing: Sindhi women traditionally wear colorful ghararas, lehengas, or shalwar kameez adorned with intricate embroidery, mirror work, and beadwork. The dupatta (veil or scarf) is an essential part of their attire, often draped elegantly over the head and shoulders. Rural women, especially in Tharparkar, also wear cholis (blouses) with long skirts decorated with hand-stitched patterns.

Ajrak and Sindhi Topi: Sindh peoples most iconic symbols of cultural identity are the Ajrak and the traditional topi, both deeply rooted in the region’s history and traditions.

Ajrak: Ajrak is a block-printed fabric that is centuries old, featuring intricate patterns in red, black, white, and blue. It is made through a labor-intensive process involving natural dyes and traditional hand-printing techniques. Ajrak is worn as a shawl, turban, or drape, used by both men and women. It is often presented as a gesture of respect and hospitality.
Sindhi Topi: The cap (ٹوپي) is a round, intricately embroidered cap, often in deep red or maroon colors. It is traditionally worn by Sindh people and is considered a symbol of honor, wisdom, and cultural pride. The cap is often paired with Ajrak during celebrations, official ceremonies, and gatherings.

Embroidery & Mirror Work: Sindhi women create hand-embroidered fabrics with mirror work, often used for dresses, wall hangings, and home décor. The famous traditional ralli (patchwork quilts) showcase stunning geometric patterns.
Pottery & Ceramics: Artisans craft clay pots, tiles, and ceramics, often decorated with floral and geometric motifs. The Hala pottery of Sindh people is particularly renowned.
Lacquer Work (Jandi Work): Artisans in Sind create lacquer-painted woodwork, producing items such as furniture, jewelry boxes, and utensils.
Weaving & Carpet Making: Craftsmanship of Sindh people include handwoven carpets and textiles, admired for their durability and beauty.

Language of Sindh People

Sindhi mother tongue is one of the oldest languages in South Asia, with a rich linguistic heritage dating back thousands of years. It is an Indo-Aryan language spoken primarily in Sind province, Pakistan, but also by Sindhi communities worldwide, especially in India, the UAE, the UK, and the US. it has a vast vocabulary, influenced by Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian, and Dravidian languages. It is known for its soft pronunciation, poetic nature, and rhythmic flow, making it well-suited for poetry and literature. Its an official language of Sind

Sindhi Literature Today

literature of Sindh people continues to thrive through books, poetry, newspapers, digital media, and cultural forums. Modern local writers explore social issues, Sufism, love, history, and philosophy, keeping the language and culture alive.

Famous Writers and Poets

Sind has produced some of the most influential poets, scholars, and writers, who have contributed to literature, mysticism, and philosophy like

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (1689–1752) – The most revered Sufi poet, known for his masterpiece Shah Jo Risalo, which expresses themes of love, devotion, Sufism, and nature.
Sachal Sarmast (1739–1829) – A mystic poet who wrote in Sindhi, Persian, and Saraiki, advocating spiritual unity and love.
Sami (1743–1850) – A saint-poet, known for his philosophical verses that encourage self-awareness and spiritual enlightenment.

Modern Writers and Poets

Sheikh Ayaz (1923–1997) – A revolutionary poet and writer who modernized local poetry, bringing nationalist and progressive themes into literature.
Ustad Bukhari (1930–1992) – Famous for his romantic and nationalist poetry, promoting Sindh peoples identity and love for the land.
Gul Khan Naseer (1914–1983) – A poet and historian known for his progressive and political writings advocating freedom and human rights.
Ghulam Rabbani Agro (1933–2010) – A scholar, historian, and short story writer who made major contributions to literature of Sindh people and folklore studies.

Music, Dance, and Folklore

Sind has a rich musical tradition, deeply influenced by folk culture, Sufism, and poetry. Music and dance are integral to life of Sindh people, reflecting love, spirituality, and social themes.

Traditional Musical Instruments: Folk music of Sindh people is incomplete without its unique traditional instruments, many of which have been used for centuries in Sufi gatherings, folk songs, and celebrations. Some of the most popular instruments include:

Yaktaro

A one-stringed instrument, played by plucking.
It is commonly used in Sufi music, especially in the recitation of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai’s poetry.
Played alongside Damburo, it is an essential part of folk culture of Sindh people.

Tamburo

A string instrument that produces rhythmic, melodic tunes.
Often played with Yaktaro in Sufi and folk music.

Alghoza

A wind instrument consisting of two flute-like pipes played simultaneously.
Common in Sindhi, Balochi, and Punjabi folk music, creating a hypnotic effect.
Mostly used by shepherds and folk musicians.

Yaktara

A single-stringed instrument associated with wandering minstrels and Sufi saints.
Creates a deep, soulful sound, often used in spiritual music.

Dhuhl Sarnayon (Drum beating)

Dhol is a large double-sided drum, played with sticks, producing deep rhythmic beats.
Dholak is a smaller hand drum, used in folk songs, traditional dances, and storytelling.

Folk Songs of Sindh People: Sindhi folk music is filled with emotional depth, poetic expressions, and cultural themes. Folk songs are passed down through generations, keeping Sindh’s history and traditions alive.

Famous local and international folk singers include Jalal Chandio, Allan Faqir, Abida Parveen, and Mai Bhaghi, who have kept the folk music tradition strong.

Sufi Influence in Music of Sindh People

Sufi music has a deep spiritual and mystical connection in Indus culture. It is inspired by the poetry of Sufi saints like Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, Sachal Sarmast, and Sami.

Shah Jo Risalo, the poetic work of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, is often recited in Sufi gatherings with musical accompaniment.
Kafi is a traditional Sufi music genre, sung in praise of love, divine wisdom, and unity with God.
Sufi singers like Allan Faqir and Abida Parveen have spread Sufi music to international audiences.

Sufi music is often performed at shrines and festivals, creating a trance-like atmosphere, where listeners experience spiritual elevation and emotional connection.

Dance Forms

Jhoomar (جهومر)

It is a group dance, performed by both men and women, moving in a circular formation. Dancers sway gracefully, moving their arms and hands in rhythm with Dhol beats. The name “Jhoomar” comes from “Jhoomna,” meaning to sway or swing, reflecting the flowing movements of the dance.

Ho Jamalo (هُو جمالو )

A victory and celebration dance, performed during festivals and cultural events.
Accompanied by clapping, singing, and drum beats.
The song “Ho Jamalo” is a famous patriotic anthem, often performed to honor heroes and warriors.

Dhamal (ڌمال)

A Sufi-inspired dance, performed at shrines and religious gatherings.
Dancers move in rhythmic, trance-like circles, expressing spiritual devotion and connection to God.
Commonly performed during Urs (death anniversary celebrations) of Sufi saints.

Wrestling (ڪُشتي)

A traditional sport and dance of Sindh People, where wrestlers perform a pre-match dance before competing.
The dance involves jumping, clapping, and chest-thumping, showcasing strength and pride.

Global Presence of Sindhis

Sindhis are a globally spread community with a rich cultural heritage and strong connections to their ancestral homeland. Their history, migration patterns, and economic contributions have shaped their presence in Pakistan, India, and several other countries.

Pakistanis Sindhis

Sindh is one of Pakistan’s four provinces, and Sindh people form the major ethnic group in the region. With a history dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization, they have played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s history, politics, economy, and culture.

They make up around 30-35% of Pakistan’s total population.
The majority live in rural areas, while Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Larkana are key urban centers.
Sindh people are primarily Muslims (Sunni & Shia), but Hindu form a significant minority, especially in districts like Tharparkar, Umerkot, and Mirpurkhas.

Sindhi in India

After the Partition of India in 1947, a large number of Sindh people migrated to India, as Sindh became part of Pakistan. Despite leaving their homeland, Hindus in India have preserved their cultural identity and excelled in business, education, and politics.

An estimated 1.5 to 2 million Sindh people migrated to India during Partition.
They settled in cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Indore, Jaipur, and Delhi.
Many faced initial hardships, as they had to start their lives from scratch.

Sindhi language in India is still spoken but faces challenges due to lack of official recognition and assimilation into Hindi/Gujarati-speaking cultures.
Festivals like Cheti Chand (A New Year), Diwali, and Jhulelal Jayanti are celebrated with enthusiasm.
Sindhi food, attire, and traditions continue to be preserved through community organizations and cultural events.

Sindh peoples around the World

Sindh people have migrated globally, establishing vibrant communities in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. These diaspora communities maintain business networks, cultural traditions, and religious practices, making them an important part of the global Sindhi identity.

Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait)

A large number of Sindh people live in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, primarily engaged in trade, finance, and business.
Dubai has a strong business community, running successful enterprises in gold, textiles, electronics, and real estate.
Many Sindhis in the Gulf are expats working in corporate and service sectors.

United Kingdom & Europe

The UK has a significant Sindhi community, especially in cities like London, Leicester, and Manchester.
Sindh people in the UK have excelled in business, finance, medicine, and academia.
Other European countries like Spain, France, and Italy have smaller Sindhi communities involved in trade and entrepreneurship.

United States & Canada

Sindh people in North America are primarily businesspeople, IT professionals, doctors, and engineers.
Cities like New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Vancouver have active Sindh peoples associations.
Sindh people in the US and Canada focus on community building, language preservation, and business networking.

Africa (Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria)

Sindh people have been in Africa since the 19th century, engaging in trade, manufacturing, and finance.
Cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, Johannesburg, and Durban have thriving Sindhi communities.
Some Sindh people in Africa faced challenges during political changes, such as the expulsion of Indians from Uganda in the 1970s.

Southeast Asia (Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand)

Many native businessmen moved to Hong Kong, Singapore, and Indonesia in the early 20th century, engaging in textile, gold, and electronics trading.
Hong Kong still has a strong Sindh peoples presence, with successful entrepreneurs running multinational businesses.
In Thailand and Malaysia, Sindh people are active in hospitality, real estate, and commerce

Sindhis as Global Business Leaders: Entrepreneurs have built business empires not only in Pakistan but also in Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, and the US. Notable business groups include:

Hinduja Group (UK, India) – A multi-billion dollar conglomerate.
Jethmalani and Associates (Dubai, UAE) – A major player in finance and real estate.
Sindhi traders in Hong Kong and Indonesia – Dominating the textile and electronics trade.

Sindh people have a reputation for risk-taking, networking, and business acumen, helping them succeed in diverse markets.

Sindh people in Professional Careers: With increasing education levels, they are excelling in medicine, law, engineering, and corporate sectors. Many hold positions as:

Doctors and pharmacists (working in hospitals in Pakistan and abroad).
Engineers and architects (leading infrastructure and development projects).
Professors and educators (teaching at prestigious institutions).
Lawyers and judges (serving in Pakistan’s judicial system).

Women in Business and Professions: Native women have made great strides in education, business, and professional careers. Many are working as:

Entrepreneurs and business owners in fashion, beauty, and startups.
Doctors and health professionals, especially in Karachi and Hyderabad.
Teachers, lawyers, and social activists, advocating for women’s rights.

Sindhis have always been economically active and forward-thinking, whether in agriculture, trade, business, or modern industries. Their entrepreneurial mindset and adaptability have allowed them to thrive both in Pakistan and internationally, making them a key part of the global economy.

Sufism, Saints, and Sindhi Religion

Sindh has long been a center of Sufism and religious harmony, earning the title “Babul Islam” (Gateway to Islam) due to its historical role in spreading Islamic teachings in the subcontinent. The region is home to numerous Sufi saints, shrines, and spiritual traditions, fostering a culture of tolerance, coexistence, and mysticism.

Alongside Islam, Sindh has been historically diverse, with Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and Parsis contributing to its rich cultural and religious heritage. Sindh has historically been a melting pot of religions, where people of different faiths have coexisted peacefully for centuries.

Islam

Sunni Muslims make up the majority of Sindh’s population and seculars.
Shia Muslims have a significant presence, with many shrines and religious centers.
Sufi Islam is deeply rooted in Mehran culture, influencing local traditions and beliefs.

Hindus: A Strong Cultural Presence

Sindh has a large Hindu community, particularly in Tharparkar, Umerkot, and Karachi.

Many Hindus follow Bhagwan Jhulelal, their spiritual guide.
Cheti Chand (Sindhi New Year) is their most important festival.
Hindus are known for their contributions to business, education, and philanthropy.

Sindhi Leaders in History

Sindh has a long history of political struggle, leadership, and movements that have shaped its social, cultural, and economic landscape. From ancient rulers to modern political figures, Sindh has been at the center of several key events in South Asian history.

Sindh has produced remarkable leaders in politics, governance, and social reform. These leaders have played a crucial role in shaping the destiny of Sindh and Pakistan.

Ancient and Medieval Leaders

1. Raja Dahir (663–711 CE) – The Last Hindu Ruler of Sindh

The last king of the Brahmin Dynasty before the Arab conquest.
Fought against Muhammad bin Qasim in 711 CE but was defeated.
Seen by some as a hero who resisted foreign invasions.

2. Muhammad bin Qasim (695–715 CE) – Arab Conqueror of Sindh

Led the Umayyad conquest of Sindh in 711 CE.
Introduced Islamic rule and administrative reforms in Sindh.
Established law and order and promoted trade and education.

3. Mian Ghulam Shah Kalhoro (1736–1772) – The Kalhoro Ruler

Strengthened Sindh’s administration and built Shah Wali Fort in Hyderabad.
Patron of architecture, culture, and religious harmony.

4. Mir Fateh Ali Khan Talpur (1768–1793) – Founder of Talpur Dynasty

Defeated the Kalhoras and established the Talpur rule in Sindh.
Focused on traditional cultural revival and governance.

5. Hosh Muhammad Sheedi (1801–1843) – Freedom Fighter of Sindh

Military commander under the Talpurs.
Fought bravely against British forces in the Battle of Miani (1843).
His famous words, “Marvesoon par Sindh na desoon” (We will die but won’t give Sindh away), are still remembered.

Modern Political Leaders

1. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (1928–1979) – Founder of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP)

Served as Prime Minister of Pakistan (1973–1977).
Nationalized major industries and introduced progressive reforms.
Executed in 1979 after a controversial trial under General Zia-ul-Haq.

2. Benazir Bhutto (1953–2007) – First Female Prime Minister of Pakistan

First woman to lead a Muslim-majority country.
Served as Prime Minister of Pakistan twice (1988–1990 and 1993–1996).
Assassinated in Rawalpindi in 2007, a major loss for Sindh and Pakistan.

3. Sain GM Syed and Other Nationalist Leaders

Leaders like Rasool Bux Palijo and Qadir Magsi led nationalist movements for their rights.
Advocated for Sindhi language, culture, and autonomy.

A. Classical Scholars

1. Abu Mashar Sindhi (9th Century)

A mathematician and astrologer from Sindh.
Wrote astronomical and mathematical works in the Abbasid Caliphate.

2. Al-Beruni (973–1048 CE)

Though not Sindhi by birth, Al-Beruni studied Sindh’s culture, history, and language.
Wrote about Sindh’s scientific knowledge, Hindu traditions, and social structure in his book “Kitab al-Hind”.

3. Makhdoom Muhammad Hashim Thattvi (1692–1761)

A renowned Sindhi Islamic scholar and jurist.
Wrote several books on Islamic law, Sindhi literature, and Persian poetry.

Modern Sindhi Thinkers and Writers

1. Mirza Kalich Beg (1853–1929)

Known as the father of Sindhi literature.
Wrote over 400 books on science, history, and Sindhi language.

2. Allama I. I. Kazi (1888–1968)

One of Sindh’s greatest educationists and philosophers.
First Vice-Chancellor of Sindh University.

3. G. M. Syed (1904–1995)

A political thinker and founder of nationalism.
Wrote books on Sindhi tractions, politics, and history.

4. Sheikh Ayaz (1923–1997)

Legendary poet and writer.
Wrote poetry promoting Sindhi identity, Sufism, and social justice.

5. Dr. Nabi Bux Khan Baloch (1917–2011)

A linguist, historian, and educationist.
Collected and preserved folklore and historical records.

6. Muhammad Ibrahim Joyo (1915–2017)

A philosopher, educationist, and social reformer.
Wrote books promoting language, culture, and progressive ideas.

7. Amar Jaleel (Born 1936)

A famous novelist, playwright, and journalist.
Known for his bold writings on social and political issues.

8. Dr. Fahmida Hussain (Born 1948)

A leading Sindhi linguist, writer, and scholar.
Has written extensively on Sindhi literature and history.

Sindh has always been a center of knowledge, education, and intellectual thought. From ancient scholars and mathematicians to modern writers and educationists, Sindhis have played a major role in South Asian history. The universities and schools in Sindh continue to educate future generations, keeping Sindh’s rich academic tradition alive.

Despite challenges, the Sindhi identity remains strong. However, the future depends on how well Sindh adapts to modernization while preserving its unique culture.

The preservation of Indus culture and identity is crucial as Sindh moves towards modernization. While socioeconomic challenges exist, education, digital awareness, and cultural promotion can ensure that Sindhi traditions, language, and heritage continue to thrive for generations to come.

Conclusion

Sindh people, descendants of the Indus Valley Civilization, are known for their rich culture, hospitality, and resilience. Their contributions span literature, Sufi music, business, and politics. Sindhi diaspora thrives globally, excelling in trade and entrepreneurship. Despite modernization challenges, efforts continue to preserve Sindhi language, traditions, and identity. With strong roots and adaptability, Sindhis remain a vibrant part of Pakistan and the global community.