CULTURE OF PUNJAB

PUNJAB 

The term "Punjab" originates form Persian language "Panj" means five and "ab" means water . During Rigvedic era , the area was called Sapta Sindh or Seven Rivers  and represents an undivided range of Punjab . The Indus river and other five rivers ii south eventually flow into the Indus River or later into the Punjab valley . All rivers start in the Himalayas and flow from the Himalayas . the other five rivers are the Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, baes and Sutlej rivers.

FOOD

It is rich in flavors and spices. With overflowing ghee,  the food here is considered for the strong-hearted! buttermilk is one of  the refreshing drink here . 

Make di Roti (maize bread) and Sarson da Sag (mustard leaf curry) is another traditional dish of Punjab. Many kind of  other foods like Chole Bhathure, Rajma Chawal and Paneer Naan are enjoyed by the people , but among them tandoor chicken is also in the list of favorites. 

DRESSES

The traditional dresses are  colorful, unique and vibrant. Women wear Salwar kameez (Salwar is the bottom wear and kameez upper). These clothes are designed and beautifully embroidered at homes in multi colors. Men wear a Turban which also reflect a person with great pride. Footwear preferred is Joti which has been the traditional footwear worn by men and women for many years. Many hand made crafts are also performed by the women's and even the men's in the village.

FOLK DANCES 

Folk music and dances which are hugely popular in every state as it reflect the culture of that respective state. In Punjab , Bhangra is a popular dance performed by both men and women. Usually it is performed on special happy occasion and even on the time of harvest season.  Dances performed by women are Giddha and Sammi, Luddhi and Dhamal and are also popular dances in the region. Even Punjabi music has become a part in  Bollywood industry . 

LANGUAGES 

The official language of Punjab is Punjabi , not only Punjabi is being used as a communication in Punjab only but this Punjabi language is also used by people living in different state and belong to Punjab culture. The language is one only but there are dialects which vary from region to region. 

RELIGION

There are many religions in Punjab . However the main population of Punjab , India, is made up of Hindus and Sikhs. Due to  the state's Sikh origins , the Sikh population is particularly large . Punjab is home to many Sikh  religious centers, not to mention Amritsar's  most famous golden temple, which is visited by many visitors from all over the world .