#pashtun

The Pashtun are a nomadic people indigenous to the southeast of Afghanistan. Pashto and Dari are the two primary languages spoken by the Pashtun people, which is comprised of an estimated 400 different tribes and clans. While Afghanistan is the Pashtun’s homeland, a large portion of the native population has been displaced due to prolonged conflict perpetrated by America’s foreign interests in the region.

Pashtun culture is celebrated for its traditional music, dancing, poetry, storytelling, and colorful cultural clothing (which is represented in this painting). The clothing is interwoven with shards of reflective material creating a distinct and striking visual display of light and color.

Blue geometric tattoos, called Sheen Khaal, were once a widespread beauty practice done primarily by Pashtun women (other genders were known to wear Sheen Khaal but on a much smaller scale). While the practice is not as common today, Pashtun women still adorn their chins, cheeks, mid brow and forehead with henna in designs reminiscent of traditional Sheen Khaal. The Mirialan Species of Star wars were heavily inspired by Pashtun Culture.

This artwork is dedicated to my lovely fiancé who is a member of the Pashtun people and who has helped me learn so much about Afghan culture and tradition much to my benefit. I highly encourage everyone (especially Americans) to research the traditional people groups of Afghanistan, it is a beautiful country full of rich culture, delicious food and gorgeous traditions that have been severely impacted by war and suffering. It is very difficult to find information on the culture of the Pashtuns and other people groups due to the conflict clouding out easily found sources. This is something that actively and materially harms Afghan people today and is a requested and helpful step in the direction of keeping the culture alive and easily accessible.

(photo reference credit goes to Roland and Sabrina Michaud)

Pashtun dancers and musicians in Pakistan