Punjab, a region known for its vibrant traditions, rich history, and hearty spirit, is undergoing rapid changes in the modern age. As global influences permeate local life, many traditional cultural practices are slowly fading into obscurity. Here, we’ll explore the top 5 cultural practices from Punjab that are on the verge of extinction.
1. Folk Music Traditions of Punjab: The Dhol, Tumbi, and Chimta
Punjab has long been the cradle of folk music, with instruments like the dhol, tumbi, and chimta playing a significant role in traditional celebrations. These instruments were once central to festivals, weddings, and other cultural events. However, as popular music styles like Bollywood, pop, and electronic music have taken over, the classic sound of these traditional instruments is being drowned out.
The dhol, a large barrel-shaped drum, is the heart of Bhangra music, while the tumbi and chimta give a distinctive rhythm to Punjabi folk songs. Despite their cultural importance, these instruments are becoming less common, with younger generations opting for more contemporary musical genres and technology-based performances.
Why It’s Disappearing:
The rise of digital music and the shift towards global pop culture has marginalized traditional Punjabi folk music. Younger generations prefer modern music, leading to a decline in the number of folk musicians.
2. Traditional Punjabi Clothing: The Phulkari and Punjabi Jutti
Phulkari, the colorful hand-embroidered shawl, and the Punjabi jutti, a traditional footwear, are key elements of traditional Punjab attire. The vibrant embroidery on the phulkari is a symbol of Punjabi craftsmanship, with each piece telling a story through its intricate patterns.
Unfortunately, these garments are becoming rare as Western-style clothing dominates the fashion scene. The Punjabi jutti, once worn by men and women alike for various occasions, is now mostly seen in folk performances or special cultural events, but rarely as everyday wear.
Why It’s Disappearing:
The global fashion industry, fast fashion, and urbanization have significantly reduced the demand for handwoven, handcrafted traditional attire. Younger generations often find it difficult to incorporate these traditional garments into their modern lifestyles.
3. Traditional Village Farming Practices: The Bullock Cart and Organic Farming
Traditional farming methods, which relied on bullock carts for transportation and plowing fields, are rapidly being replaced by modern machinery. This shift has led to the near extinction of organic farming practices that were once widespread in Punjab.
Historically, bullock carts were essential for transporting goods from one place to another, while organic farming ensured a sustainable and balanced ecosystem. Today, mechanized farming has made these practices obsolete, diminishing the rural economy’s dependence on nature’s cycles.
Why It’s Disappearing:
Mechanization, industrialization, and the adoption of chemical fertilizers and pesticides have led to the decline of organic farming. The younger generation has shifted away from traditional agricultural practices due to better access to machinery and the allure of city life.
4. Gidda and Bhangra: Traditional Dance Forms Losing Their Identity
Gidda (the traditional women’s dance) and Bhangra (the energetic dance style performed primarily by men) are two dance forms that have long been symbolic of Punjabi culture. These dances were not only forms of entertainment but also integral to cultural celebrations and festivals like Lohri, Vaisakhi, and weddings.
While Bhangra still enjoys some popularity on the global stage, especially in international communities, Gidda has seen a significant decline in participation. Both dance forms are increasingly being commercialized and performed with modern influences, losing their traditional roots.
Why It’s Disappearing:
The influence of social media, reality TV shows, and global dance trends has led younger people to adopt fusion dances rather than preserving the classic Gidda and Bhangra forms. Urbanization and the fast-paced modern lifestyle have also played a role in the diminishing popularity of these folk dances.
5. The Art of Punjabi Calligraphy: Gurmukhi Writing
The Gurmukhi script, integral to the Punjabi language and Sikh religion, is rapidly losing its place in everyday life. This form of calligraphy, once considered a revered art, was commonly used in educational settings, religious texts, and cultural manuscripts. Today, it is becoming a niche interest rather than a widespread cultural practice.
The decline in the use of Gurmukhi calligraphy can be attributed to the dominance of digital communication, where handwritten scripts are largely replaced by typing in standardized fonts. This shift is contributing to the erosion of the art form.
Why It’s Disappearing:
Digital technology, smartphones, and the use of Roman script for texting and social media have made it less necessary to master traditional calligraphy. Schools and universities also place more emphasis on modern skills rather than preserving traditional writing arts.
The fading of these cultural practices reflects the larger forces of modernization and globalization. However, there is still hope. Various organizations and individuals are working to revive and preserve these traditions, often through workshops, cultural festivals, and online platforms. While many of these practices may never regain their former prominence, efforts to maintain them in some form are crucial for ensuring that Punjab’s rich cultural heritage is not completely lost.
If the younger generation can reconnect with their roots and understand the significance of these cultural elements, they may play an instrumental role in preserving these practices for future generations. It’s up to all of us to ensure that Punjab’s cultural identity remains alive and vibrant, even in the face of rapid change.