By: Vibhuti Pathak
In a recent interview, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Chief Minister of Pakistan’s Punjab province, highlighted the importance of Punjab’s cultural identity and advocated for stronger ties with India. Speaking at Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib before 3000 Sikh pilgrims, Sharif emphasised her Punjabi identity, stating, to Indian media: “You are from Punjab [India], I am from Pakistan, but I am also a true Punjabi,” Maryam said. She also quoted her father, former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif: “Don’t fight wars with neighbours, open the doors of friendship, open the doors of your hearts.”
Punjab, historically known for its agricultural richness and cultural heritage, has deep-rooted ties that transcend political boundaries. The name ‘Punjab’ itself signifies the presence of five rivers, reflecting the region’s geographical abundance.
Sharif stressed the concept of ‘Punjabiyat,’ or Punjabiness, underscoring the shared cultural values and traditions that unite Punjabis across borders. Despite the partition in 1947 and subsequent political tensions, many individuals on both sides continue to cherish their common heritage and identity.
Efforts have been made to promote unity and reconciliation among families separated during Partition, with Punjabi diaspora communities playing a crucial role in fostering connections and understanding. Cultural exchanges, such as collaborative projects in the film industry, serve as platforms for showcasing Punjab’s rich cultural legacy and promoting cross-border friendships.
Several attempts have been made to unite members of families that were torn asunder during Partition. Punjabi diaspora communities have acted as a unifying force. Indian and Pakistani actors came together in the Punjabi film Aaja Mexico Challiye (2022), which was about the dangerous donkey route taken by Punjabis from both countries trying to migrate to the West.
There are deep cultural connections in music too, from the poetry of Bulle Shah to the Punjabi rap of Sidhu Moosewala, who was as popular in Pakistan as in India.
The Punjabi language faces a unique challenge with two distinct scripts: Gurmukhi, with 35 letters, used in Indian Punjab, and Shahmukhi, a Persian script, prevalent in Pakistani Punjab. This division along religious lines has significantly impacted Punjabi’s status.
Despite challenges, including linguistic differences and political tensions, Punjab’s cultural resilience remains a driving force for promoting peace and cooperation between India and Pakistan. Sharif’s advocacy for stronger bilateral ties reflects a growing sentiment among many Punjabis for overcoming past grievances and building a more harmonious future.
Political Ties and Economic Potential:
Pakistan’s announcement of the opening of the Kartarpur corridor in 2019 was welcomed by Punjab, signalling a positive step towards enhancing people-to-people exchanges between the two countries. Additionally, historical visits by political leaders, such as Punjab Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal and Capt Amarinder Singh, have contributed to strengthening ties and fostering dialogue.
Efforts to promote trade and economic cooperation, such as the Attari-Wagah land route and the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, have demonstrated the potential for mutual benefit. Despite temporary disruptions, many stakeholders believe in the importance of maintaining trade between the two Punjabs and between India and Pakistan.
As Punjabi immigrants settle in countries like the UK, they continue to uphold their cultural heritage and forge friendships with individuals from both India and Pakistan. Shared experiences and common challenges create opportunities for fostering mutual respect and understanding, transcending political boundaries, and promoting a sense of unity among Punjabis worldwide.
