A blue-colored dress or shawl is known as Saraiki or Multani Ajrak, are the symbol of the tradition, history, and civilization of Saraiki Wasweeb. There are two types of Ajraks, one is Sindhi Ajrak which is reddish, and the other is Punjabi, blueish.
Today our topic is Punjabi Ajrak, and we will try to discuss its facts and history.
Saraiki Ajrak or Multani Ajrak
The history of Saraiki Ajrak, known as the identity of South Punjab, in tourist attraction beautiful Pakistan, is both ancient and interesting. According to Professor Shaukat Mughal, a linguist, and Saraiki researcher, when the Arab army led by Muhammad bin Qasim invaded Multan, the locals were wearing blue shawls (Lokarain).
Name and color of Saraiki Ajrak
When the Arab army saw the natives wearing blue shawls, they immediately said Azraq, Azraq, meaning blue. Over time, the word Azraq has changed to Ajrak. The color blue and mysticism/Sufism are inseparable, as reflected in mosques and shrine buildings.
Even the blue Ajrak has become a part of the culture of the region and every guest who comes to the city of tombs and shrines Multan is given a gift of Ajrak to express their sincerity and love. Blue is a symbol of peace and tranquility and is also called cool color.
Revival of Dying Tradition
Earlier, this cultural tradition was lost in the fog of time. But over the past few years, local organizations have revived this breaking or dying tradition by celebrating Ajrak Day in various cities across the country.
Ajrak Day Festival
In order to highlight the importance and identity of Saraiki Ajrak, Ajrak Day is usually celebrated in the month of March, on the 6th. Numerous ceremonies are held in this regard in which youngsters dance to the beat of drums and perform bhangra.
Gifts of blue Ajrak are used to distribute among the guests. And Saraiki Ajrak chant slogans of long live and long live Saraiki culture.
Saraiki Ajrak A Symbol of Culture
Saraiki Ajrak has made its popularity, wherever culture is displayed, there is Saraiki Ajrak. In this way, Saraiki Ajrak has proved to be the best way to connect people in Pakistan. Saraiki Ajrak Day is a message not only for Pakistan but also for people all over the world to stick firmly to their culture.
Role of Ajrak Day to Promote Saraiki Culture and Tradition
The nations living in Pakistan are like a flower, and the cultural and traditional civilization makes these nations a bouquet. As the modern and cultural identity of Saraiki Ajrak was disappearing with the passage of time, the people living here woke up, the credit for the awakening surely goes to the personalities who are promoting the culture.
In this regard, the efforts of the founder of the Ajrak Festival, Zahoor Dhareja, are commendable.
Importance of Culture and Tradition to any Nation
The fact that people's identities keep their mother tongue alive is not just a matter of the subcontinent, but also of the most backward tribal peoples in African countries, keeping their culture alive. That is why their recognition in the international community is commendable.
Culture and Tradition of Saraiki Waseeb (سرائیکی وسیب)
All cultures have their own colors and their own fragrance, this color, and the fragrance is the guarantee of Pakistan's stability. Saraiki Waseeb (سرائیکی وسیب) is part of love, peace, and tolerance.
The people here want development and prosperity. Speakers at various events said that Ajrak Day is a day of recognition of our culture, so we are celebrating with great enthusiasm and our young people are enthusiastically celebrating.
People of Saraiki Waseeb (سرائیکی وسیب)
It is a fact that young people are very important in the culture of this Saraiki region. And the friendly, hospitable, and sweet language of the people living in the region is a practical example. Saraiki Waseeb (سرائیکی وسیب) holds a high position in various societies of the world in terms of peace and brotherhood, teaching, and religious traditions.
Saraiki Waseeb and Womens
The land of the saints teaches peace and culture is the source of identity of any region and society. The women living in this region have a high status in terms of abilities and skills. By creating a conducive environment for women, society can move forward.
The culture of this region is the identity and glory of Pakistan.
The message of Ajrak Day
In connection with Ajrak Day, a message of peace is given to the world that Saraiki Ajrak is the ancient identity of the region and its history is covered in its blue color. Blue is closely related to Saraiki Waseeb.
On the one hand, indigo cultivation and export to the rest of the world is only and major Saraiki area of Pakistan, and on the other hand, our Indus River is also called "Neelab".
The blue dress is also called the mystical dress of Saraiki Waseeb. However, the tradition adopted by the people of any region becomes a culture and is considered a part of civilization.
Living nations always cherish their civilization and culture as evidenced by Ajrak Day which is another name for love, tolerance, and peace. The blue-colored Saraiki or Punjabi Ajrak is a metaphor for everlasting love, hospitability, and loyalty to each and every human on earth in the region.