In the eastern part of Tajikistan, high in the mountains, live the representatives of one of the oldest peoples of Central Asia — the Pamiris. They belong to the Pamir-Fergana subrace, the easternmost branch of the Caucasoid race. The Pamiris stand out for their unique culture, traditions, and way of life. Their history spans several millennia and is closely tied to the geographical location of these people.
Ethnic diversity
The Pamiris are classified based on language. There are two main branches: northern and southern Pamiris. Each group includes distinct peoples, some of whom speak similar languages.
Northern Pamiris include:
— Shugnani people — the leading ethnic group, with over 100 000 people, about 25 000 of whom live in Afghanistan
— Rushani people — about 30 000 people
— Yazgulyam people — between 8000 and 10 000 people
— Sarikol people — considered a part of the once unified group of Shugnan-Rushan people, which became distinct. Their population is around 25 000 people.
Southern Pamiris include:
— Ishkashim people — about 1500 people
— Sanglechi people — no more than 150 people
— Wakhi people — a total population of about 70 000 people
— Munjan people — about 4000 people.
Traditional Clothing
The traditional clothing of the Pamiris depends on their ethnic background and geographical location. Typically, they wear garments made of white fabric with various patterns, as well as bright red dresses. The Pamiri people have interesting headgear, such as a tubeteika with patterns at the bottom and a "pechak" — a device for braiding the hair of girls. Today, these accessories and patterned clothing can be worn in everyday life, adding a special touch to the look.
“Shirchay”
“Shirchay” is a traditional salty tea with butter that is especially loved by the Pamiri people. This drink is simple to prepare but has a unique taste. The Pamiris talk about it so much that many believe they sing about “shirchay” day and night.
Architecture
In the Pamir, a house is not just walls, windows, floors, and ceilings; it is a sacred space that unites the family. In the past, various rituals were required to make the house habitable. Following the traditions of their ancestors can also be seen in architectural elements. Pamiri dwellings always have a four-step arch, which not only decorates but also symbolizes the strength of the four elements. Moreover, the house must be supported by five columns, each associated with a specific saint. These columns divide the house into men's and women's sections, separating several rooms from one another.
Wedding ritual "Shay"
Before sending the bride to the groom's house, her face is always covered. This ritual, called "Shay," involves covering the bride's face with several scarves — seven or more. The lowest scarf must be white. The scarf is tied in such a way that it resembles swaddling a baby. Interestingly, a Pamiri woman goes through this ritual three times in her life: when she is born, when she gets married, and when she dies. The ritual must be performed by a woman who has many children and whose parents are still alive.
In the Pamir, it is believed that a covered face protects the bride from the evil eye and malevolent forces. The white scarf symbolizes purity and happiness, which are passed on to the bride.
Music
Pamiri music is a unique blend of Indian, Persian, and Turkic musical traditions. It is popular not only in the Pamir but also in other regions of Tajikistan. Musical instruments such as the dutar, sitar, and doyra give this culture a distinct eastern flavor.
Dances
Pamirian dances differ from other Tajik dance styles in their stable musical structure, based on melodies called "rapo", which consist of two parts: slow and fast. Pamiri dance is characterized by shoulder movements, small steps, turns diagonally and in place, and expressive hand gestures during movements.