Dynamics and Dimensions of Cultural Heritage of Pakistan in Punjab

Abstract

This study is about cultural heritage of Pakistan and covers the nature of diversity in Pakistan’s cultural heritage that spans from languages, food, dresses, architecture, folklore, to religions. Pakistan is a multiethnic society with a rich cultural history. Ethnic diversity of the country is a major challenge to seek national identity and nation building in general. Cultural heritage is an ideological space that provides basis for national unity and shared identity. Cultural history of Pakistan can be traced back to stone-tool making era; however, famous vernacular expressions often refer this cultural history to Indus valley civilization and Gandhara civilization. This dissertation addresses the dynamics of cultural heritage of Punjab instead of Pakistan was based on two basic tenants, one was the capacity of the researcher to attend the already a multi sited locale within Punjab instead of covering whole Pakistan and two was the post-18th amendment in the constitution of Pakistan; that gave autonomy to the provinces consequently provinces were responsible to draft their own cultural heritage laws and policies apart from managing the existing staff whose payroll was shifted from federal to provincial government. Therefore, Pakistan needs to invest in the cultural heritage for its promotion, preservation and protection. This dissertation addresses the dynamics of cultural heritage that regulates the sociocultural life of Pakistan, in addition to addressing the dimensions of cultural heritage regarding policies and practices within the geographical boundaries of Punjab province. This dissertation provides the overview of role of cultural heritage in diversity management. Data was collected by reviewing of legal arrangements and documents, at different levels, that helps develop a perspective about policy dimension of cultural heritage management. Role of institutions in protection, preservation and promotion of cultural heritage is highlighted with the help of representation of opinions and suggestions generated by officials and academia during the primary data collection. A debate about culture and role of cultural heritage in nation building and its linkages to the tourism based economic interventions is generated to highlight the significance of cultural heritage as means to meet ideological as well as economic ends. Issues of governance of cultural heritage are discussed to guide the plausible resolution to attain xv sustainability and development using cultural heritage as means to it. Legislative aspects of the cultural heritage are discussed in the light of potential role of cultural heritage to provide base for socio-religious cultural dimensions in national interest.