Editorial: The Baloch Culture Day

The Baloch Culture Day was celebrated with an unprecedented zeal and enthusiasm across the country on March 2. It was the first time that this significant day was observed by Balochs belonging to different political parties and regions with the same spirit. People living in Karachi as well as in Balochistan took this day as an opportunity to assert their cultural identity and vow to do whatever it takes to preserve the distinctive Balochi language, art, attire and music.

It surely took a lot of courage on the part of all Balochs to get out of their homes, sing and dance at a time when the government’s repressive policies are intended to hit themwith the wall. The spirit of the young Balochs was significant given the fact that these people are currently under a war-like situation imposed on them by the security forces. They kept aside all tensions, pressures and intimidation to remind the whole world that Balochs were a nation under every definition of the word.

Though everyone actively participated in making this day a grand success, the credit largely goes to the first Balochi language satellite news channel Vsh News for mobilizing support and fueling passion among the masses on this special day. There were celebrations in Sindh as well as in Balochistan to mark this day. In Karachi, for instance, thousands of Balochs attended a grand rally which was headed by the chairman of People’s Peace Committee, Sardar Uzair Baloch. Riding on motorbikes, cars and trucks, the participants of the Baloch Culture Day wore traditional Balochi clothes and played folk music.

Similar events were organized by Balochistan National Party (Awami and Mengal factions), National Party, University of Balochistan and different educational institutions. At some programs, speakers urged the need for unity among all segments of the Baloch society and promotion of their culture. It was reassuring to see people from all backgrounds actively participate in the celebrations on this day.

After a long time, different political parties were seen forgetting their political differences and celebrating a day of mutual interest. This day should be observed in the future wit the same level of enthusiasm so that people are educated and informed about their culture, language and music. In addition, marking such days comes as a source of great encouragement for our artists who have richly contributed to promotion of the Balochi culture.


http://www.thebalochhal.com/2011/03/editorial-the-baloch-culture-day/