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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Indian Punjab and Pakistan Punjab?

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The main differences between Indian Punjab and Pakistan Punjab are primarily related to their religious demographics, size, and administrative divisions:

  1. Religious Demographics: Indian Punjab has a majority of Punjabi Sikhs, while Pakistan Punjab has a majority of Punjabi Muslims. Both regions also have other religious groups, including Hinduism, Christianity, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, and Ravidassia.
  2. Size: Pakistan Punjab is larger than Indian Punjab, covering an area of 458,354.5 km², while Indian Punjab is divided into the states of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, and Delhi.
  3. Language: Both regions speak the Punjabi language, but Pakistani Punjabi has its differences from Indian Punjabi. The writing systems are also different, with Indian Punjabi using the Gurmukhi script and Pakistani Punjabi using the Shahmukhi script.
  4. Administrative Divisions: Indian Punjab is divided into several states and union territories, including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, and Delhi. In contrast, Pakistan Punjab is a single province within Pakistan.

Despite these differences, both regions share a common history, culture, and linguistic heritage. The Punjab region has been subject to invasions from different peoples throughout its long and rich history, resulting in a diverse population.

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  • What is the Difference Between Indian Punjab and Pakistan Punjab?
  • Comparative Table: Indian Punjab vs Pakistan Punjab

    • Comparative Table: Indian Punjab vs Pakistan Punjab

    Feature Indian Punjab Pakistan Punjab
    Religion Majority Sikh, with significant Hindu and Muslim populations Majority Muslim, with a significant Christian population
    Language Punjabi, with Gurmukhi script as the official script Punjabi, with Shahmukhi script as the official script
    Demographics Punjabi is the third-largest ethnic group in India, accounting for about 2.3% of the population Punjabis are the largest ethnic group in Pakistan, accounting for 45% of the population
    Culture Sikhism, Hinduism, and Islam are the major religions, with distinct practices and customs Islam is the predominant religion, with more conservative practices and customs
    Cuisine Indian Punjabi cuisine is known for its vegetarian dishes, with dairy products playing a significant role Pakistani Punjabi cuisine is known for its non-vegetarian dishes, with a strong influence from Central Asian and Mughal culinary traditions

    The differences between Indian Punjab and Pakistan Punjab can be attributed to the religious, cultural, and culinary distinctions that have evolved since the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. While there is a shared history and linguistic heritage, the two regions have developed distinct identities and practices over time.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.