Pashtun culture

[2][3][4] Being the world's largest tribal ethnicity, Pashtun society is guarded by a code of common rules, customs and social behaviors, known collectively as Pashtunwali.

They are worn in everyday life by male elders, adults and tribal leaders as sign of status and respect.

It comes in a variety of earthly colors and is used to keep the head warm, although this isn't a traditional headwear and was adopted in the 19th century, it is worn by many of them today in everyday life.

The burka is an essential part of Pashtun culture as it conveys honor and respect to others, in society, however it is not worn by children, young girls or elderly women.

[11][12] Many women insist upon wearing it to preserve their self respect and honor[13][14] Contrary to the false beliefs and propaganda suggesting it was introduced by Taliban,[15] the earliest recorded mention of Pashtun women wearing the burka was in the early 18th century,[16] by a British soldier of the British Empire, James Rattray records that:When out of doors, or taking Horse exercise, these ladies don an immense white sheet, reaching from the top of the skull cap, to the feet, a long square veil, attached by a clasp of gold, or jewel to the back of the head, conceals the face, across where there is an opening of network to admit light and air.

In addition to the winding sheets, they wear long loose white boots of calico, fastened by a silken garter above the knees and turned back like a falling collar, in order to display the lining.

The soles of these baglike leggings are of shawl and the garters, in their glittering tissues bear emblazed holy memorials, acts of zeal, and love recorded eminents from - from the Quran, the loose boots and veils are also embraided in white and coloured silk.

Henna is also done of the fingers, feet and hands to beautify themselves[18] Amongst the Ghilji tribes of Pashtuns, an ancient tradition exists, the Sheen Khaal, which is regarded as a sign of beauty for women.

The Jirgas or tribal councils pass laws, resolves conflicts, deal with the government, murder cases, rewards fines and death sentences, declare war and peace, and banish people from the tribe.

Foreign powers, such as the British Empire, attended Jirgas during the 18th and 19th century,[26] in order to maintain relationships with the tribes and settle any conflicts.

Male members of the community who linger and associate like a larger family commonly visit the hujra which serves as more than just a place to hold collective ceremonies.

[34] It is not uncommon for Pashtuns to start firing guns shots joyously into the air during on hearing a special event or celebration.