Baluchi

Baluchi refers to an ethnic group native to the region of Baluchistan and to the Baluchi language spoken by that people. Baluchi communities are found mainly in southeastern Iran (Sistan and Baluchestan and portions of Hormozgan), southwestern Afghanistan (Nimruz Province), and southern Pakistan (Balochistan province and parts of Sindh), with smaller populations in Oman, the Gulf states, and in diasporic communities around the world.

The Baluchi language, also called Balochi, is an Iranian language in the Northwestern branch of the Indo-Iranian language family. It has several dialects, including Northern, Southern, Eastern, and Western Balochi. The language is written in different scripts: in Iran and Pakistan it uses a Perso-Arabic script, with local orthographic conventions, while Latin script is also used in some modern contexts and media.

Society and history: The Baluchi have long inhabited the arid and coastal regions of the broader Baluchistan area. Traditionally they organize themselves around tribal and confederate structures, with prominent clans such as the Bugti, Marri, and Mengal. The region has seen influence from various empires and khanates and has historically served as a crossroad for trade and migration. In contemporary times Baluchi communities pursue recognition and rights within the states of Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan.

Culture and religion: Most Baluchi are Muslim, predominantly Sunni, with diverse local practices and devotional traditions, including Sufi influences in some communities. Balochi culture features distinctive poetry, oral storytelling, music, and crafts. Traditional attire and music vary across the region but commonly reflect the desert and coastal environments of Baluchistan.