Farsiwan

Farsiwan, also known as Dehwari or Torki, is a term used to refer to a community of Persian-speaking people in Afghanistan. They are primarily concentrated in the western and northern regions of the country, with significant populations in cities like Herat and Mazar-i-Sharif. While they speak Persian, their dialect can differ from the standard Dari spoken in Kabul and other parts of Afghanistan. The term "Farsiwan" itself is a compound of "Farsi," the Persian language, and "wan," a suffix that can denote belonging or origin.

The Farsiwan community has a long history in Afghanistan and has contributed to its cultural and economic landscape. Their origins are often linked to historical migrations and settlement patterns within the Persian-speaking world. They are distinct from the Tajiks, another Persian-speaking ethnic group in Afghanistan, though the lines can sometimes be blurred and the terms used interchangeably in certain contexts. The Farsiwan identity is primarily defined by their language and cultural practices, which share many similarities with broader Persian traditions.

Economically, Farsiwan communities are involved in various sectors, including agriculture, trade, and crafts. Their cultural heritage is rich, with a strong tradition of poetry, music, and storytelling. Understanding the Farsiwan is important for comprehending the diverse ethnic and linguistic makeup of Afghanistan.