Pakistani

Pakistani is the demonym for people who are citizens of Pakistan or who have a close association with the country. It also serves as the adjectival form for things related to Pakistan. Pakistan is a country in South Asia, bordered by India, Afghanistan, Iran, China, and the Arabian Sea. The population is diverse, with major ethnic groups including Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtun, Baloch, and various others. The term Pakistani thus encompasses a wide range of identities, languages, and cultures.

The official language is Urdu, while English is widely used in government, business, and education. Regional languages such as Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, and Balochi are also prevalent. The majority religion is Islam, but the country is home to religious minorities including Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and others.

Pakistan gained independence from British India in 1947, created as a homeland for Muslims in the region. Its capital is Islamabad, and Karachi is the largest city. The Islamic Republic of Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic with four provinces and two autonomous territories. Pakistani culture is noted for its music, literature, cuisine, traditional dress such as the shalwar kameez, and a strong cricketing tradition. The term Pakistani thus describes a broad national identity that intersects with regional and ethnic identities within Pakistan and among its diaspora.