The rising popularity of Pakistani culture among Bangladeshi youth

In recent years, we have noticed that the young Bangladeshi generation has a significant fascination with Pakistani culture. This fascination can be seen in many aspects of their lives, from fashion to music, poetry, and social media trends.

The influence of Pakistani drama might have played a crucial role in shaping this cultural connection across borders. This trend might seem surprising because of the historical tension between the two countries. Still, it is happening because of the appeal of cultural storytelling, shared attitudes and the easy accessibility of the internet.

What factors contribute to the changing attitudes towards Pakistani culture among Bangladeshi youth despite historical tensions? How do Bangladeshi youth perceive the differences between Pakistani and Indian dramas? Are there any notable collaborations between Bangladeshi and Pakistani artists in music or fashion?

Pakistani dramas  

Pakistani daily soaps might have been spreading, which fuelled this cultural connection. After the drama Humsafar, starring Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan, became immensely popular, many people in Bangladesh started watching their works.

Following that, dramas like Zindagi gulzar hain, Yakeen ka safar, Ehd-e-wafa and more recently, Tere bin, Ishq murshid, Kabhi main kabhi tum have captivated and left them engrossed in the world of Pakistani drama. Afrin Mitu, a 20-year-old college student who loves to watch Pakistani dramas, says, "I love to watch them because of their relatable storytelling and the reflection of real-life struggle. The way they show love, family and societal problems seems so natural. Another best thing about their drama is they wrap up these dramas in 20-30 episodes, unlike the unnecessary dragging of the never-ending saas-bahu (Daughter-in-law and mother-in-law) saga of Indian drama."

Fashion

Pakistani outfits have become a significant fashion fascination for Bangladeshi youth, especially for women. There are intricately designed salwar kameez and Kurtis with a blend of tradition and modernity.

Some well-known Pakistani brands popular in Bangladesh for their intricately designed outfits, including bridal wear, are Sana Safinaz, Agha Noor, Maria B., Asim Jofa, and Gul Ahmed.

These branded outfits have become the preferred choice among Bangladeshi young women for special occasions like Eid and weddings. Sadia Aurpa, a journalism student at the University of Dhaka, says, "Pakistani fashion is everything I look for. It is stylish, comfortable, and traditional. I follow many Pakistani influencers on Instagram for fashion tips. I even ordered a salwar kameez online for Eid. These designs are exquisite and different and give a very modest look. I also dream of wearing a Pakistani bridal outfit at my wedding."

Music and Poetry

Pakistani music has also gained significant popularity among Bangladeshi youth. Platforms like Coke Studio Pakistan have introduced audiences to a diverse range of music.

Pakistani music has influenced today's generation the most because of its diversity of soulful music, from modern pop to rock. Artists like the late Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Atif Aslam, Mustafa Zahid, Ali Sethi, and many more have enriched the Pakistani music industry so much that it has influenced the whole of South Asia, not just Bangladeshi youth.

Hasibul Hasan Shanto, a 25-year-old medical student, enthusiastically discussed Pakistani music: "Pakistani music has influenced me a lot, especially those songs of Coke Studio. I don't think anyone hasn't swayed to the music of Afreen Afreen or Pasoori. The lyrics and composition are so rich that the emotions hit you deeply. Even though the language is different, it feels like the music speaks to me."

Urdu poetry has also taken a special place in the heart of this young generation of Bangladesh because of the Instagram reels. Poets like Jaun Elia and Faiz Ahmed Faiz added another layer of depth to this fascination towards Pakistani culture.

Social media accessibility

Social media platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have also made Pakistani culture more accessible than ever.

Pakistani dramas, music, and fashion trends are just a few clicks away. Fan pages and influencers actively share content introducing Bangladeshi youth to Pakistani celebrities, lifestyles, and traditions. Multiple fan pages and groups are run in Bangladesh to celebrate the Pak-drama.  

Shae Gill even shared a photo art of her song Pasoori, which was done by a Bangladeshi artist, Neza Mahmud, who was at that time a student of Law at Bangladesh University of Professionals.

This rising popularity of Pakistani culture among Bangladeshi youth reflects how art and media can bring people closer across borders. Whether through dramas, fashion, music, or social media trends, Pakistani culture offers a mix of tradition and modernity that fascinates the young generation. 

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