Top 10 Castes in Pakistan (By Population)

Caste system plays a crucial role in shaping societal norms, marriage patterns, and cultural practices. It’s not just about social divisions; castes are repositories of historical narratives and cultural traditions that have evolved over time.

To compile accurate data, a combination of census records, surveys, and scholarly research was utilized. The information presented here is a reflection of the population distribution as of the latest available data.

Top 10 Castes in Pakistan by Population

1. Punjabis

Punjabis are the largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 44% of the country’s population. They are concentrated in the Punjab province, but can also be found in other parts of Pakistan, including Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan. Punjabis are a diverse group, with a variety of languages and cultures. They are predominantly Sunni Muslims, but there is also a significant Sikh minority.

2. Sindhis

Sindhis are the second largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 14% of the country’s population. They are concentrated in the Sindh province, but can also be found in other parts of Pakistan, including Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan. Sindhis are a diverse group, with a variety of languages and cultures. They are predominantly Muslim, but there is also a significant Hindu minority.

3. Pashtuns

Pashtuns are the third largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 13% of the country’s population. They are concentrated in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, but can also be found in other parts of Pakistan, including Balochistan, Punjab, and Sindh. Pashtuns are a proud and independent people, with a strong warrior tradition. They are predominantly Sunni Muslims.

4. Muhajirs

Muhajirs are the fourth largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 7% of the country’s population. They are descendants of Muslims who migrated from India to Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947. Muhajirs are concentrated in the urban centers of Pakistan, particularly Karachi. They are predominantly Urdu-speaking and Sunni Muslim.

5. Balochs

Balochs are the fifth largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 4% of the country’s population. They are concentrated in the Balochistan province, but can also be found in other parts of Pakistan, including Punjab and Sindh. Balochs are a proud and independent people, with a strong warrior tradition. They are predominantly Sunni Muslims.

6. Saraikis

Saraikis are the sixth largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 3% of the country’s population. They are concentrated in the southern Punjab province, but can also be found in other parts of Pakistan, including Sindh and Balochistan. Saraikis are a diverse group, with a variety of languages and cultures. They are predominantly Muslim, but there is also a significant Hindu minority.

7. Gujjars

Gujjars are the seventh largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 2% of the country’s population. They are concentrated in the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, but can also be found in other parts of Pakistan. Gujjars are a pastoral people, who traditionally herded sheep and goats. They are predominantly Muslim.

8. Jats

Jats are the eighth largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 1% of the country’s population. They are concentrated in the Punjab province, but can also be found in other parts of Pakistan. Jats are a farming people, who traditionally grew wheat and rice. They are predominantly Muslim.

9. Rajputs

Rajputs are the ninth largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 1% of the country’s population. They are concentrated in the Punjab and Sindh provinces, but can also be found in other parts of Pakistan. Rajputs are a warrior caste, who traditionally served as soldiers and rulers. They are predominantly Muslim.

10. Arain

Arains are the tenth largest ethnic group in Pakistan, making up about 1% of the country’s population. They are concentrated in the Punjab province, but can also be found in other parts of Pakistan. Arains are a farming people, who traditionally grew wheat and rice. They are predominantly Muslim.

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The top 10 castes in Pakistan, each with its unique history and characteristics, contribute to the nation’s vibrant social fabric. As Pakistan continues to evolve, these castes play an integral role in shaping the country’s identity and cultural landscape.

FAQs

Q: Are castes in Pakistan based solely on ethnicity?

A: No, castes in Pakistan are influenced by historical, regional, and cultural factors.

Q: How do castes affect modern Pakistani society?

A: Castes continue to influence marriage choices, social networks, and even political dynamics.

Q: Are caste-based divisions becoming less relevant?

A: While urbanization and globalization have impacted traditional divisions, castes still hold cultural significance.

Q: Can one belong to multiple castes?

A: In some cases, individuals might identify with multiple castes due to intermarriages or regional influences.

Q: How does the government address caste-related issues?

A: The government has implemented affirmative action policies to promote social equity and reduce disparities among castes.