2025

art

Zarmina Gulalai Zarak Khan

Da Warro ao Da Zarro Qissaiy (Pukhtun Stories for the Young and Old)


In Pukhtun culture, storytelling is a deeply valued tradition that has been passed down through generations. Shared orally, often by elders within families, the stories play a vital role in shaping the ethical and social understanding of younger generations while preserving cultural heritage. Each time a story is retold, it may take on subtle changes based on region or family, but the essence remains intact, ensuring that the core lessons and traditions endure. This oral tradition is central to maintaining a collective identity, offering continuity between past and present. Unlike written records, these stories live through memory and speech, highlighting the unique way the Pukhtun people have preserved their history. However, while the language is widely spoken, it is not often written or read, which presents a growing challenge in today’s digital and media-driven world. As younger generations move further from oral traditions, there is a risk of losing this cultural wealth. In response, my thesis aims to preserve these stories by presenting them in written and illustrated form. The result is a series of 3 books that not only captures the spirit of Pukhtun storytelling along with preserving the stories we are at risk of losing, it also encourages readers, especially the youth to engage with their linguistic and cultural roots. By seeing these stories brought to life through words and art, I hope to inspire a renewed appreciation for the language and a desire to keep these stories alive for generations to come.