Baloch Ethnicity

On the eastern lands of Iran, the people of Baloch live in Baluchestan. Interestingly, the Baloch not only live in Iran, but also in Pakistan and some parts of Afghanistan. There is a great antiquity behind their culture. Some of the Balochis immigrated to eastern India to live near the borders of Pakistan. Accordingly, the Baloch can be considered as the Indo-Iranian race. Baluchestan is a region that even the great Persian Poet, Ferdowsi, had mentioned its name in his great work called ‘’Shahnameh’’. Through this book of poetry, the heroes and heroines are originally the mountain dwellers of Baluchestan.

Culture and customs of the Baloch

Sistan and Baluchestan province, like any other province of Iran, reflects the special culture and custom which shape the identity of the people of this region. This province is known as one of the largest provinces in Iran. Its vicinity to Iran’s eastern neighbors has influenced the customs and traditions of the people of Sistan and Baluchestan province. Accordingly, this is the reason behind the diversity of their culture from of the other ethnicities in Iran. Culture, customs and traditions of the Baloch have a rich history behind it. For this reason, the people of Sistan and Baluchestan province are very committed to the customs of their ancestors and the various Islamic ceremonies, and indigenous events. One of the most interesting customs that can be seen among the people of Sistan and Baluchestan province is that they ride camels in their celebrations and different ceremonies. In this province, the Baloch play local games such as Hellari and Kodi which are simple games. Yet, they can be much enjoyable to take part in. Most local and traditional games are played in groups. It is an opportunity for children and even adults to spend quality time together.

The Religious Ceremonies of the Baloch

One of the most important ceremonies that is highly respected among the people of Sistan and Baluchestan Province is the religious festivals. The Eid al-Adha ceremony has a great importance for the Baloch. During this holiday, the Baloch have the custom of buying new clothes to wear them for this special occasion. There is a place called Eidgah in every area where people gather and sacrifice camels on Eid al-Adha. The good thing about this ceremony is that the meat is distributed among the poor people. Interestingly, during Eid al-Adha in Sistan and Baluchestan province the atmosphere of Eid and festivity is dominated for up to three days.

The people of Sistan and Baluchestan Province also have a lot of respect for the national and local holidays. For example, the celebrations of Nowruz in this province is very exciting. Everyone tries to let go of their past grudges and turn the celebration of Nowruz into a celebration of reconciliation and peace.

Aside from the celebration of Nowruz, one of the most interesting ceremonies that is very important to the people of Sistan and Baluchestan province is holding Yalda night ceremony (Cheleh night). The ceremony is held every year on the last day of autumn.

Characteristics of the Baloch

The Baloch are known as the free, Hospitable, honest, brave, courageous, and hardworking people of Iran. The people of Baluchestan are influenced by the specific conditions of their environment. That is why the enduring and tolerant lifestyle of the Baloch is highlighted in their minimalistic way of life.

Their tolerance toward the problems and hardships may not be seen in any other Iranian tribes. They are most royal in their friendships and most revengeful and stubborn toward their enemies.

The Baloch are skilled in camel riding, archery, hunting, mountain and desert hiking. They care the most about keeping their camels and weapons safe and sound.

Handicrafts of Baluchestan

The most notable handicraft of the Baloch is their Sozan Doozi which is a special kind of Stitch embroidery. The Baloch’s men and women clothing are adorned with this ancient art. The embroidery of the men trousers dates back to the Parthian era. Baloch women also wear local Baluchistan clothing. Due to the variety of colors and types of sewing and embroidery, this type of clothing has been one of the most original Iranian women’s clothing in the past. Fortunately, the culture of sewing such fabrics and clothing has continued to this day.

Baloch’s Stitch Embroidery

The world famous stitch embroidery of women is considered as one of the most notable handicrafts of the Baloch. The colorful silk fabrics with skillful art of embroidery on them make women clothing much expensive. Every Baloch girl sews her own clothes based on her own taste. In this way, she keeps the tradition that she has inherited from her mother and her generation.

Perhaps the first art that all Baloch women learn is the art of embroidery. Many tourists are interested in buying Balochi clothes when they travel to Baluchistan. Today, you can see the embroidery work of Baloch women in other handicrafts such as in jewelry making. The type of patterns on their clothes indicates which tribe among the Baloch tribes, they belong to. In this case, the patterns of their clothing is not just about beauty.  

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