The Role Of The Continuity of Pamiri Languages in Preserving the Indigenous Culture Of Badakhshan

چکیده

One of the features that distinguishes and highlights Badakhshan from other provinces of Afghanistan is its linguistic and cultural diversity. In addition to Dari Persian, which serves as the common language of the people of this province, several Pamir languages are also spoken, particularly in the border regions of Badakhshan. This study, conducted based on a descriptive–analytical method, reveals that the Pamir languages, while sharing certain linguistic and cultural elements, also possess a range of distinct linguistic and cultural values unique to them. The linguistic and cultural similarities among these languages indicate the existence of a common historical origin and background. At the same time, the existing linguistic and cultural differences among them reflect their relative independence and distinct identities. Consequently, a broad overlap between language and culture can be observed. From this perspective, describing and analyzing one is closely connected to defining and describing the other. On the one hand, every language is born and develops within a particular cultural context; on the other hand, the language used in a society reflects the culture and the social values that have evolved within its cultural framework. Therefore, it becomes evident that strengthening a language contributes to the strengthening of culture. Conversely, neglecting a language leads to the marginalization of the culture and cultural values of its speakers. The findings of the present study thus demonstrate that through the promotion, continuity, and investment in Pamir languages, it is possible to preserve and expand the unique cultural heritage and values of their speakers. Otherwise, many ancestral, identity-based, and cultural values of the Pamiri people—and, more broadly, the indigenous culture of the people of Badakhshan—may gradually decline and disappear.

Keywords: Badakhshan, continuity, Pamir, language, culture.