South Asia’s Regional and Indigenous Knowledge Initiative

We are proud to launch Saraiki.org, a digital initiative focused on the documentation and preservation of the Saraiki language, culture, people, and geography. As a team of researchers, linguists, and cultural enthusiasts, our objective is to create a well-organized repository of Saraiki heritage that contributes to the broader understanding of South Asia’s regional and indigenous knowledge systems. Through this platform, we aim to document oral traditions, historical narratives, literary contributions, and the socio-cultural dynamics of the Saraiki belt.

In our first video, we explore the life and legacy of Khawaja Ghulam Farid (1845–1901), one of the most prominent and respected figures in Saraiki literature. A poet, Sufi scholar, and mystic, Khawaja Farid composed his works primarily in the Saraiki language. His poetry reflects a deep spiritual connection with the divine, critiques colonialism, and emphasizes unity, love, and human dignity. His kafis (short mystical poems) remain foundational in understanding Saraiki poetic tradition and continue to be recited across generations in South Punjab and beyond.

This video introduces viewers to his biography, the thematic elements in his poetry, and his contributions to linguistic and cultural identity within the Saraiki-speaking region. It serves not only as a cultural introduction for a wider audience but also as an academic resource for those interested in regional South Asian literatures and spiritual movements.

We believe that digital platforms have a critical role in preserving linguistic and cultural diversity, especially for communities and languages that have historically been underrepresented. This post marks the beginning of our ongoing efforts to archive, explain, and promote Saraiki heritage for researchers, students, and the general public alike.