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Niazi

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Niazi
EthnicityPashtun-Afghan, Punjabi-Pathan
Location Afghanistan  Pakistan
Parent tribeLodi[1]
LanguagePashto, Seraiki, Punjabi, Hindko
Religion Islam

Niazi (Niāzī; IPA: [niːˈɑːziː], Pashto: نيازي), Niazai or Niyazai is one of the largest Pashtun tribes which resides in Afghanistan and northwestern part of Pakistan.[2][3]

Origin

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The earliest work which provides the details about origin of Niazis is Makhzani-i-Afghani (1610 AD), written by Naimatullah under the patronage of Khan Jahan Lodi, an Afghan noble of Mughal emperor Jahangir. Makhzan-i Afghani gives the genealogy of Niazi tribe as:

To Lodi, God Almighty gave three sons, Niazi, Siani, and Dotani.
Niazi had three sons, Bahi, Jam, Khaku.
Jam had seven sons, Bandar, Sambal, Khankhail, Doulatkhail, Isakhail, Marhil, and Haiki.
Marhil had two sons, Hamim and Naili.
Khaku had five sons, Isa, Musa, Mahyar, Khidar.
Isa had two sons, Ala and Gondi.
Ala had two sons, Sud and Saharangh.
Sud had two sons, Jam and Suri. Jam had two sons, Naiku and Michan.[4]

The Niazi tribe is a prominent Pashtun tribe primarily found in Pakistan and Afghanistan. They are part of the larger Lodi tribal confederation, which itself belongs to the Ghilzai branch of the Pashtuns. The tribe has a rich history, with roots that stretch back to the early Islamic era.

Origins and Ancestry: • The Niazis trace their lineage to Niazai, who was a descendant of Lodi, a branch of the Ghilzai Pashtuns. • The name “Niazi” is derived from their ancestor, Niazai. • According to tribal tradition, they migrated from Ghazni (Afghanistan) to parts of what is now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, Pakistan.

Migration and Settlement: • Historically, the Niazi tribe moved southward from Afghanistan due to various reasons, including warfare, economic opportunities, and tribal conflicts. • They eventually settled in areas like Tank, Lakki Marwat, Mianwali, Karak, and Bhakkar. • Many Niazis also established themselves in the Punjab region, where they became influential landowners, warriors, and politicians.

Role in Historical Events: • During the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Era, some Niazis served as military commanders and administrators. • The Niazi tribe played a significant role in regional politics and warfare, particularly during the decline of the Mughal Empire and the rise of Sikh and British powers. • Notably, the Battle of Delhi (1556) between Hemu and Akbar featured Pashtun soldiers from tribes like the Niazis fighting for control of Northern India.

British Era and Modern Times: • During the British Raj, the Niazi tribe was known for resisting colonial control. • Many members of the tribe later integrated into the British administration as soldiers and civil servants. • In modern times, Niazis have continued to be influential in Pakistani politics, military, and civil society.

Cultural Aspects: • The Niazi tribe follows traditional Pashtun customs (Pashtunwali), including hospitality, honor, and revenge. • They primarily speak Pashto and Saraiki, though many also speak Urdu and Punjabi. • Their traditional dress and customs are similar to other Pashtun tribes, with a strong emphasis on cultural pride and identity. The Niazi tribe is a prominent Pashtun tribe primarily found in Pakistan and Afghanistan. They are part of the larger Lodi tribal confederation, which itself belongs to the Ghilzai branch of the Pashtuns. The tribe has a rich history, with roots that stretch back to the early Islamic era.


The Niazis maintain a strong cultural identity rooted in Pashtunwali (the Pashtun code of conduct) and local customs.

1. Language and Dress: • They speak a mix of Pashto, Saraiki, Punjabi, and Urdu. • Traditional dress includes shalwar kameez with a turban (pagrhi), especially during cultural and formal gatherings.

2. Pashtunwali Code:

The Niazis, like other Pashtun tribes, adhere to core principles of Pashtunwali, including: • Melmastia (Hospitality): Treating guests with great honor and generosity. • Nanawatai (Asylum): Offering protection to those who seek refuge. • Badal (Revenge): The right to seek justice and retribution, although it has been moderated by Islamic principles over time. • Nang (Honor): Upholding personal and familial honor is of utmost importance.

3. Jirga System: • Traditional conflict resolution through a Jirga (tribal council) where elders make decisions for disputes, ensuring justice based on tribal customs and Islamic principles.

4. Economic Activities: • Historically, the Niazis have been farmers, soldiers, and traders. • In the modern era, many have become prominent in business, politics, and education. • Areas like Mianwali and Bhakkar are known for agricultural activities involving wheat, cotton, and livestock. Religious Practices: • The Niazi tribe, like most Pashtuns, follows Sunni Islam. • Religious festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are celebrated with traditional zeal, marked by communal prayers, feasting, and charity.

Notable people with the surname

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ Alikuzai, Hamed (10 September 2013). A Concise History of Afghanistan in 25 Volumes (The Niazi Tribe). Vol. 1. United States of America: Trafford Publishing. p. 342. ISBN 9781490714462.
  2. ^ a b Suleman Khanzada (31 August 2018). "Imran Khan or Imran Niazi?". Daily Times (newspaper). Retrieved 16 December 2022.
  3. ^ Saadia Sumbal (28 July 2021). Islam and Religious Change in Pakistan: Sufis and Ulema in 20th Century (Gazetteer of Mianwali District 1915, 24. Punjab). ISBN 9781000415049. Retrieved 16 December 2022.
  4. ^ Ullah, Dorn; Neamat, Bernhard (1836). History Of The Afghans: Translated From The Persian Of Neamet Ullah By Bernhard Dorn Vol. II. London Oriental Translation Fund of Great Britain and Ireland. p. 49.

Further reading

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