Punjab literally meaning "The Land of the Five
Rivers", was the granary of undivided India with its burgeoning
fields watered by a network of canals. Much of Punjab came under
Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947. Today, its vigorous
and prosperous people have spread all over India, often as transporters
and traders associated with motor accessories. The most distinctive
Punjabis are the Sikhs, who were given a martial identity by their
revered gurus who opposed the Mughal oppression of the Hindus.
In spite of the determined industrialization of the state, Punjab is still a land
of large farms, robust food and a healthy zest for life. After farming
hours, the tractor often becomes the family jalopy with the mother
and the kids perched on the mudguards, while the father steps on
the diesel.