Pakistan is known for various aspects politically, socially, and economically, but one standout feature is its vibrant and intricately painted trucks that travel the highways, placing the country prominently on the global artistic map. These trucks are not merely vehicles but also serve as epic pieces of art, each carefully crafted to convey personal messages and reflections of the truck owners.
For truck drivers, these vehicles are like a second home, and they pour time and resources into making them comfortable and inviting. There is a deep emotional bond between the drivers and their trucks.
The artwork adorning these trucks goes beyond just colors. It includes a unique combination of carefully selected objects and themes, such as beads, flowers, mirrors, depictions of birds, national heroes, celebrities, landscapes, images of saints, and more.
Some trucks display poetic verses or religious phrases prominently on their exterior, while others feature bells hanging from the chassis that jingle as the truck moves along, earning them the nickname “jingle trucks.”
This tradition has become deeply embedded in Pakistani culture. Its origins can be traced back to the 1920s when the country first introduced the iconic British-made Bedford trucks. Initially, the trucks were painted with company names for easy identification, especially for illiterate individuals. Over time, the designs evolved into bold and flamboyant statements, setting the trucks apart and making them stand out. Today, these hand-painted trucks are recognized as some of the most distinctive and globally renowned artwork on large vehicles.
Image Source: Pixabay
