The Shugnans are mentioned in Chinese chronicles of the 6th and 7th centuries. According to them, they always controlled the Shugnan trade route. The legends say that the Shugnans were a warlike people who raided caravans.
The Shugnans, also known as Kushans, Shugnan-Rash or Shugnan-Rushan, belong to the Tajik group of peoples. They live on both sides of the border with Tajikistan and Afghanistan, mainly in the Pamir Mountains.
Most Shugnan settlements consist of several large families with a common male ancestor. Villages are usually located along river streams. Small villages, or kishlaks, have a layout resembling a town square. Since there are no mosques in Ismaili Islam, the social centre of the village is the common house, which serves as a place for joint feasts and weddings.
Shugnan life is based on agriculture, with cereals and legumes as the main crops. When the terrain permits, the Shugnan plough, plant and harvest with mechanised tools. However, in remote areas, traditional methods of ploughing with oxen and ploughs are still used.
Cattle, sheep and goats also play an important role in the Shugnan economy. Dried fruits are a popular addition to a diet consisting mainly of grains and dairy products, and sometimes meat. The Shugnan people are known for their handmade products such as carpets and woollen fabrics. They are also noted for their high quality wooden utensils and pottery. Some of them are engaged in trade in the few towns in their region.
Traditionally, Shugnans marry their paternal or maternal cousins or brothers and sisters. Maternal uncles are often involved in organising marriages. Until recently, the age of marriage for girls was 15 years. Now the acceptable age has been raised to 18 or upon completion of education. Today, both boys and girls have the opportunity to pursue higher education.
