What is "baradari"

Etymology 1 n. A square building or pavilion with twelve doors designed to allow free flow of air. Etymology 2

n. The existence of social stratum that dictate political alliances among South Asian Muslims.

Barādarī or Birādrī means Brotherhood originating from the Persian word Baradar meaning "Brother". In Pakistan and India it is used to denote a number of social strata among South Asian Muslims (see Caste system among Muslims). According to author Anatol Lieven, "the most important force in [Pakistani] society" are Baradari, usually far stronger than any competing religious, ethnic, or ideological cause. Parties and political alliances in Pakistan are based on Baradari, not ideology.

The political effects of baradari or bradree among Pakistanis in the United Kingdom were attacked during the Bradford West by-election, 2012 which resulted in the gain of a House of Commons seat for the Respect Party and its candidate George Galloway.

Baradari also Bara Dari is a building or pavilion with 12 doors designed to allow free flow of air. The structure has three doorways on every side of the square shaped structure.

Because of their outstanding acoustic features, these buildings were particularly well-suited for performances by Raqasaz (dancer)s—the noble courtesans of India—and other artistes. They were also valued for their fresh air during hot summers. Bara in Urdu/Hindi means Twelve and Dar is door.

Baradari may refer to:

• Baradari (building), a historic 12-door building structure
• Baradari (brotherhood) , a Persian word for brotherhood
• Baradari, Pakistan, an area of North Karachi