AKHAANS, in Punjabi Language, are a combination of proverbs, idioms and pithy says which encompass the entire range of a thought or an idea in a few words. They are a potent force to express effectively. They have been developed, over the centuries, as reprositories of wit, wisdom and humour. They transcend all boundaries of caste, creed and colour and inter-mingle well with contemporary expressions. The superiority of AKHAANS to other forms of folk-lore can be judged from the popularity they enjoy and the currency they have amongst all the people, young and old, rustic as well as highly intellectual. They play a vital role in the daily life of the people of the land of five rivers and provide a perennial source of wit and humour. Whenever a piece of advice has to be tendered and a particular type of behaviour or action has to be encouraged or discouraged, the Punjabi takes a recourse to AKHAANS. There is an AKHAAN for every occasion and situation. Punjabi AKHAANS are a true reflection of the heart and soul of the people and grow out of their social scenario. They are a constant source of inspiration to the people. They truly reflect the life and mode of living of the simple predominantly agrarian people of the Punjab. Punjabi AKHAANS portray habits, thoughts, sense of  beauty, sarcasm, satire, wit and humour and cover extensively every aspect of human behaviour. The AKHAANS, especially on human failings, vices and shortcomings, are very fascinting. They are poignant, stimulating and possess hidden advices. They often present colourful images taken from daily life lived in the Punjab. While vice is despised in the AKHAANS, virtue is eulogised. They urge patience, humility, sweetness, hospitality, generosity, friendship, fellowship, amity, understanding and gratitude. The repertoire of Punjabi AKHAANS is very rich and variegated.