Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Riches Shine at Lok Mela

Rehan Khan

Islamabad:  The annual Lok Mela, held at Lok Virsa, is in full swing, celebrating the diverse cultural heritages from Pakistan and beyond.

This year, the festival features a vibrant stall from Saudi Arabia, offering an immersive experience of the Kingdom’s rich culture, showcasing traditional tastes, attire, and hospitality.

The Saudi stall, organized by the Saudi Embassy, has quickly become one of the major attractions at the ten-day festival, drawing large crowds with its authentic representation of Saudi traditions.

Adorned with intricate decor and cultural symbols, the stall presents visitors with a variety of traditional offerings, including premium Saudi dates, known for their distinct texture and sweetness, alongside the aromatic fragrance of Arabian ‘gahwa’ (coffee).The warm and welcoming Saudi hospitality is evident as stall attendants serve these delicacies with great care, captivating visitors eager to experience the Kingdom’s heritage.

In an interview with APP, Saudi Press Attaché Dr Naif Al-Otaibi expressed his pride in representing Saudi culture at such an esteemed international festival.

“Saudi Arabia is rich in tradition, history, and culture. Lok Mela is an exceptional platform to share our heritage with the people of Pakistan, and it also highlights the close ties between our two nations,” he said.

Dr. Al-Otaibi also highlighted the long-standing cultural and diplomatic relationships between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, emphasizing their growing cooperation across various sectors over the years.

Saudi Labour Attaché Majed Baker, who was also present at the stall, underscored the importance of events like Lok Mela in fostering cross-cultural understanding.

“Our stall is not just a showcase of our culture; it is an opportunity to deepen the cultural connection with our Pakistani brothers and sisters. The response has been overwhelming,” he remarked, noting the steady flow of visitors to the stall.During an official visit, Hassan Nisar Jamy, Secretary of the National Heritage and Culture Division, expressed his appreciation for the Saudi stall’s meticulous display.

“The Saudi stall adds a wonderful international flavor to Lok Mela, reflecting the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia,” he said. Jamy commended the Saudi team for their dedication in showcasing their culture and emphasized the importance of such international contributions to Pakistan’s cultural landscape.

The Saudi stall also features traditional music and decor, further enhancing its appeal to families, youth, and cultural enthusiasts. Many visitors were seen taking photographs with the intricate artifacts and admiring the traditional Saudi clothing and handicrafts on display.

The Lok Mela, which continues for ten days, boasts numerous stalls representing countries from across the globe, each offering a unique blend of flavors and styles.

However, the Saudi stall stands out with its strong connection to Pakistani visitors, reaffirming the enduring friendship between the two nations. The Saudi Embassy has extended an open invitation to all festival-goers to explore and enjoy this enriching cultural experience.

As always, the Lok Mela serves as a cornerstone of cultural appreciation and exchange, drawing thousands from all backgrounds to celebrate the beauty of diversity and tradition.