Provincial Colors Shine Bright at Lok Mela Festival

News Desk

Islamabad: The highly anticipated “Lok Mela” festival commenced on Friday at the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa), marking the institute’s 50th anniversary.

This year’s celebration offers a vivid display of Pakistan’s cultural richness, showcasing provincial pavilions, artisan stalls, folk music, dance performances, and an array of traditional crafts.

Secretary of the National Heritage and Culture Division, Hassan Nasir Jamy, officiated the event’s opening as the chief guest, in a ceremony attended by diplomats, provincial representatives, artisans, artists, media, and the public from across the country.

In his address, Jamy commended Lok Virsa’s role in presenting an authentic image of Pakistan to the world and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting the nation’s cultural heritage internationally. He highlighted the Youth Pavilion’s role in empowering young people and countering extremism through cultural engagement.

Executive Director of Lok Virsa, Muzaffar Ali Burki, spoke on the occasion, emphasizing the festival’s importance in fostering cultural unity across Pakistan’s provinces. He also expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Uzbekistan, and Indonesia for their participation in the International Pavilion, underscoring the festival’s global appeal.

In a tribute to Pakistan’s traditional crafts, Lok Virsa honored two notable artisans during the ceremony: Sheikh Muhammad Yusuf and Ms. Sania from Kailash, presenting them with a turban and shawl in recognition of their contributions to preserving local heritage.

The 50th Lok Mela, which runs from November 8 to 17, is set to be the largest in its history, with nearly 500 artisans, musicians, performers, and entrepreneurs gathering to celebrate the country’s cultural diversity.

The festival lineup includes musical nights, an International Pavilion, a Youth Pavilion, and a bustling craft bazaar. Attendees can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, craft workshops, and authentic local cuisine.

According to an official, the event aims to strengthen national unity by celebrating Pakistan’s indigenous folk heritage and providing a national platform for artisans and performers. All provinces, along with Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, are participating with cultural pavilions, each showcasing unique regional traditions.

The Lok Mela promises a vibrant celebration of Pakistan’s cultural heritage, uniting its diverse regions in a festival of art, music, and craft.