Sukkur, The two-day “Pakistan Literature Festival 2023” in Sukkur, organized jointly by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi and IBA University Sukkur, concluded after vibrant sessions on science, literature, Sindhi culture, history, and regional movements. Drawing a significant crowd, the festival saw an array of activities from literary sessions to musical concerts, with special stalls reflecting the richness of Sindhi culture taking center stage.
According to a news release by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, the festival was attended by notable figures from various fields, including writers, poets, singers, and students. Among the events, debates and discussions with prominent literary and political personalities, as well as a mushaira, musical programs, and stalls displaying books, apparel, and handicrafts resonating with Sindhi culture, garnered significant attention. The closing ceremony had a distinguished list of attendees: President of the Arts Council Muhammad Ahmad Shah, Mayor of Sukkur Arslan Islam Sheikh, Chairman of the District Council Kumail Haider Shah, Vice-Chancellor of IBA Dr. Asif Ahmad Sheikh, and President of Sukkur Arts Council Mumtaz Bukhari, to name a few. The event was moderated by Huma Mir.
Muhammad Ahmad Shah, President of the Arts Council, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception of the festival by the Sukkur community and emphasized the importance of writers and poets as national treasures. He also acknowledged the indispensable support of IBA University Sukkur, the Mayor of Sukkur, and the Chairman of the District Council in making the festival a reality. Dr. Asif Ahmed Sheikh, Vice Chancellor of IBA University Sukkur, seeing the festival’s success, shared plans to bring the event back to Sukkur in February, hinting at potentially inviting renowned musician Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. Meanwhile, Mayor Arslan Islam Sheikh highlighted the global recognition of the Pakistan Literature Festival and expressed aspirations for a better Pakistan in solidarity with the global Muslim community.
Chairman of the District Council, Syed Kamil Haider Shah, countered any negative perceptions about Sukkur and thanked Ahmed Shah for selecting the city as the festival’s venue. Among the standout sessions was poetry by Tehzeeb Hafi and Ali Zareon, which resonated deeply with the youth. Asim Azhar’s session also garnered significant attention, leading up to a musical concert featuring prominent artists like Saif Samejo, Wahab Bugti, ACMA band, Sound of Kolachi, Faqeer Allah Rakhio, Faqeer Ayaz, Jahanzeb Shah, and Aslan Shaikh, captivating the audience with their performances.