Showcasing cultural diversity: G-B’s independence day marked in capital

Lok Virsa displays traditional arts and crafts from the region

ISLAMABAD: The sounds of shehnai and rabab played by musicians from Gilgit-Baltistan filled the air as a man expertly performed a traditional dance with two swords at the Lok Virsa complex on Saturday.

The performance was part of a two-day mela at the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage to celebrate the independence of Gilgit-Baltistan from the Dogra regime.

The mela showcases traditional arts and crafts from the mountainous region. Folk artists and musicians decked out in traditional costumes will perform during two-day mela.

The two-day G-B mela will continue with all its festivities at Lok Virsa complex in Shakarparian till November 27.

Gilgit-Baltistan was liberated from the Dogra rule and declared its independence on November 1, 1947. Dr Fouzia Saeed, executive director Lok Virsa, said that this day reminds us about the great efforts of our leaders and martyrs who played an important role in the independence of G-B.

The festival will continue today from 11 am till 5 pm.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 27^th, 2016.