Jashan-e-Eliya enlivens Lahore’s art scene

Multiple events were held by Alhamra to commemorate renowned artists

LAHORE:

Known as the city of living hearts, Lahore has always been known as the hub of cultural activities. The arts continued to flourish this week as artists and singers received ample opportunities to express their talents and craft.

The biggest event of the week was the three-day celebration of the famous poet June Elia. The opening ceremony at Alhamra was attended by Provincial Information Minister Amir Mir, Secretary Information and Culture Ali Nawaz Malik, famous writer and poet Iftikhar Arif, Kishwar Naheed, Ataul Haq Qasmi, Munawar Saeed, Asghar Nadeem Syed. On the last day of the event on Tuesday, several sessions focused on June Elia, Bait Bazi, social media and contemporary demands.

Renowned poets such as Iftikhar Arif, Ataul Haq Qasmi and Syed Bilal Haider captivated audiences with their revolutionary and romantic poetry. During the Jashan-e-Eliya, the book stalls at Alhamra also became the center of attention of literary enthusiasts and visitors. Citizens also enjoyed delicious food in the court.

Meanwhile, an 8-day watercolor painting workshop at the Alhamra Cultural Complex Gaddafi Stadium was attended by citizens, while renowned artist Dr Ijaz Anwar trained participants during the workshop. On the last day of the work, Secretary Information and Culture Ali Nawaz Malik congratulated the artists who completed the workshop. Prizes were also distributed.

Separately, a seminar was organized to mark World Museum Day at the Gaddafi Stadium. Renowned artists Quddus Mirza, Tania Sohail and Sana Durrani said that museums are mirrors of our memories. A large number of people participated in the seminar.

Additionally, a photo exhibition was organized to commemorate Pakistan Martyrs Day at the Art Gallery of Lahore Arts Council Alhamra. Provincial Minister for Information and Culture Punjab Aamir Mir, Secretary Malik and Executive Director Alhamra Mohammad Salim Sagar inaugurated the exhibition. Over a hundred artists depicted the services and sacrifices of Pakistan’s soldiers through their artwork.

Meanwhile, a 25-member delegation of Government College University students visited Alhamra Art Museum. Staff showed them the exhibited works of art and also delivered a briefing about them. In the museum, world-renowned artists Abdul Rehman Chaghatai, Ustad Allah Bakhsh, Sadiqin, Shakir Ali, S. Safdar, Hanif Ramey, Ahmed Parvez, Colin David and Aslam Kamal were displayed.

Additionally, the 72nd meeting of the Lahore Arts Council’s Board of Governors took place on May 30th.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 3^rd, 2023.