Winter festival showcases diversity

Arts council introduces empowerment initiatives

LAHORE:

The city of Lahore is currently hosting a vibrant 16-day winter festival, "Lahore Lahore Aye," which celebrates the rich tapestry of cultural diversity.

The event features a diverse array of cultural activities, including theatre festivals, musical performances, children's programs, a book fair, literary and cultural conferences, exhibitions, and much more.

One of the highlights of the festival is the "Punjab Art Exhibition" at the Alhamra Art Gallery, which marked the beginning of this grand cultural celebration.

Each day of the festival is filled with colorful and engaging programs that cater to art enthusiasts and the culturally curious.

Eminent artists, actors, and singers from Pakistan are participating in the event, drawing the admiration and attention of their fans. Lahore Arts Council has also launched "Alhamra Melodies," a platform for young artists to showcase their talents.

This initiative is rejuvenating the music scene, with new and emerging singers actively participating in the festival.

In addition to the cultural festivities, Alhamra Arts Council has recently undergone renovations, enhancing its architectural beauty and overall appeal.

During the festival, a farewell ceremony was held in honour of Information and Culture Secretary Ali Nawaz Malik, attended by senior officials who expressed their appreciation for Malik's contributions and wished him success in his upcoming role in England.

In discussions during the event, Punjab Arts Council Executive Director Bilal Haider revealed ongoing efforts to amend the Drama Act of 1875.

Once approved by the cabinet, this amendment will grant councils the authority to regulate theaters. Additionally, special art and culture classes are being organised in regional offices of the Arts Council, offering participants diplomas and certificates for their achievements. Furthermore, children with interests in arts and culture will have access to loans of up to Rs1 million to enhance their skills.

In an unexpected turn of events, Lahore Arts Council Chairman Qasim Ali Shah resigned from his position.

Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi accepted his resignation and lauded Shah's invaluable contributions to art, culture, and literature promotion. Shah is credited with upholding Alhamra's rich traditions and achieving significant progress within a short timeframe.

Furthermore, the income generated from the first day of every play in theatres will become a part of the artist endowment fund, as per the proposed amendment to the Drama Act.

Punjab Information and Culture Minister Aamir Mir announced these measures during the 10th meeting of the Board of Governors of the Punjab Council of Arts, reaffirming the government's commitment to eradicating obscenity from stage plays.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, October 30^th, 2023.