Mahira Khan, Javed Akhtar, Shabana Azmi, others to grace Urdu literary festival in Dubai

Notable luminaries like Samina Peerzada, Usmaan Peerzada, Bee Gul will also be in attendance at 'Jashn-e-Rekhta'

In a celebration of the richness of the Urdu language, the eminent Indian poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar and Pakistani actor Mahira Khan are poised to headline the upcoming Urdu literary festival, 'Jashn-e-Rekhta,' in Dubai, as reported by the official Jashn-e-Rekhta website. Scheduled to be held from January 27 to 29 at Zabeel Park, this festival promises to be a vibrant tapestry of poetry, talks, ghazals, storytelling, and cultural exchanges.

The inaugural edition of Jashn-e-Rekhta took place in London last year and was originally slated for February 2019 in Dubai but was cancelled due to the pandemic. Now, with a stellar lineup including actor Shabana Azmi, producer Samina Peerzada, and Bollywood director Shekhar Kapoor, the festival is set to captivate audiences with a diverse array of literary and cultural offerings.

The official website welcomes audiences with a promising statement. "Get ready for a power-packed Jashn-e-Rekhta Dubai 2024 with a global lineup of artists and speakers. An unforgettable experience awaits as we bring the world's finest to Dubai," it invites.

Javed Akhtar is slated to engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Pakistani human rights activist Arfa Sayeda Zehra and actor Adeel Hashmi on the inaugural day of the festival, January 27. With the panel titled, 'Urdu Tehzeeb Aur Rishton Ki Lazzat,' this dynamic panel promises to delve into the intersection of literature, activism, and the beauty of language, offering attendees a unique opportunity to witness a multifaceted discussion.

Adding to the star-studded lineup, the second day of the festival, January 28, will witness the presence of the charismatic Mahira Khan. The acclaimed Pakistani actor will grace the event alongside the iconic Shabana Azmi and Bollywood director Shekhar Kapoor. This gathering of creative minds is expected to explore the diverse facets of the entertainment industry, providing insights into the world of storytelling and character building in a panel called 'Kahaani Se Kirdaar Tak.' The collaboration between these renowned figures from India and Pakistan serves as a testament to the festival's commitment to fostering cultural unity and transcending geopolitical divides.

Furthermore, the second day of Jashn-e-Rekhta will feature another engaging panel, with Samina Peerzada, Usmaan Peerzada, and Bee Gul participating in a separate slot. This session promises to be a compelling exploration of various aspects of the passion behind one's creative line of work, in a panel titled, 'Mera Fann, Meri Zindagi.'

Javed Akhtar, not one to rest on his laurels, is also scheduled for another intriguing panel discussion on the second day of the festival. This additional session ensures that festival-goers will have ample opportunities to witness the brilliance of this literary maestro in various contexts, showcasing the depth and breadth of his contributions to the world of Urdu literature. Another one of the highlights of the event is 'Shab-e Rafta,' a session of Sufi music on the first day that promises to enchant attendees with the mystical and soulful tunes of the Sufi tradition.

Sanjiv Saraf, the founder of the Rekhta Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, emphasised the cosmopolitan nature of Dubai as a key factor in choosing the city as the festival's venue, as reported by The National. He noted that Dubai's thriving Urdu-speaking community is a testament to the rich demographic diversity in the heart of the UAE. “In the current geopolitical climate, Jashn-e-Rekhta in Dubai stands out as a beacon of cultural unity, transcending political divides and fostering connections through the universal language of poetry and shared cultural heritage,” he reportedly stated.

The festival is expected to host around 15,000 visitors from both India and Pakistan, underlining the universal appeal and cultural significance of Urdu literature. In addition to the literary and musical offerings, attendees will have the opportunity to explore an Urdu Bazaar, featuring stalls showcasing a variety of art, handicrafts, and books. The organisers hope to create an immersive experience that goes beyond literary discussions and engages all the senses.

Jashn-e-Rekhta is held under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nayhan, the Minister of Tolerance and Co-existence in the UAE. The festival aims to weave the essence of the Urdu language, its literature, and culture into the cosmopolitan fabric of the UAE for the first time, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation.

Tickets for the event, including the Zabeel Park entry fee, are priced at AED75 and can be purchased on the online ticketing platform Platinum List. As anticipation builds for this cultural extravaganza, Jashn-e-Rekhta is poised to make a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Dubai, uniting diverse communities through the universal language of art and poetry.

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