Ajoka to host int'l theatre festival in November

Indian Punjabi film hits Pakistani cinemas

LAHORE:

Ajoka Theatre has announced an upcoming international theatre festival set to take place in Lahore from November 9 to 17, with the theme "Friendship." The festival aims to celebrate cross-cultural relationships between theater artists from around the world. During a press conference held at Alhamra's Literary Corner, Ajoka's Executive Director Shahid Nadeem provided details about the event, which will feature performances from artists representing 12 countries, including India, Iran, Indonesia, Spain, and the United States.

The nine-day event will showcase a variety of performances, including dramas, dance dramas, mime, and comedy plays.

Ajoka's festival is expected to be a landmark cultural event in Lahore, fostering international artistic collaborations and promoting dialogue through the arts.

The 75th meeting of the Board of Governors of the Lahore Arts Council, Alhamra, chaired by Razi Ahmed vowed to promote literature and culture while enhancing the welfare of artists.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the council's participation in an international exhibition at Qatar Museum, which received high praise. The board discussed multiple projects aimed at integrating local culture into their initiatives.

There was a commitment to accelerate ongoing projects, ensuring they are completed promptly. Sarah Rasheed emphasised that the Board's discussions reflect a serious effort to enhance cultural and social life, with special attention given to the welfare of artists and employees.

In a separate development, Punjab's Provincial Minister for Information and Culture, Azma Bokhari, visited the Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts, where she toured various classes, meeting with teachers and students.

Bokhari praised the academy for its contributions to the arts, noting that it plays a critical role in nurturing young talent across 12 different fields of fine arts.

The minister expressed her appreciation for the teachers' dedication and encouraged the students to continue pursuing excellence in their respective fields. Her visit underscored the government's support for the arts and its commitment to providing platforms for artistic growth.

In another cultural highlight, Pakistani actress Saba Qamar has been appointed as UNICEF's first-ever national ambassador for children in Pakistan. Saba Qamar shared her excitement on social media, posting photos with children and expressing her gratitude for the opportunity.

In her statement, she pledged to continue her work for children's welfare through UNICEF's platform and thanked the international organization for trusting her with such an important role.

Saba's appointment is a significant recognition of her humanitarian efforts and her influence as a public figure.

Turning to cinema, the Indian Punjabi film "Mitraan Da Challia Truck Ni" has been released in cinemas across Pakistan.

Distributed by the Distribution Club, the film stars Amrinder Gill, a popular actor known for hits like "Chal Mera Putt" and "Lahoriye." The film has been well-received by audiences, who have praised its heartwarming storyline.