Islamabad Literature Festival unfurls 10th edition
Speakers and guests at the inauguration of the Islamabad Literature Festival (left) and artist Zashane Malik’s performance on the opening day. PHOTOS: EXPRESS
The 10th edition of the Islamabad Literature Festival (ILF), one of Pakistan's most anticipated literary events, is set to begin today and go on till November 10. It will be held at the Gandhara Citizen's Club, Fatima Jinnah (F-9) Park.
Organised by Oxford University Press (OUP) Pakistan in collaboration with Getz Pharma, this year's ILF celebrates its decennial with the theme, "Sustainability: Words Change Mindsets."
The annual festival of literature, arts and intellectual exchange promises a dynamic array of voices, ideas and perspectives, creating an enriching experience for literature enthusiasts, writers, scholars and the general public. With 55 sessions and 15 book launches, ILF 2024 offers an extensive lineup of discussions, workshops and cultural activities.
OUP Pakistan Managing Director Arshad Saeed Husain emphasised the importance of sustainability and the transformative power of words. He highlighted the festival's role in inspiring change, challenging outdated perspectives, and celebrating the art of storytelling. "Literature has the unique power to shape perspectives, inspire action, and drive societal change. As we celebrate the 10th edition of the Islamabad Literature Festival, we're not only looking back on a decade of fostering dialogue but also forward to a future where words can lead us to a more sustainable and inclusive world. ILF serves as a vital platform for meaningful conversations that challenge conventional thinking and ignite new ideas, empowering individuals to contribute towards a better Pakistan."
This year's ILF will feature renowned authors, poets, and intellectuals from around the world, who will engage in panel discussions on literature, history, current affairs and socio-political issues. The inaugural keynote address will be delivered by H.E. Jane Marriott CMG OBE, British High Commissioner to Pakistan, alongside distinguished speakers such as renowned poet Zehra Nigah, former Pakistan representative to the UN Maleeha Lodhi, Federal Minister for Finance & Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Special Secretary of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, Provincial Minister of School Education for Punjab, Rana Sikandar Hayat, Urdu poet, scholar and litterateur Iftikhar Arif and eminent scholar, creative writer, critic and researcher, Najeeba Arif.
With an impressive roster of national and international speakers, ILF's 10th edition will continue its mission of fostering cultural dialogue, literary discourse, and the exchange of diverse perspectives. Notable participants include Hamid Mir, Nasim Zehra, Faisal Bari, Kishwar Naheed, Anwar Masood, Alamgir Hashmi, Baela Raza Jamil, Andrew Coombe, Muneeza Shamsie and many others.
The festival will also feature a book fair, offering a diverse selection of books from various genres, giving attendees the chance to explore and purchase works by their favourite authors. Cultural performances, including music, dance and other forms of artistic expression will showcase Pakistan's vibrant art scene, allowing attendees to experience the richness of Pakistani culture.
This year's Islamabad Literature Festival promises to be a landmark event, celebrating a decade of promoting literature and intellectual exchange in Pakistan.