Punjab Pavilion wows visitors at Lok Mela

Festival celebrates province's heritage through captivating blend of art & music

ISLAMABAD:

The annual Lok Mela at Folk Heritage is currently in full swing, showcasing the vibrant and diverse culture of the province.

The festival is a captivating blend of traditional music, dance, folklore and exquisite handicrafts, drawing visitors from all walks of life.

The Punjab Pavilion, a focal point of the Mela, offers a mesmerising display of centuries-old crafts. Over 50 skilled artisans, both men and women, have set up stalls showcasing their expertise in various disciplines, including weaving, tie-and-dye, block printing, embroidery, needlework, pottery, carving, lacquer art, furniture making, jewellery and decorative items, basketry, camel bone carving and shoemaking.

Among the talented artisans, Suraya Abdullah from Kururpakka is renowned for her beautifully designed chunris in a variety of colours. Amir Bakhsh, a master of block printing in natural colours, has trained numerous individuals in this art form. Riaz Ahmed Mughal, a skilled craftsman from Sargodha's Silanwali district, is showcasing his family's legacy of lacquer art on vases, plates, and lamps.

The Punjab Pavilion and its skilled artisans were praised by the Information and Culture Department Parliamentary Secretary Shazia Rizwan when she visited. PAC Executive Director Muhammad Tanvir Majid and Arts Council Director Sajjad Hussain welcomed Shazia Rizwan on her arrival at the Punjab Pavilion.

Observing the efforts made to represent the unique culture of the region, she remarked, "Handicrafts are a regular industry in Punjab. Presenting artisans from across the province at the national level is undoubtedly an achievement of the PAC. Artisans from every part of the province have been invited to the Punjab Pavilion to represent the entire province." Shazia Rizwan visited all the stalls along with Tanvir Majid during her visit and praised the artisans for their skills.

Executive Director Muhammad Tanvir Majid while briefing the Parliamentary Secretary said that Punjab is a culturally rich province where many cultures are prevalent. "The Government of Punjab is rendering valuable services for promoting art and culture in the province. Around 50 skilled artisans from across the province have been invited to the Punjab Pavilion."

"Folk artists from all corners of Punjab are performing in the festival. Bhangra, Ladi, Jhomar and Simi folk dances are also part of the Punjab Pavilion. The historical building of "Chouburgi" and the glimpse of traditional village also add to the glory of Punjab Pavilion," he added.

According to Director Sajjad Hussa the Punjab Pavilion was to entertain folk music lovers with handicrafts and performances throughout the day. Additionally, green bread and lassi had been especially arranged at traditional food stalls for foreigners.

The festival also features a daily cultural music festival that is held from 10am to 10pm, where folk singers and musicians enthral the audience with their energetic performances. On November 10, the Punjab Culture Department organised a special musical night at the Lok Virsa Open Air Theatre, where renowned folk artists and musicians put up their performances. The Lok Mela will continue till November 17.