Festival showcases literary heritage
ILF 2024, organised by the Oxford University Press (OUP), featured 55 sessions on topics ranging from Pakistani English literature to the education system and social media censorship. Photo credit: Zunairah Qureshi/Express
The English Literary Society (ELS) of the National University of Modern Languages (NUML) hosted its annual Literature Fest 2024, celebrating Pakistan's rich cultural heritage and literary brilliance.
The event brought together students, faculty and distinguished guests for a colourful display of creativity, unity, and patriotism, leaving an ineradicable impression on all attendees. At the outset, Head of the English Department Dr Muntazar Mehdi, welcomed the audience, emphasising the importance of literature and culture in shaping identities. "Through events like the NUML Literature Fest, we aim to reconnect our students with their roots, noting that such efforts play a vital role in promoting Pakistan's rich cultural heritage".
The event was attended by Pro-Rector Academics, Dr Safeer Awan, and renowned literary critic, short-story and fiction writer Muhammad Hameed Shahid (Tamgha-e-Imtiaz) as the Chief Guest. The festival celebrated the unfaltering spirit of Pakistan's traditions and literature. They hailed NUML's commitment to preserving cultural identity in a fast-changing world.
"In today's era, where it is increasingly difficult for individuals to remain connected to their cultural values, NUML has always taken steps to keep our traditions' essence alive. This initiative has stirred up love and pride for Pakistan's culture in the hearts of every individual," remarked Muhammad Hameed Shahid.
The festival was a kaleidoscope of events including soulful recitations of Hamad and Qalam-e-Iqbal, a lively Rabab performance, and a thought-provoking theatrical act, "Nightingale and the Rose". The vivacious Bait Bazi competition and cultural poetry performances added a lively charm to the event.