Karachi takes centre stage in global cultural celebration

Artists from five continents start arriving for 38-day journey of film, dance, and music

KARACHI:

Delegates from Kosovo, Sweden, Argentina, Bangladesh, and the dance troupe 'Street Dancers Congo' have arrived in Karachi, while artists from up to 20 other countries are on their way for the World Culture Festival (WCF), being hosted by the Arts Council of Pakistan (ACP) Karachi over the next 38 days.

The mega event kicks off on Friday (today) and will run until December 7. The ACP is organising the WCF in collaboration with the Sindh government, offering an over month-long celebration of art, music, theatre, and dance from across the globe.

One of the festival's key aims is to "portray a soft image of the country and city," ACP President Ahmad Shah told a press conference alongside Karachi Commissioner Hassan Naqvi. "I want people to forget the wrongful image that the world has of my province and of my city," Shah added.

Both Shah and Naqvi stressed that extensive preparations have been made to ensure the event's success. According to Shah, the ACP has coordinated with foreign ministries to promote cultural diplomacy and strengthen international engagement through the arts.

The festival will feature a weekly two-hour slot dedicated to film screenings, including Sarmad Khoosat's 2022 drama film 'Kamli' and Sohel Rana Boyati's 'Noya Manush' on November 29. In addition, each region and continent will have its own showcase, highlighting diverse artistic expressions from around the world.

The two officials stated that protocols for hosting foreign delegates and guests have been finalised. Arrangements have been made to receive participants at the airport, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience. The Sindh Police have also implemented an elaborate security plan to allow visitors to feel safe and comfortable throughout their stay.

Naqvi noted that the deputy commissioner of the South district, along with relevant provincial departments, has been actively involved in the event. "We are, if not equal, then great partners in this collaboration," he remarked.

Emphasising that local talent remains a central focus of the cultural festival, the ACP president underlined the importance of showcasing Sindh's vibrant arts scene — spanning music, theatre, dance, and visual arts.

The festival will also feature standout performances from legendary artists, including Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, who serves as the festival's ambassador. He is scheduled to perform at the closing ceremony on December 7 at the YMCA Lawn, marking a fitting high point of the event.