Shared humanity shines at World Culture Festival

The second World Culture Festival opened with vibrant energy at the Arts Council of Pakistan, transforming Karachi into a global stage for artistic expression and cultural exchange. With over 1,000 artists representing 142 countries, the week-long celebration marks a dramatic expansion from last year's inaugural edition, which featured participants from 44 nations.

The festival's opening ceremony featured a theme song and a visual recap of the 2024 edition, followed by a rich lineup of performances.

At the festival, renowned Pakistani artist Amin Gulgee's live performance infused the Arts Council courtyard with the vibrant hues of performing art, while the traditional Balochi dance "Leva" captivated the audience and became a highlight of the evening.

Audiences were treated to Sufi melodies by Shah Jo Faqir (Pakistan), classical rhythms from Madan Gopal (Nepal), and contemporary sounds by Lucy Tasker (Belgium), Ammar Ashkar (Syria), Akbar Khamiso Khan (Pakistan), and Zakaria Haffar (France)—a short film from Kiribati, Love Note to an Island, spotlighted environmental themes.

The event also honored Sindh's cultural legacy, paying tribute to poets like Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai and showcasing traditional music. Theater, film screenings, and visual art exhibitions are set to run throughout the week, drawing thousands of visitors. International guests and dignitaries attended the opening, affirming Karachi's role as a welcoming, resilient city where the world gathers to celebrate the universal language of the arts.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, speaking at the inauguration, described Karachi as "unpredictable, vibrant, and alive," and praised the festival's growth as a testament to Pakistan's commitment to building cultural bridges. He lauded Ahmed Shah for turning a bold idea into a global platform for unity through art.

Murad Shah emphasised the power of art to heal and connect in times of division, calling the festival a shared language of humanity. He also acknowledged Culture Minister Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah for supporting young artists and reaffirmed the government's commitment to the arts as a form of soft power. International guests were welcomed, reinforcing Karachi's image as a city where the world feels at home.