Heritage takes centre stage as Lok Mela begins

Lok Mela 2025 will begin the celebration of Pakistan's rich cultural heritage today at 4pm, November 7. This year's festival holds special significance as it marks 50 years of the establishment of Lok Virsa. The festival will continue until November 16, 2025.

The 10-day cultural extravaganza, organised by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) under the National Heritage and Culture Division, promises a captivating journey through the diverse traditions, crafts, music and cuisines that define the cultural mosaic of Pakistan. Artisans, performers and cultural aficionados from across the country will converge in the federal capital to celebrate Pakistan's vibrant heritage.

Displaying a vibrant tapestry of regional artistry, the stalls and pavilions at Lok Mela will feature all provinces of Pakistan including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The festival will also present live folk music, traditional dance performances, handicraft demonstrations and culinary stalls offering a variety of traditional foods.

With the theme of Lok Mela 2025 as "Yakjehti k Rang, Lok Virsa k Sang" (The colours of unity, alongside Lok Virsa), the festival aims to promote national cohesion and cultural appreciation. This year's edition will also include revived traditional attractions, such as Folk Theatre and Putli Tamasha (puppet show), alongside performances by renowned artists, including Sufi and folk musicians.

Visitors will have the chance to enjoy traditional Balochi Sajji, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's special tea, and a host of unique handicraft items, while also getting the chance to learn about indigenous crafts like pottery, leatherwork and stone carving. Moreover, the festival will also host an international pavilion featuring delegates from 12 countries.