From Pakistan to Colombia, performers light up World Culture Festival 2025

'Dukhtar’ screening and international workshops drew crowds on the tenth day

On the tenth day of the 39-day World Culture Festival 2025, vibrant performances and creative exchanges highlighted the power of storytelling through theatre, film, music and dance.

The day opened with intensive theatre workshops led by Malaysian actress and director Bella Rahim, UK actor Jan Martin, and Pakistani theatre artist Raheel Siddiqui, attended by students from the Arts Council Theatre Academy and international participants.

 

 

 

 

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Sharing her experience, Bella Rahim spoke about the deeper philosophy of performance, saying, “Theatre is not limited to the stage; every movement and every emotion in life reflects a character.”

Jan Martin focused on developing stage presence and emotional authenticity, noting, “A true actor doesn’t just speak the lines, he lives every word with emotion.” He also conducted hands-on exercises and guided short performances, offering participants real-time feedback.

At the end of the session, Arts Council President Muhammad Ahmad Shah presented bouquets to Bella Rahim and Jan Martin in recognition of their contribution to the festival.

Later, audiences gathered for the screening of Afia Nathaniel’s acclaimed feature film Dukhtar, which tells the story of a mother and her ten-year-old daughter fleeing their home to escape a forced marriage. The film’s portrayal of social realities and emotional intensity resonated deeply with viewers.

Speaking via video link, Nathaniel said, “‘Dukhtar’ connects the cultural essence of all provinces of Pakistan. Child marriage is a serious issue, and our films should reflect real social concerns and provoke thought.”

Filmmaker Najaf Bilgrami, reflecting on the film’s impact, added, “I first watched this film on Netflix — it’s a powerful piece of cinema that we shot during the winter, and it remains one of Pakistan’s finest films.”

The festival’s theatrical lineup included the comedy play Mulaqat, written by Jean Pierre Martez, adapted by Waqas Akhtar, and directed by Usama Ranjha. Starring Tooba Naeem and Waqas Akhtar, the play unfolds at a suburban railway platform where two strangers meet after their train is cancelled, leading to an unexpected and life-altering exchange. The sharp dialogue and performances drew warm applause from the audience.

The evening concluded with Rhythm of the World, a grand music and dance showcase that blended diverse traditions through movement and light. The lineup featured Riaz by Cayena Folfolk (Colombia), Gillian Rhodes (USA), Luc Skyz, Tommy Hill (UK), and Nighat Chaudhry (Pakistan).

 

 

 

 

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Their collective performance earned standing ovations and closed the day on a note of cultural harmony.

Through its mix of workshops, cinema, theatre, and live performances, the festival’s tenth day underscored art’s ability to bridge cultures and spark dialogue across borders.