US envoy delights in Lok Mela festivities

ISLAMABAD:

The Lok Mela 2025 continued its successful run for the fourth day, attracting an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 visitors. Families, students, artisans, tourists and cultural enthusiasts attended throughout the day, contributing to a vibrant festival environment.

A key highlight of the day was the visit of US Chargé d'Affaires Natalie A Baker, who toured various artisan stalls and met with folk craftsmen and performers.

She appreciated the diversity of Pakistani craftsmanship and cultural expression. Executive Director Lok Virsa, Dr Muhammad Waqas Saleem, accompanied the envoy and briefed her on the cultural exhibits, artisan traditions and the significance of Lok Mela as Pakistan's largest folk festival.

The day concluded with the Lok Virsa Cultural Fusion Night at the Open Air Theatre. Folk artists from Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir presented a collaborative programme featuring regional rhythms, instruments and dance traditions.

The fusion performance received strong applause and reflected national harmony and cultural unity.