10th Faiz Festival 2026 opens at Alhamra

Opening ceremony drew delegates from Pakistan and abroad, reflecting global resonance of Faiz's message

LAHORE:

The 10th edition of the Faiz Festival 2026 opened on Friday at the Lahore Arts Council, Alhamra, marking the start of a three-day celebration of literature, art and the enduring legacy of Faiz Ahmed Faiz.

The inaugural ceremony began with welcoming remarks that set a dignified tone for the event.

Chairperson of the Faiz Foundation Salima Hashmi, Chairman Alhamra Razi Ahmed, Executive Director Alhamra Muhammad Nawaz Gondal, Naeem Bukhari and other were also present.

Welcoming delegates from across Pakistan and abroad, Razi Ahmed highlighted Alhamra's role as a leading cultural institution committed to preserving Lahore's literary and artistic heritage. Muhammad Nawaz Gondal described the festival as a major initiative supported by the government of Punjab and the Punjab Information and Culture Department, reaffirming the government's commitment to intellectual and cultural engagement through Alhamra's platform.

Adeel Hashmi recited Faiz's poetry, drawing applause for his powerful renditions, while Naeem Bukhari shared personal anecdotes about the poet. Momtaza Mehri and Salima Hashmi thanked participants and audiences for their continued support of Faiz's legacy.

The ceremony was hosted by Amna, and a curated exhibition by Naveen was formally inaugurated on the occasion.

The opening ceremony drew delegates from Pakistan and abroad, reflecting the global resonance of Faiz's message.