The PNCA hall exhibited the rich history of shrines and darbars of Multan, Bahawalpur, Cholistan and surrounding areas.
The “Cultural expression of South Punjab”, a book by Sajida Haider Vandal, was the theme for Asian Study Group’s (ASG) 38th opening ceremony here on Friday.
The opening ceremony began with a warm welcome to all existing and new members of ASG. Renown Psychic Hans Christian King was asked to introduce Vandal, the guest speaker and author, a versatile architect who has also served as the principal of the National College of Arts (NCA) in Lahore.
Vandal began with an introduction to South Punjab and took the audience on a mystical expedition through the ancient shrines of the Pirs, Multan’s Shah Sabwari to Cholistan, Chanan Pir and so forth, captivating the listeners throughout the session.
The audience journeyed on to the mystical legends of the Sufi’s, Pirs and the practices of their devotees. The phenomenon of the folklore and their fascinating history was delved into and pondered over; sufisim in all its glory: their art, architecture, poetry and their thirst to convey the mystical message though Qawali and Sufiana Kalam.
How many of us are aware of the history of the Cholistan Tribe and their homage to Chanan Pir, or the understanding of the Sufi Establishment? The birth of the unique architectural styles of the shrines with their geometrical patterns, calligraphy, frescos and mosaic tiles that can be witnessed to this very day at the Shah Gardezi in Multan or the tomb of Musa Pak Shaheed in Uch Sharif.
A Canadian couple, James and Julie, were also present at the opening ceremony. Julie said, “We are here because we heard about the great activities carried out throughout the year and we were interested in learning about the country we are now in.”
Maria, a Ukrainian tourist, said she was looking forward to learning about the local culture and literature. These sentiments could be felt in the ambience of the evening where everyone was eager to learn and share about the Sufi culture.
Found in 1973, AGS brings together members, which include foreigners, to discover the culture, geography, history, and heritage of the Asian region, particularly that of Pakistan.
ASG constitutes 17 clubs that offer various activities and events, from adventure and archaeology to cycling, filming and even literature. Each club ensures that there is an activity and event at least once each month.
The group initiates its activities in September, which are then carried out till May.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 16th, 2011.
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