Charity bazaar: Celebrating a cultural revolution

The event showcased talents and products of various nations.

ISLAMABAD: The hall of a local hotel was a mesh of cultures and colours as participants from the world over displayed their respective countries.

The one-day “Mosaic of Cultures”, part of the annual charity bazaar organised by the Pakistan Foreign Office Women Association (PFOWA) in collaboration with the Diplomatic Corps, was held at a hotel here on Saturday.

The PFOWA works on charity, promotion of culture and capacity building, while maintaining several philanthropic programmes under its belt. Revenue generated from the bazaar will be utilised for the flood victims of 2011.

The day started with cultural performances organised by the Diplomatic Corps followed by a programme on the Taxila odyssey depicting the evolution of Pakistani culture.

Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar, the chief guest, praised the charity bazaar stating that such initiatives create interaction and commitment between Pakistan and other nations. “Events [like these] promote a softer image for Pakistan,” she said. Former State Minister for Foreign Affairs Amad Malik agreed, stating that the promotion of Pakistani culture through such events is necessary, especially during these times of terrorism.

An auction and raffle draw was carried out and various prizes distributed, among them a brand new motorcycle and a return ticket to Dubai. The day came to an appealing end through performances by Indonesian and Chinese singers performing Pakistani songs in Urdu. Visitors were treated to a special concert by famous singer and philanthropist Shehzad Roy.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 14^th,  2011.