Promoting democracy: Cultural festival kicks off at Lok Virsa

In a nation that is facing lack of unity and disharmony, culture can help bring people together. This was said by Senator Jahangir Badar during the opening ceremony of a festival at the Pakistan National Museum of Ethnology, Lok Virsa, on Friday.

The festival aims at creating awareness among the people, especially youth and women, and to sensitise them about the importance of continuity of democracy, said a press release issued by the institute.

The event was held to mark the International Democracy Day-- a day that calls for educating people and promoting democratic ideals.

Traditionally our folk and Sufi culture and literature also calls for supporting the voices of the people, he added.

Appreciating the role of Lok Virsa in documentation, preservation and projection of Pakistan’s cultural heritage, Badar said, “This institution was created by PPP founding chairman Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.”

At the festival, different stalls have been set up by the government, corporate and non-governmental sectors showcasing their services, success stories, achievements. Food court, family entertainment area for families have also been set up. Cultural performances, and fun shows for children are some of the other attractions.

Meanwhile, a painting exhibition of artworks on the theme “Culture and Democracy” is also being held. Over 35 students from different educational institutions including Fatima Jinnah Univeristy, Federal Directorate of Education and Rawalpindi Arts Council are participating in it.

The Lok Virsa was represented in the ceremony by senior officials from museum and media sections whereas DEVCOM was represented by Munir Ahmed and Jahan Ara Baig. The festival will continue till Sunday from 1am to 7pm.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 10^th, 2012.