Lok Mela: Art and culture festival kicks off

“I have brought a good number of traditional items with a hope to earn some money,” says an artisan.

The soft opening of the mega annual Lok Mela (folk and cultural festival) was held at the Garden Avenue on Thursday, said a press release.

The 17-day event, organised by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage, known as Lok Virsa, features artisans-at-work, musical shows, food courts, puppet, magic, gymnastic shows, stage performances, dance performances and many other attractions for children and families.

“The event aims at providing a platform to the craftspeople, folk artists, artisans, performers and dance groups to demonstrate their skills and win recognition at national level,” Lok Virsa Executive Director Khalid Javaid said while talking about the objectives of the festival.

“It would also offer an opportunity to the residents of the twin cities and the diplomatic community to not only witness various facets of Pakistan’s culture but also buy traditional items of daily use on an affordable prices,” he said.

An artisan showcasing wood carving art at the festival said that Lok Virsa’s initiatives to promote handicrafts were commendable. “I have brought a good number of traditional items with a hope to earn some money.”Many other artisans, who came from far-flung and remote areas, also expect some business from the festival.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 20^th, 2013.