Wednesday, November 19

LOK MELA-SINDH CULTURAL MUSIC NIGHT ELECTRIFIES LOK MELA

PRESS RELEASE LOK MELA– DCELEBRATES THE MELODIOUS SPIRIT OF AZAD JAMMU & KASHMIR The seventh day of Lok Mela resonated with the soulful rhythms and rich cultural heritage of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK). Thousands of visitors exceeding 200,000 attendees — gathered to witness a mesmerizing celebration of Kashmiri folk traditions, music, and dance at the Open Air Theatre. The highlight of the evening was the Kashmir Musical Night, featuring a lineup of acclaimed Kashmiri artists and folk singers who transported the audience to the scenic valleys of AJK through their melodious performances. Among the performers were Altaf Mir, Ashiq Hussain Butt, Sohail Abbasi, Syed Dilawar Abbas, Nadir Khan, Hina Abbasi, Shakeel Ahmed Mir, Shahzeb Hussain, Sajjad Kashmiri, Natasha Khan, Raja Imran, Basit Sheikh, Noman Saleem, Babar Panjkoti, and Bano Rahmat. Accompanying them on traditional instruments were Anwar Ali (Keyboard), Muhammad Maroof (Tabla), Sunny Gill (Dholak), and Muhammad Badar Khan (Rubab) — whose rhythmic beats and soulful tunes added depth to the night’s musical aura. The performances beautifully reflected the cultural richness, linguistic diversity, and musical legacy of Kashmir — blending folk, pahari, sufiana, and gojri traditions into an unforgettable concert of unity and artistry. Audiences responded with heartfelt applause, celebrating Pakistan’s diversity under the theme of “Unity in Colors – Lok Virsa ka Sang.” Throughout the day, visitors enjoyed artisan stalls, traditional cuisines, puppet shows, and cultural pavilions showcasing the heritage of all provinces. The Kashmir Pavilion drew particular admiration for its intricate hand embroidery, wooden craftwork, and regional delicacies. Executive Director Dr. Muhammad Waqas Saleem expressed pride in the overwhelming participation, noting that “Lok Mela brings together Pakistan’s living heritage — reminding us that our cultural diversity is our greatest strength.” Lok Mela continues to welcome the public daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM at Lok Virsa until 16 November 2025.

Islamabad 14 November 2025(Kamran Raja): Lok Mela continued to captivate audiences on Day 8, drawing thousands visitors throughout the day, as the festival’s vibrant cultural showcase reached new heights of excitement and celebration.

The Government of Sindh, Culture Department, led by Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah, Minister for Culture, Tourism & Antiquities, presented a grand and colourful display at the Sindh Pavilion. Visitors were welcomed to experience traditional crafts, folk music, Ajrak printing, handicrafts, cultural dances, and the authentic cultural spirit of Sindh.

The pavilion remained one of the most visited attractions today, reflecting the rich cultural identity and artistic legacy of Sindh.

The highlight of Day 8 was the highly anticipated Sindh Cultural Music Night, held at Lok Virsa Open Air. The evening showcased the soul-stirring melodies of Folk and Sufi music, creating a mesmerizing experience for the massive audience gathered.

The star-studded lineup included Sanam Marvi – renowned Sufi and folk vocalist, delivering powerful devotional renditions that moved the audience. Saif Samejo – celebrated Sindhi folk-rock artist known for blending traditional music with contemporary style. Tufail Khan Sanjrani – bringing raw traditional rhythmic energy with classic folk performance. Asghar Khoso – captivating the crowd with soulful Sindhi folk singing.

Their performances created an unforgettable musical journey that highlighted the cultural depth, diversity, and rhythm of Sindh’s proud heritage.

The Sindh Cultural Music Night attracted thousands of festival-goers, adding to the already packed attendance at Lok Mela. Families, youth, artisans, and international visitors enjoyed the music, dance, food stalls, and handicrafts, turning the festival grounds into a colorful celebration of Pakistan’s cultural unity.

Lok Virsa Executive Director Dr. Muhammad Waqas Saleem praised the Sindh Culture Department for presenting an immersive and authentic cultural showcase. He acknowledged the efforts of artisans, performers, and organizers whose dedication continues to make Lok Mela one of the most successful editions in recent years.