KEY POINTS
- Renowned Bangladeshi singer Shireen Jawad’s soulful performance captivated the audience.
- The festival continues to showcase global and local artistic diversity.
KARACHI, Pakistan: The return of Bangladeshi artists to Pakistan after 18 years has become the highlight of the World Culture Festival at the Arts Council.
Their performances and art mark a poignant chapter in cultural reconciliation between the two nations. This long-awaited reunion underscores the power of art to heal divides and foster unity.
The World Culture Festival is currently underway at the Arts Council of Pakistan in Karachi, drawing artists from over 140 countries to showcase their rich cultural traditions.
However, it is the return of Bangladeshi artists to Pakistan after 18 years that has captured the most attention, marking a significant step forward in cultural exchange between the two neighbouring countries.
This cultural reunion was highlighted by the soulful performance of renowned Bangladeshi singer Shireen Jawad, who captivated the audience with her voice.
Her performance was a blend of Bengali music, including tracks from her album Punjabi Wala, such as Soulful and Spiritual and Mathawali, a romantic ballad.
For Jawad, this is her first-ever visit to Pakistan, and she expressed that the warmth of the people here made her feel right at home. “When I landed at the airport, it felt like I was in my own country,” she shared.
“The people here are incredibly warm, kind, and helpful. Meeting artists from different nations and sharing cultures and experiences has been a memorable journey.”
The long-awaited return of Bangladeshi artists has been a symbol of cultural reconciliation and unity. Jawad reflected on the significance of the moment, saying, “I do wonder why it took 18 years, but what matters is that it’s happening now. Art has brought Pakistan and Bangladesh together on one platform again, and that is powerful.”
Alongside Jawad, visual artist Neharika Mumtaz also made her mark at the festival. A highlight of her display was her series of works celebrating Bangladeshi heritage, femininity, and traditional motifs, further underlining the diversity of artistic expression.
“This festival allows us to present Bangladesh’s creative diversity to the Pakistani audience,” Neharika said. “We have always believed in cultural exchange.”
The festival’s organisers confirmed that more Bangladeshi artists, including Suborna Morsheda, Faria Chowdhury, Shambhu Acharya, and Bubly Barna, will perform in the coming days, representing music, dance, and visual arts.
For many attendees, the festival has become a powerful reminder of the role of art in creating dialogue, softening divides, and fostering unity.
In recent months, Pakistani designers have also showcased their work in Dhaka, signalling that the cultural bridge between the two countries is now flourishing from both sides.
The festival in Karachi continues to mesmerize audiences, offering a rich blend of global and local artistry. From the captivating melodies of opera to the vibrant energy of local performances, the event has been a celebration of artistic expression, showcasing the unifying power of creativity.
“Each act here echoes the shared humanity that connects people across borders,” said Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council, while speaking to a local news channel.
“The event stands as a testament to the ability of art to bridge gaps, inspire understanding, and foster unity in a world enriched by diversity.”
The festival also gave a spotlight to Pakistan’s own theatrical scene, with the riveting play Flirts captivating the audience with its sharp wit and compelling storyline.
The diverse array of performances, from music to theatre, underscored the global nature of the event, bringing artists together from all corners of the world.
Shah further emphasised the role of the Arts Council in promoting cultural diversity and fostering international connections through art, noting that such events do more than entertain—they educate and inspire, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the diversity that shapes the world.
“This festival is more than just a celebration of art; it’s a reminder that through creativity, we can bridge divides and bring people together,” he concluded.
