Key Points
- Lok Mela 2025, a cultural festival, opened with vibrant folk performances, showcasing Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.
- The festival emphasises national unity, bringing together artisans, performers, and communities from all corners of Pakistan.
- Esteemed folk artist Bano Rahmat and a stone carver from Gilgit-Baltistan were honoured for their contributions to traditional crafts.
- The festival features a marketplace of traditional handicrafts, offering attendees the chance to purchase authentic items while learning about the nation’s artistic traditions.
ISLAMABAD: The Lok Virsa Open Air Theatre in the capital of Pakistan came alive on Friday with the rhythmic sounds of traditional folk music as Lok Mela 2025 was inaugurated. This eagerly awaited festival, organised by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) under the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture, marks the beginning of a ten-day cultural extravaganza.
The event serves as a showcase of Pakistan’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the country’s long-standing traditions and artistic expressions. It is a celebration not only of local crafts, music, and dance but also of the country’s dedication to preserving its cultural identity for future generations.
A Festival Rooted in National Unity
At the heart of Lok Mela 2025 lies a message of cultural harmony and national unity. Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, the chief guest at the inauguration, shared the government’s vision for the festival, saying, “This festival serves as a vibrant platform that connects all the federating units of Pakistan through cultural expression.” He highlighted the festival’s role in fostering national unity by bringing together artisans, folk performers, and communities from across the country.
Also Read: How Folk Festival Brings Craft, Culture, and Community to Life in Pakistan’s Capital
Khichi added that Lok Mela is not just a celebration of art and craftsmanship but also an important initiative for promoting national cohesion. “The festival not only honours Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage but also encourages our artisans and folk artists to continue practicing their traditional crafts, ensuring these treasures are preserved for future generations,” he said.
Honouring Craftsmanship and Folk Arts
The opening ceremony also saw the honouring of exceptional artisans and folk artists, a tradition that continues to strengthen the roots of Pakistan’s cultural identity. This year, Bano Rahmat, a renowned folk artist from Kashmir, and a master craftswoman in stone carving from Gilgit-Baltistan were presented with shawls and turbans as a mark of respect. These honours not only recognize individual achievements but also emphasise the importance of preserving Pakistan’s traditional craftsmanship.
Dr. Muhammad Waqas Saleem, Executive Director of Lok Virsa, expressed his gratitude and highlighted the significance of the festival in promoting Pakistan’s diverse folk traditions. “This event is a celebration of our nation’s craftsmanship, creativity, and culture,” he said, emphasising the role of Lok Virsa in bringing these art forms to the forefront of national and international attention.
A Showcase of Traditional Music, Dance, and Arts
The festival’s opening ceremony featured an array of performances by folk artists from across Pakistan. Traditional songs and dances representing the cultural diversity of the country filled the air, leaving the audience enthralled. Performances ranged from the rhythmic beats of Balochi drummers to the graceful dances of Punjab, each act reflecting the unique heritage of the regions they represented.
Throughout the festival, attendees can expect to explore an extensive exhibition of handicrafts, ranging from Kashmiri shawls and Peshawar carpets to Sindhi ajraks and Multani pottery. The market set up at Lok Virsa is a treasure trove of traditional arts and crafts, with artisans demonstrating their skills firsthand. Visitors have the chance to witness these time-honoured techniques in action and even purchase authentic items to take home.
Promoting Social Welfare and Cultural Preservation
The Lok Mela festival, beyond its role as a celebration of arts, also stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to social welfare and cultural preservation. The Federal Secretary for National Heritage and Culture, during his address, expressed his support for initiatives like Lok Mela that help counter extremism and foster social harmony through culture. “We will continue to support such initiatives that promote a healthy and inclusive environment for the people of Pakistan,” he said.
A Festival for Everyone
Running until November 16, 2025, Lok Mela offers something for everyone. The festival is open to the public with entry tickets priced at Rs. 200, and a discounted rate of Rs. 100 available for students, making it accessible to a wide audience. The festival’s diverse attractions, ranging from traditional performances to handicraft exhibitions, offer a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Pakistan’s folk culture.
Lok Mela 2025 is not only a cultural event but also a celebration of national identity and a powerful reminder of the rich heritage that unites Pakistan’s people. It is a platform where the arts and traditions of various provinces come together to reflect the beauty of Pakistan’s diverse cultural landscape.
With each passing year, Lok Mela grows in scale and significance, making it a must-attend event for anyone wishing to experience the heart and soul of Pakistan’s folk traditions.
