QUETTA: Balochistan National Party-M (BNP-M) chief Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal said here on Wednesday that the Baloch people were facing hardships but they still loved their culture and held on to their values.

Speaking at an event held at the Quetta Metropolitan Corporation to celebrate the Baloch Culture Day, he said the community had a rich culture and language. “This is why we want to promote our culture, language and heritage by celebrating Baloch Culture Day.”

Residents of Quetta, Dera Murad Jamali, Mastung, Khuzdar, Kalat, Kharan, Noshki, Sibi, Dalbandin, Hub, Gwadar, Turbat, Panjgur and other towns of the province wore traditional dresses and turbans while attending seminars and exhibitions organised to mark the day.

Students and families participated in programmes to express their interest and love for their culture and language. Many events had stalls with embroidered dresses, sandals and hangbags.

In Quetta, the National Party and BNP-Mengal held separate events to mark the occasion.

The ruling National Party held its event in the lawns of the Pakistan Medical Association’s hostel where folk singers and other artistes were invited to perform. Several provincial ministers and party leaders attended the event.

Despite heavy rain, a large number of people came out to participate in the shows.

Sardar Mengal and his party’s leaders were dressed in traditional clothes.“I am happy to see these emotions and spirit of the Baloch people today as they celebrate their culture,” he said, adding that observing the occasion was a proof that the Baloch stood untied and owned their traditions and values.Lawyers also celebrated the day at the sessions court.

Published in Dawn, March 3rd, 2016