LAHORE: A non-government organisation, in collaboration with the Punjab Institute of Language, Art and Culture (Pilac), held a cultural awards ceremony at the institute on Monday.

The function started with a delay of about an hour. However, the hall was jam-packed. The NGO, Ehsas for Life, gave cultural awards to different event organisers who frequently hold cultural events and shows on a commercial basis. The big part of the evening was dedicated to dance, music and fashion.

Waseem Hassan, one of the organisers, told this reporter that Ehsas for Life worked for eradication of drugs and promotion of culture.

“Our mission is peace and healthy youth culture,” said Mr Hassan.

The evening unfolded with music performances. Almost all the singers were upcoming and amateur. The first singer was Arshad Prince Chishti who sang a Punjabi song, Kuri Multan Di, followed by Hina Malik who sang a folk song. Kalb-i-Abbas, another singer, sang a Punjabi rap number. The most electrifying performance of the show was dance by Shahid and Arooj and they were appreciated by the audience. Mehrban, a film actress and model, also danced to a Punjabi folk.

Speaking on the occasion, speakers hailed the efforts of both Pilac and Ehsas for Life for their efforts to promote folk and contemporary music. The logo of showbiz cricket league formed recently was also launched on the occasion.

A fashion show was also held in which models wore prêt-a-porter dresses. It featured upcoming models.

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2017