KARACHI, June 26: The organizers of Koocha-i-Saqafat revived the long-forgotten poetic genre of “Char bait” on Sunday. In some Pathan states of the subcontinent, such as Rampur, Bhopal, Tonk and Jaora, ‘Char bait’ contests were held in the past in which at least two groups recited four-line stanzas to the tune of ‘duf’ (tambourine).

The chairman of the Arts Council’s Koocha-i-Saqafat committee, Saifur Rahman Grami, told Dawn that he had found a group well versed in ‘char bait’ with great difficulty.

“This group has come from Landhi. I am on the lookout for more people good at this art. We will request them to come here and perform in front of what has been a very receptive audience,” he said.

He added that theatre performances and Mushaira had become regular features of Koocha-i-Saqafat.

Meanwhile, art lovers and bibliophiles had a great time at ‘Koocha-i-Saqafat’ organized by the Arts Council of Pakistan in collaboration with the Sindh government on M.R. Kayani Road.

The road on which Koocha-i-Saqafat was held was divided into three parts. Those who came from the Arts Council roundabout first entered the art centre where paintings, specimen of calligraphy and sculptures were on display. The second section of Koocha-i-Saqafat comprised a book bazaar where a few booksellers offered huge discounts -– up to 33 per cent -– on sale of new books.

Second-hand books were also available. Furniture-makers and artisans sold their wares at the third section of Koocha-i-Saqafat. Foodstuffs were also on sale.

Mr Grami said the Koocha-i-Saqafat committee of the Arts Council was also planning to revive the practice of art auction. He added paintings made by artists here would be auctioned.

He said art auctions were held at cultural precincts all over the world. He hoped that the idea would find favour with those visited Koocha-i-Saqafat every Sunday.