ISLAMABAD: Though there are several other activities for families at the ongoing Saqafati Mela (cultural festival) organised by Lok Virsa, exhibition of artisans-at-work was a major attraction for the visitors on Saturday.

More than fifty craftspeople were seen actively demonstrating their work in artistically designed cultural pavilions, putting their creativity in arts, crafts and innovation. They were mesmerising the visitors with their unique artisanship.

A contingent of about 100 master artisans, folk artists, rural musicians and dance groups were participating in the Mela, bringing with them their creativity in arts and crafts.

The main focus of the festival was on provincial harmony and national integration highlighting contribution of people from diverse communities in building future of Pakistan.

According to organisers, the Saqafati Mela was a unique opportunity to experience the colours and warmth of diverse cultures from all over Pakistan. Provincial food courts, folk music, theater, display of art and crafts as well as traditional heritage from every corner of Pakistan were part of the festival to celebrate the dynamic creativity of Pakistan’s traditional craftsmanship and promote rural folk artisans at the national level without involvement of middleman.

Daily attractions during the festival included, exhibition of artisans-at-work, exhibition of folk paintings, cultural exhibition by Mew community, folk dance performances, performances by traditional drummers (dholis), craft bazaar, folk cuisine, puppet show, and children play area besides various other activities arranged to draw crowds to the festival grounds.

The federal secretary for National Heritage and Culture Division Farina Mazhar welcomed all guests to the festival on warm June day that the festival was arranged in a short time and bringing together all the skilled craftsmen, artisans and artists on one platform.

It was indeed a difficult task which the Lok Virsa team performed well, for which they needed to be congratulated.

“The National Heritage and Culture Division is endeavouring to strengthen the public service projects and programs of the folk heritage and all other cultural institutions under their own goals and objectives to promote the overall cultural values of Pakistan not only domestically but also internationally,” the senior official said.

The Saqafati Mela will continue till June 19.

Published in Dawn, June 18th, 2023