AS the torpor of winter subsides, few ways revitalise us better than art, culture and books. The literary festival season has arrived as have some of the finest scholars, researchers and writers. The Karachi Literature Festival returns with its 17th edition; ‘Literature in a Fragile World’ is the theme. Over 200 delegates from eight countries are expected, and the event is set to present an assortment of panel discussions on a wide range of topics as well as 28 book launches in three languages. The KLF coincides with the 14th edition of the Lahore Literary Festival. The latter presents 60 sessions; 12 special sessions will showcase Urdu, Punjabi and other regional literature. Popular Canadian filmmaker, Deep Mehta, celebrated for her elements trilogy — Fire, Earth and Water — is likely to attract a large audience. The clash of dates is unfortunate and should have been avoided.

In Pakistan’s current social scenario, these festivals provide space for uncensored, tolerant discourse to people from all walks of life. Ordinary citizens and readers have the rare chance to hobnob with not only global names of the literary world but also our policymakers. They can communicate with them, hear them out and have their books signed by them. These interactions kindle an interest in both the written word and diverse views, which benefits the publishing industry and booksellers. Sadly, a criticism that has long been directed at the organisers is that these occasions are digressing from inculcating a love for books, history, heritage, sports, and the humanities, and turning into platforms for politics. They would do well to return to promoting younger voices and fresh ideas along with framing new narratives. One way to counter old modes of dialogue is younger festival boards comprising members from varying backgrounds, alongside an expansion into other cities. Only then will the choice of subjects and speakers serve the right purpose.

Published in Dawn, February 7th, 2026