PESHAWAR: The three-day annual Hunar Mela concluded here on Sunday in Nishtar Hall with a powerful theatrical performance that struck a deep chord for national unity and social cohesion, leaving thousands of spectators moved and inspired.

Organised under the auspices of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority, the cultural extravaganza celebrated the province’s rich artistic heritage while championing the message of unity in diversity.

Thousands of visitors, including families, students, domestic tourists and foreign guests, thronged Nishtar Hall over the three days. Foreign tourists, particularly from Russia and Italy, expressed great admiration for local handicrafts and traditional cuisines.

The director of Culture and Tourism Authority, Halima Iqbal, welcomed international visitors and presented them with souvenirs. A Russian tourist, visited the venue, praised the legendary hospitality of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the magnetic appeal of its vibrant culture.

Chiara and Olga, who were leading a group of foreign tourists, told this scribe that the event exceeded their expectations. “We are truly amazed by the warmth of people and the incredible diversity of Pakistan’s cultures showcased here,” they added.

The grand finale was the staging of an emotionally charged theatre play “Shehrag” written by Ishrat Abbas and directed by Shehzad Khalil. Performed by Khalil Khan Academy of Arts, the play brought together a distinguished cast including Shazma Haleem, Yaseen Abbas, Javed Babar, Khaista Rehman, Zulfiqar Qureshi, Ismail and other accomplished artists.

Through compelling storytelling, folk rhythms and evocative dialogues, the play highlighted the shared dreams, struggle and aspirations of people across Pakistan. Performers representing Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, Pakhtun, Kashmiri, Seraiki and other communities graced the stage in their traditional attires, weaving a vibrant narrative of brotherhood and harmony among the four provinces.

Artists Syed Rehman Shino, Khalida Yasmin and their colleagues further delighted the audience with lively comedy sketches that blended humour with poignant social messaging.

Hunar Mela featured several beautifully decorated stalls displaying exquisite traditional crafts such as wax painting by Riaz Ahmed, Hazara Phulkari, intricate handicrafts, famous Charsadda chappal, women artisans’ creations and stalls by prison department.

Visitors also enjoyed an authentic culinary journey with signature dishes including Chapli Kabab, Bannu Painda, Charsadda rice, refreshing sugarcane and gur drinks, Dahi Bhalle and ice cream.

Adding colour and depth to the festival were children’s play area, traditional hujra, Kalash pavilion, photographic exhibition of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa tourist destinations, documentary screenings and a tourist information desk.

As the curtains fell on Hunar Mela, the event stood as a shining testament to the power of art and culture in fostering national harmony.

Rukhsana Azeem, a visitor from Lahore, said that in a society often tested by divisions, the event reaffirmed that Pakistan’s true strength lied in its magnificent cultural diversity and the enduring spirit of unity.

Published in Dawn, May 18th, 2026