ISLAMABAD: The Asian Study Group (ASG) hosted its annual end-of-year programme at Serena Hotel with fabulous performances by Jimmy, the electrifying Dholwala, and Qawaal Babar Ali and his team.

For the 53rd year in Islamabad, the ASG committee members have arranged eclectic activities and programmes, ranging from book readings and lectures to hikes and cycling adventures and from exhibitions and film showings to introductions to different cuisines.

Parveen Malik, President of the ASG, thanked the Islamabad community for its continued support through the years. She said: “We close for the summer. But our enthusiastic sub-groups, literature, cycling, hikes, trips and the film club will continue with their programmes in June, July and August. We will officially open again in September.”

She added, “I would like to thank the Serena Islamabad for their constant support and encouragement through the years. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the ASG Committee – all volunteers – without their dedication we would not be celebrating today. Excellency Jane Marriott, it has truly been a privilege to have you as the Patron for the Asian Study Group and on behalf of the ASG Committee, I thank you truly for your generosity and patience.”

Jane Marriott, the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, said: “It is a real pleasure to welcome you all to this special end of year celebration, Colours of Pakistan, as the Patron of the Asian Study Group. To all of you who call this city home – thank you for joining us tonight to celebrate its richness, its warmth, and the shared community we have built together.”

She added: “Events like this do not happen by chance. They are the result of dedication, creativity and a great deal of quiet effort behind the scenes. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all those who have made this evening possible, including the wonderful Aziz Boolani and our partners at Serena Hotel for their generous collaboration.”

The evening was a fitting culmination of an outstanding year of programmes. Through music, conversation, heritage and culture, the Asian Study Group has brought people together, deepened understanding, and created space for connection.

Ms Marriott said, “From the vibrancy of the dhol to the soul of qawaali, and everything in between, we are celebrating the diversity and spirit that make Pakistan so special.”

The event featured a live performance by Jimmy, known for his high-energy performances, followed by acclaimed Qawaal Babar Ali and his group from Lahore, who have delivered powerful renditions of traditional qawaalis nationally and internationally to enthusiastic audiences.

Meher Naqvi said: “The ASG end-of-year Gala was very well organised by its President Parveen Malik. As always, the evening began with a general knowledge quiz about Pakistan and the region. Correct answers contributed to the knowledge of much of the audience and those who gave the correct answers received some very nice prizes. The dholwala with an unusual transparent drum with neon lights entertained the guests while dinner was served and soon after the qawaals began their enthralling numbers, from Nusrat Fateh Ali’s kalam and two inevitable numbers on Maula Ali.

She added: “The evening saw the guests and patron participating actively. Thank you ASG and the team, we look forward to another wonderful year.”

Greta Weber said: “As a visitor, it is fantastic to see so many diverse groups coming together to celebrate Pakistan’s amazingly rich culture!”

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2026