LAHORE: The Punjab Council of the Arts (PUCAR) is set to organise a grand two-day Sufi Festival at the Sahiwal Arts Council (SAC) on June 12 and 13, aimed at promoting the rich Sufi heritage, cultural diversity, peace, tolerance, and human values among the public.

The festival will bring together renowned artistes, scholars, writers, performers and cultural enthusiasts from across the province.

One of the major attractions of the festival will be the acclaimed stage play “Bullah” to be staged by Ajoka Theatre, portraying the life, philosophy, and message of the great Sufi poet Bulleh Shah. The performance is aimed to highlight themes of love, humanity, and social harmony.

The festival will also feature a special scholarly session titled “Baba Farid’s Message for Peace and Humanity,” where eminent scholars and intellectuals will discuss the timeless teachings of Hazrat Baba Farid and their relevance in contemporary society.

A calligraphy exhibition showcasing Sufi poetry and Islamic art will also be arranged for visitors, where art lovers will have the opportunity to witness the creative works of talented calligraphers from the region.

The musical segment of the festival will include Sufi music performances and a special Qawwali programme titled “Rang-e-Fareed,”,celebrating the spiritual legacy of Baba Farid through soulful renditions and traditional devotional music.

About the event, PUCAR Executive Director Mahboob Alam says the Sufi Festival reflects the council’s commitment to preserving and promoting Punjab’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Alam says the Sufi Festival will serve as a platform to introduce the younger generation to the teachings and philosophy of great Sufi saints, whose messages of love, compassion, tolerance, and mutual respect remain highly relevant in today’s world.

He expressed hope that the festival would strengthen cultural awareness, promote social harmony, and encourage greater appreciation of Punjab’s rich spiritual traditions.

In addition, a series of literary sessions on Sufi thought and literature will be held, bringing together writers, poets, researchers, and literary figures to explore the enduring influence of Sufism on culture, literature, and society.

PUCAR spokesperson Mr Sher Baz says the festival has been designed to engage people of all ages through a diverse range of cultural, literary, and artistic activities. He added that such events provide an excellent platform for artists, scholars, and the public to celebrate the rich traditions of Punjab and reconnect with the universal message of the Sufi saints.

Published in Dawn, June 8th, 2026