A NUMBER of prominent local and foreign writers, poets, journalists and intellectuals are due to appear at the Karachi Literature Festival which begins today. In its third year, the annual event is becoming a celebrated feature on the metropolis's limited cultural calendar. Though literary festivals are regularly held in cities across the world, due to Pakistan's particular situation holding such events in this country is a considerable challenge. Discussions on geopolitical and social issues are planned, while films will also be screened. Musical performances are also scheduled in keeping with the festival's broader theme of celebrating the arts.

Foreign participation, including names such as William Dalrymple, Vikram Seth and Hanif Kureishi among others, is indeed welcome, especially considering the fact that foreigners feel hesitant about visiting Pakistan due mainly to the volatile security situation. The participation of foreign guests allows Pakistanis to comprehent what the world is thinking and, perhaps more importantly, it gives the world an opportunity to listen to what Pakistanis have to say, other than the usual narrative of violence, intolerance and instability. Also, cultural events such as these are essential for a society's evolution and growth, where different voices can be heard and issues debated. Such events can also serve as catharsis for a scarred society like ours. Most of the authors featured write in English, though a number of sessions are dedicated to Urdu literature and writing in Pakistan's regional languages. While English has indeed become the world's language, it is important that such festivals support writers who express themselves in Urdu and other Pakistani languages. All in all a welcome addition to the national cultural scene, it is hoped that the literature festival and other events that celebrate the arts, the intellect, learning and the human spirit become regular features in Karachi as well as other cities of Pakistan.