ISLAMABAD: The rich array of cultural traditions at shrines and festivals in Pakistan were rediscovered in a multimedia presentation organised by the Asian Study Group.

The group’s patron, Australian High Commissioner Dr Geoffrey Shaw introduced guest presenter Dr Fouzia Saeed, who showcased her documentary on births, deaths, weddings and other rituals practiced at shrines.

The documentary showed how every region boasts its own rituals and folklore inspired by a distinct combination of myth, legend and ballads and expressed through music and dance.

Dr Saeed spoke about the diversity represented in traditional songs in more than 70 languages. She added that folk dances are representative of each area, but are usually participatory and performed spontaneously at social gatherings such as celebrations and festivals.

Her presentation began with visuals of a bull race specific to central Punjab. This was followed by visuals of dances and music at the birth of a child in the region, and the rituals around the event.

Dr Saeed also included a video of a Hindu wedding near Mirpur Khas, highlighting the instruments played there, such as an indigenous single string instrument. She also mentioned that weddings in the Sheedi communityinclude a ritual of throwing rice.

In a separate category were music and dance as a part of shrine culture, around the tombs of Sufi saints who propagated love, tolerance and peace. Visuals of death anniversaries were accompanied by music and dances that highlighted spirituality.

Dr Saeed explained that there are also various cultural and religious festivals celebrated in different regions, such as Basant, Nouroz, Holi and Besakhi. She also included visuals of the Kalash community dancing and singing at the Chilam Joshi festival.

The documentary also highlighted the participation of women in most folk and traditional festivals and celebrations.

Published in Dawn, October 4th, 2019