KLF opens with cultural discourse
KARACHI:
The Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) 2025 themed Narratives of the Soil opened today with a vibrant inauguration ceremony, marking the beginning of a weekend dedicated to literary excellence, thought-provoking discussions, and cultural enrichment.
Book lovers, literati and people from all walks of life enjoyed the cool breeze on the Beach Luxury Hotel's lawns browsing through the stalls of publishers offering books on lucrative discounts.
Organized by Oxford University Press Pakistan (OUPP), this 3-day Festival is proudly supported by the Government of Sindh as the title sponsor, with Habib Bank Limited and Getz Pharma as Platinum and Gold Sponsors, respectively.
Saeed Ghani, Local Government Minister, addressed the audience, highlighting the value of culture in social development, "Sindh has one of the most iconic historic legacies in the world, and it is but our mutual responsibility to enable this land to be visible globally for its magnificent legacy and literary richness."
In his welcome speech, Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director, OUP Pakistan, said, "Oxford University Press Pakistan continues its drive for not just promoting the beautiful culture of reading and discussions, but bringing to light the power packed 'Narratives from the Soil' to truly distinguish the enriching legacies that geographies have to share."
Bringing together renowned writers, scholars, and literary enthusiasts from across Pakistan and beyond, KLF 2025 reaffirms its status as a premier event in the country's cultural and intellectual landscape.
Distinguished guests, including HE Nicolas Galey, Ambassador of France; Scott Urbom, Consul General United States Consulate; Alexis Chahtahtinsky, Counsel General France; and Martin Dawson, Deputy Head of Mission, British Deputy High Commission; shared their remarks, emphasizing the significance of literary initiatives.
The keynote speech, delivered by FS Aijazuddin and Asghar Nadeem Syed, set the tone for the festival, celebrating the power of literature in shaping societies.
Scott Urbom, Consul General United States Consulate, remarked, "I am proud to say that the U.S. Consulate General has supported this festival from day one, and we are honored to partner again. This partnership aligns with our shared values of a safer, more prosperous, more secure future, where the free exchange of ideas is celebrated."
Ali Habib, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, HBL, shared his organisation's pride in being a partner in an event that is now legacy-worthy, "We hope to see the power of word truly translate into a happier tomorrow for all concerned."
Art-historian and author FS Aijazuddin OBE spoke on the essential message that soil reserves for its children, "It is but imperative to hear the stories for the truest transformation. Pakistan's history and narratives are so powerful, and I am happy to see them flowing on such a worthy platform."
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