Latest news with #AlhamraArtsCouncil
Time Business News
22-04-2025
- Time Business News
Pakistan's Cultural Heritage: Lahore and Karachi
Pakistan is a country steeped in history, where every corner tells a story of resilience, tradition, and progress. Two of its most iconic cities, Lahore and Karachi, stand out for their cultural and historical significance. These bustling metropolises serve as economic powerhouses and are living embodiments of Pakistan's diverse heritage . Lahore, often referred to as the 'Cultural Capital of Pakistan,' has preserved the legacy of its rich Mughal past while nurturing literature, arts, and culinary delights. Karachi, known as the 'City of Lights,' is a melting pot of cultures and a financial hub and reflects modern Pakistani resilience. Together, these cities form the dual heartbeat of the nation, each contributing uniquely to its identity. If you're a culture enthusiast, history buff, or travel lover, join us on this vibrant exploration of Lahore and Karachi. Lahore's deep historical roots trace back to the Mughal Empire, where the city flourished as a hub for art, architecture, and culture. This grandeur is still evident in its majestic landmarks, which were built to showcase Mughal splendour. During the pre-independence era, Lahore emerged as a centre for intellectual discussion, political movements, and the eventual push for Pakistan's independence. The Lahore Resolution passed in 1940 at Minto Park (now Iqbal Park) paved the way for the creation of Pakistan. Even today, Lahore pulsates with a dynamic energy shaped by its historical legacy. No visit to Lahore is complete without exploring its architectural masterpieces: Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens: Both UNESCO World Heritage Sites reflect the ingenuity and grandeur of Mughal architecture. Both UNESCO World Heritage Sites reflect the ingenuity and grandeur of Mughal architecture. Badshahi Mosque: This 17th-century mosque epitomizes Mughal artistic brilliance, exuding spiritual reverence. This 17th-century mosque epitomizes Mughal artistic brilliance, exuding spiritual reverence. Minar-e-Pakistan: Symbolizing independence, this iconic structure stands tall, marking where the Lahore Resolution was passed. These landmarks offer a glimpse into Lahore's glorious past and remind visitors of its role in shaping Pakistan's identity. Lahore has always been a cradle of art and literature. The annual Lahore Literary Festival showcases international and local literary works, fostering a celebration of ideas and storytelling. The Alhamra Arts Council, known for promoting performing arts, hosts plays, musical performances, and art exhibitions. Lahore also takes pride in being home to legendary poets like Allama Iqbal, whose work inspires generations. Lahore is a paradise for food lovers. Its iconic food streets, including Gawalmandi and Anarkali Bazaar, are bursting with Punjabi flavours. Must-try dishes include: Nihari: A slow-cooked stew rich in spices. A slow-cooked stew rich in spices. Paaye: A traditional dish made with goat or beef trotters. A traditional dish made with goat or beef trotters. Lahori Chargha: A marinated and deep-fried chicken delicacy. Lahore's food embodies its lively culture, inviting locals and visitors to indulge in its flavours. Festivals in Lahore are vibrant and colourful. Historically, the Basant Festival marked the onset of spring with kite flying, filling the skies with hues of yellow and green. While the festival is no longer commonly celebrated due to safety concerns, it remains a cherished memory for many. Festive Eid celebrations light up the city's streets, connecting deeply to its cultural roots. Once a small fishing village, Karachi transformed into a bustling port city during British rule and became the financial capital of Pakistan. Post-independence, Karachi became Pakistan's first capital and the centre of its economic activities. Home to the Karachi Stock Exchange, myriad industries, and bustling ports, the city is vital in driving Pakistan's economy. Karachi boasts its own set of historical and modern landmarks, including: Quaid-e-Azam's Mausoleum: A majestic white marble structure honouring Pakistan's founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. A majestic white marble structure honouring Pakistan's founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Clifton Beach: Offering an escape to Karachi's vibrant coastline, it's one of the most visited spots for families and travellers alike. Offering an escape to Karachi's vibrant coastline, it's one of the most visited spots for families and travellers alike. Mohatta Palace: Built in the 1920s, this Indo-Saracenic structure now showcases mesmerizing artworks and historical artefacts. Karachi's unique identity stems from its incredible diversity. It's a city where Sindhi, Balochi, Pashtun, and Muhajir communities coexist, creating a harmonious blend of traditions, languages, and cuisines. This diversity of culture gives Karachi a dynamic and inviting spirit. From contemporary art galleries like T2F to energetic theatre productions, Karachi is always brimming with creativity. The city is also the hub for Pakistan's music scene, nurturing genres from pop to soulful Sufi music. Karachi's culinary treasures reflect its multicultural identity. Some must-try delights include: Biryani: A spicy, flavorful rice dish that Karachi has perfected. A spicy, flavorful rice dish that Karachi has perfected. Karachi Halwa: A traditional sweet treat with a hint of nostalgia. A traditional sweet treat with a hint of nostalgia. Street Food: Whether it's Bun Kebabs or Spicy Chaat, Karachi's street food scene has something for everyone. The city celebrates creativity through events like the Karachi Literature Festival, which attracts global literary figures. Major fashion shows also find their stage in Karachi, showcasing the country's rising talent in fashion design. Meanwhile, the sea festivals celebrate Karachi's coastal charm, bringing together locals and tourists. Lahore and Karachi contribute to Pakistan's resilience, showcasing their cities as history, culture, and innovation centres. Their roles in politics, education, and the arts have helped shape Pakistan's modern narrative. Lahore's timeless charm and Karachi's modern high-rises illustrate how tradition and progress coexist harmoniously. Internationally recognized as cultural treasures, Lahore and Karachi attract tourists seeking a vibrant mix of history, culture, and hospitality. Preserving Lahore's Mughal-era monuments and Karachi's colonial architecture is essential. Despite challenges such as urbanization and lack of awareness, efforts by local authorities and initiatives by cultural organizations continue to protect these invaluable assets. With better promotion, festivals in both cities have the potential to attract global audiences, presenting immense opportunities for cultural tourism. Lahore and Karachi represent the soul of Pakistan's cultural heritage. From their stunning architecture and rich history to their culinary delights and festivities, these cities offer something for every traveller, historian, and culture enthusiast. Discover their allure and experience two cities that embody Pakistan's heart and spirit. Whether strolling through Lahore's Mughal gardens or exploring Karachi's vibrant streets, a world of culture awaits you. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Express Tribune
20-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
CM Maryam forms committee to fund film production
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has established an eight-member committee that will assist the government to finance producers for the production of quality films. The CM also approved proposals for the construction of Punjab's first film city, a studio and a post-production lab. To revive the industry in the province, she also gave permission to build a public sector film school to produce graduates in the field. The move comes amidst efforts to revive cultural activities in the province as the government organised the traditional celebration of Mela Chiraghan (light festival) earlier this month after a gap of many years ago. A Punjabi culture festival was also organised at Alhamra Arts Council. The government has also introduced policies and restrictions regarding stage performances. According to a spokesperson for the information and culture department, the decision to revive the local film industry has been taken because it had been suffering due to various issues for the past many years. The committee that includes senior government officers will prepare a policy to provide financial assistance to local producers. Provincial Senior Minster Mariyyum Aurangzeb is the convener of the committee that has also been given the task of building the film city, a state of the art studio and post-production lab with modern equipment. The spokesperson said land had been specified for the construction of the film city in the Nawaz Sharif Information Technology City. Work is under way to finalise the design of the film city and other related details. The committee was formed after the approval of the Punjab cabinet and funds are set to be allocation in the coming annual budget to promote the film industry, then spokesman added. A former chairman of Pakistan Film Distributors Association, Ejaz Kamran, said while commenting on the decision that producers were not working on film projects in Punjab mainly because of lack of support from the governments. He said the film associations also were unable to play any role in the prevailing situation.
Express Tribune
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
CM asks aides to prepare artistes welfare scheme
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz views a painting after inaugurating an exhibition in Ustad Allah Bakhsh Art Gallery. The show has been organised as part of the Punjab Culture Day celebration. photo: express Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has ordered the preparation of a programme for the welfare of artistes in the province. Addressing the Punjab Culture Day ceremony at Alhamra Arts Council, she said, "I want to do something special for the well-being of artistes of Punjab so as to set an example." She asked Provincial Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and Information Minister Azma Zahid Bokhari to chalk out a programme for the welfare of the artistes. The chief minister said, "Everyone should be proud of speaking and being called Punjabi. I have immense love for the soil, people, music, traditions and culture of Punjab." She added, "I love Pakistan as I am a patriotic Pakistani. During my exile, I used to cry remembering the fragrance of Punjab's soil in the rain. The youth must learn English, but they should speak the Punjabi language with pride. Punjab and Punjabi are our identity, we cannot forget it." She said, "After many decades, a series of fairs has resumed in Punjab. The Horse and Cattle Show resumed after 30 years and the people enjoyed it for two weeks. Mela Chiraghan was revived after many years."
Express Tribune
17-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Over 20 sessions cover diverse issues at Faiz Festival
LAHORE: The three-day Faiz Festival concluded at Alhamra Arts Council on Sunday after drawing a large number of literary enthusiasts, intellectuals and art lovers. The festival dedicated to the legendary poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz featured a series of academic, literary and cultural sessions. More than 20 sessions were organised on the final day, covering a diverse range of topics related to literature, politics, society, film, history, culture and media influence. Panel discussions focused on figures like writer Saadat Hasan Manto, as well as issues such as Palestine, secularism, women's rights, the environment, heritage, tourism and the evolving relationship between social media and politics. The craft of film writing was also explored.
