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Express Tribune
11-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
A beginner's guide to surviving Karachi Literature Festival
As a first-time attendee at the Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) 2025, I braced myself for a day of intellectual stimulation, cultural immersion, and perhaps a few unexpected adventures. Little did I know that Sunday would offer all that and more, wrapped in the vibrant chaos that only Karachi can provide. The day began with an ambitious plan: attend the 11:00 a.m. session on "Media and Youth Mental Health: Role of Organisational Leadership" in Jasmine Hall. However, my morning enthusiasm was quickly dampened by the realisation that finding a decent cup of chai amidst a sea of literati is akin to locating a metaphor in a physics textbook. After a labyrinthine search through bustling bookstalls and animated discussions, I finally secured my caffeine fix, only to discover that the session had concluded. Lesson learned: at KLF, the early bird catches the panel discussion. Determined to make up for lost time, I headed to the Main Garden for the 12:00 p.m. talk, "Creating Resilience through Climate Change Education," featuring the esteemed Sherry Rehman. The discussion was as enlightening as it was urgent, underscoring the pivotal role of education in combating climate challenges. Feeling inspired, I decided to split my attention between two simultaneous sessions: "A Journey of Friendship and Political Activism" with Sherry Rehman and Victoria Schofield in Jasmine Hall, and the "Book Discussion: Three Tales from Gulistan-i-Saadi" in the same venue shortly after. In my naivety, I believed I could flit between sessions like a literary butterfly. Reality, however, had other plans. Navigating through throngs of bibliophiles, I arrived at the first session just as it was wrapping up and the second was commencing. Settling into a seat, I was soon engrossed in the rich narratives and scholarly discourse, momentarily forgetting my earlier misadventures. Between sessions, I found myself wandering toward what I thought was a space for young professionals—the Youth Pavilion. Expecting a vibrant discussion on literature, activism, or contemporary issues, I stepped inside only to find myself surrounded by excitable children, crayons in hand, deeply engrossed in storytelling and interactive workshops. It took me a moment to realise my mistake, but by then, a particularly enthusiastic volunteer had already invited me to participate. Politely excusing myself, I made a hasty retreat, my pride slightly bruised but my amusement fully intact. In an effort to reclaim my dignity, I ventured into the Art Gallery, a hidden gem tucked away from the main festival chaos. The gallery was a sanctuary of visual storytelling, showcasing works by emerging and established artists, each canvas speaking volumes about Karachi's cultural and socio-political landscape. Abstract interpretations of cityscapes, evocative portraits, and intricate calligraphy lined the walls, offering a refreshing contrast to the festival's literary focus. I lingered longer than expected, captivated by the seamless intersection of art and literature. As evening descended, the festival's energy crescendoed. The 6:00 p.m. slot presented a smorgasbord of options: "Emergence of Urdu Rap in Pakistan" in Jasmine Hall, a poetry session titled "شاعری کے رنگ جوانوں کے سنگ" in Aquarius Hall, and "From Chapters to Change: Literature and Environmental Justice" in Room 007. Torn between my burgeoning interest in Urdu rap and a lifelong love for poetry, I opted for the former, curious to see how contemporary music genres are shaping Pakistan's literary landscape. The session was a revelation, highlighting the fusion of traditional poetic forms with modern rhythms—a testament to the evolving narrative of Pakistani art. As the clock edged toward 7:15 p.m., the festival grounds buzzed with anticipation for the Closing Ceremony in the Main Garden. Keynote speeches by educationist Arfa Sayeda Zehra and journalist Mishal Husain promised profound insights into the cultural and educational paradigms of our time, followed by a soul-stirring Qawwali performance by Ustad Farid Ayaz and Ustad Abu Muhammad. Unfortunately, reality intervened—I glanced at the time, realising that staying any longer would mean a long, uncertain commute home. With a heavy heart and a lingering sense of FOMO, I made the reluctant decision to leave just as the final session was about to begin. As I walked away, the distant echoes of harmoniums and applause followed me, a reminder that sometimes, even the best-laid festival plans demand a bittersweet farewell. As I left the festival grounds, my tote bag heavier and my notepad fuller, I couldn't help but chuckle at the day's misadventures. From missing sessions in search of coffee to mistakenly joining a children's workshop and unexpectedly losing myself in an art gallery, my first KLF experience was an unforgettable tapestry of knowledge, culture, and community. Note to future self: arrive early, plan wisely, and always—always—carry a thermos of coffee. Until next year, KLF. This rookie will be back, wiser and ready for more literary escapades.
Express Tribune
08-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
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."
