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ISLAMABAD, Nov 06 (APP): The heart of Islamabad is once again poised to celebrate the richness of Pakistani culture as Lok Mela 2025 will kick off on November 07 (Friday).
This year’s festival, continuing till November 16, holds special significance as it marks the Golden Jubilee, 50 years of the establishment of Lok Virsa, a proud milestone in Pakistan’s cultural history.
The 10-day cultural extravaganza, organized by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) under the National Heritage and Culture Division, promises a captivating journey through the diverse traditions, crafts, music, and cuisines that define the cultural mosaic of Pakistan.
Artisans, performers, and cultural aficionados from across the country will converge in the federal capital to celebrate Pakistan’s vibrant heritage.
Displaying a vibrant tapestry of regional artistry, the stalls and pavilions at Lok Mela will feature all provinces of Pakistan including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The festival will also present live folk music, traditional dance performances, handicraft demonstrations, and culinary stalls offering a variety of traditional foods.
The theme of Lok Mela 2025 is “Yakjehti k Rang, Lok Virsa k Sang,” which aims to promote national cohesion and cultural appreciation.
This year’s edition will also include revived traditional attractions, such as Folk Theatre and Putli Tamasha (puppet show), alongside performances by renowned artists, including Sufi and folk musicians.
Visitors will have the chance to enjoy traditional Balochi Sajji, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s special tea, and a host of unique handicraft items, while also learning about indigenous crafts like pottery, leatherwork, and stone carving.
The festival will host an international pavilion featuring delegates from 12 countries.
Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, has congratulated Lok Virsa on its 50-year journey and said, “Lok Virsa has played a vital role in preserving Pakistan’s cultural identity. The Golden Jubilee edition of Lok Mela is not only a tribute to our rich heritage but also a symbol of unity”.
“Cultural platforms like this foster peace, harmony, and a sense of belonging among our people. I urge everyone, especially the youth, to participate in this celebration of our shared heritage and strengthen the bonds that unite us as a nation”, the minister stated.