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LAHORE, Dec 01 (APP): The three-day Alhamra Sufi Festival concluded with remarkable splendour, leaving the city immersed in the timeless message of love, unity, and spiritual
reflection.
Lahore, home to the enduring legacy of great Sufi saints, witnessed an extraordinary
cultural experience as Alhamra emerged as a radiant centre of devotion, intellectual
engagement, and artistic excellence.
The final day drew an overwhelming number of visitors who filled Alhamra’s gardens,
halls, and open-air spaces from early evening until late at night. Families, youth, writers,
students, and cultural enthusiasts moved through softly lit lawns, explored vibrant book
stalls, and embraced the serene charm of Lahore’s winter nights. Across the event’s
three days, Alhamra recorded unprecedented footfall, cementing the festival as one
of the city’s most celebrated cultural successes in recent years.
A major highlight of the concluding day was the thought-provoking session “The Social
Influence of Sufism and Its Relevance Today.” Featuring distinguished speakers Dr Moin
Nizami, Dr Tariq Sharif Zada, Dr Waqar Yousuf Azeemi, Sahibzada Muhammad Asim
Maharvi, and Dr Fahad Ali Kazmi, and moderated by Dr Fatima Fayyaz, the session
offered profound insights on Sufism’s enduring role in cultivating compassion, harmony,
and social well-being. Many participants described it as one of the most impactful
intellectual dialogues held at Alhamra.
The Hall 2 resonated with spiritual energy during a captivating Sufi raqs performance,
where the dancers’ graceful whirling movements created a meditative rhythm that
deeply moved the audience.
Later, Alhamra Hall 1 hosted a spectacular evening of Qawwali headlined by renowned
qawwal Sher Miandad, whose powerful renditions filled the hall with devotion as thousands
joined in chorus. In Hall 2, Riyaz Ali Qadri and Ghulam Ali Qadri enthralled the audience
with dynamic performances that drew applause, cheers, and standing ovations.
Alhamra Executive Director Mahboob Alam, reflecting on the festival’s success, said
the overwhelming public participation reflects society’s deep yearning for peace, love,
and spiritual enrichment. He noted that Alhamra has fulfilled a vital cultural responsibility
by bringing Sufi heritage to the forefront at a time when such platforms are greatly needed.
He praised the meaningful discussions, captivating music sessions, and the unforgettable
environment of collective joy that defined the festival.
For three memorable days, the Alhamra Sufi Festival brought together people from all walks
of life through art, music, poetry, and dialogue. The event reached audiences across the
globe through digital platforms, where thousands tuned in to live-streamed sessions and
Qawwali performances.