By Rafiq Vayani
DUBAI/KARACHI: The second day of the 39-day World Culture Festival 2025 began with an art exhibition titled “Peace & Pieces – Volume 1” held at the Ahmed Pervez Art Gallery. The exhibition was inaugurated by Chief Secretary Sindh Syed Asif Haider Shah, along with President Arts Council Muhammad Ahmed Shah, Ambassador of Nepal Rita Dhital, and Ambassador of Argentina Leopoldo Francisco Sahores.
The exhibition showcased artworks from Argentina, Bangladesh, and Comoros, reflecting diverse cultural expressions and creative perspectives.
Speaking at the opening, Chief Secretary Sindh Syed Asif Haider Shah said, “Media is taking our message to the entire world. This is a major festival for us. Art is a universal language that transcends color, religion, and borders. Today, I see artists and people from various nations gathered together. I feel honored to be a member of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi.”
President Arts Council Muhammad Ahmed Shah stated, “Behind such a grand festival lies pure passion. Last time we had participation from 44 countries, and this time artists are joining from across Europe, Asia, and the America. Artists have no borders; they spread the message of peace through their work. This is our first large-scale international art exhibition, and we are grateful for the full support of the Sindh Government. Syed Asif Haider Shah has been with us since his time as Commissioner; he is a true admirer of art.”
Ambassador of Nepal Rita Dhital said, “It is an honor for Nepal to be part of this festival. We are also showcasing short films from Nepal. Madan Gopal participated last year as well. On behalf of the Government of Nepal, I congratulate Muhammad Ahmed Shah. Last year, there were 44 countries; this year, 142 are participating. I hope the next festival will be even bigger.”
Ambassador of Argentina Leopoldo Francisco Sahores remarked, “Argentine artist Adrian Bojko has travelled a long way to participate in this festival. Artists express their culture through art. For the first time, an Argentine artist is part of a festival in Pakistan. Culture connects societies, and the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi is playing the role of a bridge linking the world’s cultures. I hope this exchange of artistic and cultural experiences continues in the future.”
The exhibition featured artworks by Adrian Bojko (Argentina) , Suborna Morsheada , Shambhu Achariya , Niharika Mumtaz , and Bubly Barna (Bangladesh), Yaz (Comoros) , and Domi Forest (Sweden) , who deeply impressed Pakistani audiences with their artistic expressions. At the end of the ceremony, Chief Secretary Syed Asif Haider Shah and participating international artists were presented with shields by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi.
A special session titled “Cultural Diplomacy between Pakistan and Nepal” was also held, featuring discussions by Ambassador Rita Dhital and Chief Secretary Syed Asif Haider Shah on strengthening bilateral cultural ties.
During the “Opening Shorts: Diplomacy & Exchange” segment, five short films were screened: three from Pakistan, one from Sri Lanka, and one from Nepal, including “A Heart So Gentle”, “Rasm-e-Doori”, “The School’s Wall”, “Rohi”, and “The Last Endless Night”.
As part of “Ballet beyond Borders,” international dancers conducted a workshop, sharing the art of movement and performance.
The Kosovo Theatre Group presented the Albanian-language play “TE TURPERUARIT”* (The Ashamed), directed by Alton Basha. The play explored themes of identity, culture, and modern social conflicts — portraying how prejudice and discrimination rooted in cultural and religious backgrounds affect individuals in divided societies. The audience praised the powerful performances with loud applause.
The second day concluded with a Mega Musical Concert, featuring both Pakistani and international singers. International performers included Ammar Ashqar (Syria) , Lucy Tasker (Belgium) , Madan Gopal (Nepal) , Zakariya Haffar (France) , and Shireen Jawad (Bangladesh) . Pakistani stars Bilal Saeed, Akhtar Chanal, and Akbar Khameso Khan enthralled the audience with their mesmerizing performances.
