Arts Alumni Festival 2025 Pays Tribute to Pakistan’s Martyrs and Showcases Youth Talent

The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi hosted the

second day of the three-day Arts Alumni Festival

2025 with grandeur and patriotic fervor

Staff Reporter

Karachi: The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi hosted the second day of the three-day Arts Alumni Festival 2025 with grandeur and patriotic fervor. The event was graced by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, who was warmly welcomed by Arts Council President Muhammad Ahmed Shah.

The day began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and the national anthem, which the audience observed standing in unity. A special segment honored the martyrs of the Pakistan-India conflict and celebrated the bravery of the Pakistan Armed Forces.

CM Murad Ali Shah Praises Artists and Armed Forces

Speaking at the event, CM Murad Ali Shah lauded the performers and emphasized the importance of art in promoting peace. “Art is our weapon of peace, and our youth are its fearless warriors. We must empower them to continue performing for peace and harmony,” he said.

The chief minister congratulated the Arts Council for dedicating the festival to Pakistan’s martyrs and for showcasing national unity through artistic expression. He stated, “On May 7, when Pakistan was attacked at four locations, the Pakistan Air Force responded with courage, downing five Indian aircraft, including a Rafale jet. A second attack on May 10 led to the launch of Operation Bunyan Mursoos.”

Referring to the Pehlgam incident, Shah said it was a calculated move by India, but Pakistan condemned it immediately. “Our armed forces, government, and media responded responsibly, proving that any adventurism will meet a strong reply,” he noted.

Emotional Tributes Through Art and Performance

The event featured a patriotic poetic recitation by renowned poetess Ambreen Haseeb Ambar, with powerful verses presented by Anwar Shaoor, Fatima Hasan, and Farasat Rizvi, capturing the spirit of Operation Bunyan Mursoos. Popular singer Muhammad Zubair and Kamran Sago enthralled the audience with patriotic songs that stirred national pride.

Three impactful theatre plays—“Azaadi Ek Jung,” “Monica & A Tale of Two Betrayed,” and “Salgirah”—were staged, conveying messages of freedom and resilience. Additionally, a Fine Art and Music Masterclass, a panel discussion on “AI, the Author, and Authenticity,” and a Bharatanatyam dance workshop added educational and cultural depth to the festival.

CM Condemns Terrorism Against Youth

CM Murad Shah strongly condemned recent terrorist attacks targeting students, including incidents in Khuzdar and Bahawalpur, where innocent schoolchildren lost their lives. “The enemies of peace use weapons, but our students carry the pen and the brush. It is through education and art that we will defeat them,” he declared.

He praised the Arts Council for shaping creative minds and contributing to Pakistan’s peaceful identity globally. “Our youth are excelling in fields like IT and can counter digital threats from our adversaries. Their talent is our strength.”

Arts Council’s Role in Nation Building

Arts Council President Ahmed Shah highlighted that the Arts Alumni Festival 2025 marks five decades of excellence in arts education. “This festival reflects the courage and creativity of our youth. Back in 1965, our artists led the way with music and poetry, and they continue to do so today,” he said.

Festival-goers also enjoyed block and screen printing exhibits, traditional Pakistani folk music performances, and a vibrant food court.