International Artists Moved to Tears Over Gaza Genocide at World Culture Festival 2025

Zahid Farshori

Karachi: On the fourth day of the 39-day World Culture Festival 2025 at the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, international artists were visibly moved as they spoke about the ongoing genocide in Gaza. The day featured a mix of workshops, debates, film screenings, and performances — but the session titled “Art as a Bridge” became the emotional heart of the festival.

Art as a Bridge: A Call for Peace through Creativity

The session brought together artists from across the world who reflected on the role of art in fostering empathy, peace, and unity amid global conflicts.
Argentinian artist Adrian Bojko chanted “Free Palestine”, while Comoros painter Yaz said,

“When I see genocide, I feel deep sadness. I can only imagine the pain we’d endure if we were there. The loss of innocent lives makes me weep.”

He also expressed his admiration for Karachi, adding, “I have fallen in love with this city — its people, food, and energy.”

Swedish artist Domi Forest remarked,

“Hearing about genocide, wars, and child abuse breaks my heart. The Arts Council students are exceptionally talented. Language is never a barrier when your art speaks for you.”

Bangladeshi artist Niharika Mumtaz shared,

“Art serves as a bridge — it has no language. No artist supports war or genocide. I’ve brought Bangladeshi heritage art to Pakistan and I’m proud to represent our culture here.”

Workshops and Cultural Exchange

Earlier in the day, the festival opened with a theatre workshop led by French artists from Cirk Biz’Art, who trained Arts Council students in stage performance and improvisation techniques.

Later, Niharika Mumtaz delivered a detailed presentation titled “Me and My Work as a Jewellery & Textile Designer”, sharing her journey of showcasing Bangladeshi heritage across Doha, Nigeria, Istanbul, and Dubai.

Films on Heritage and Memory

The film segment featured two short films exploring identity and memory — the Iranian feature “Urgent Cut-Off” by Maryam Bahrololoumi and the Norwegian short “Return to the Sky” by Katarina Sjåfjell. Both films received strong audience engagement for their nuanced storytelling and visual style.

Dance Workshop Unites Global Artists

At Studio II, an energetic dance workshop led by the Congo Street Dancers introduced unique rhythms and movements. The session saw participation from Norwegian theatre artist Karen Houge, Pakistani dancer Nighat Chaudhry, and choreographer Mani Chau.
The workshop concluded with an impromptu dance performance by artists and students, filling the space with vibrant energy and cross-cultural celebration.

Iraqi Theatre Closes the Day

The day concluded with the Iraqi theatre play “A Moment”, directed by Professor Mohamed Khalis Ibrahim. The production featured Mohammed Farhan Mahmood, Yousuf Mohammed Yousuf, Murtaza Mohammed Sattar, and Haitham Ali Abbas.
The play blended texts by Samuel Beckett and Abdul Kareem Al-Omari, offering a moving portrayal of human suffering and the search for peace and meaning amid chaos.