Karachi is preparing to welcome a major international cultural gathering as the World Culture Festival returns later this month. The third edition, organised by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi with support from the Sindh government, will begin on October 29 and continue until November 22. More than 1,000 international artists from around 150 countries are expected to participate, alongside more than 500 Pakistani artists.
Artists From Around the World to Participate
Arts Council President Muhammad Ahmed Shah said the festival would bring together artists from six continents. Participants will include artists from the United States, Iran, Iraq, Palestine and Latin American countries. Two Palestinian theatre groups will also perform during the festival.
Shah highlighted the participation of artists from countries currently facing conflicts. He said bringing artists from different nations together showed how culture could create connections despite political divisions.
The festival will feature music, theatre, dance, visual arts and film. Pakistani artists will also collaborate with international performers through fusion programmes.
Most Festival Programmes to Remain Free
Shah said around 80 to 85 per cent of the festival programmes would remain free for visitors. However, audiences will need to register before attending these events. Organisers will charge tickets for a limited number of major concerts.
The Arts Council expects the festival to attract large audiences while giving local artists opportunities to perform alongside international talent.
Festival Promotes Cultural Exchange
Sindh Chief Secretary Syed Asif Haider Shah recalled the challenges surrounding the festival’s first edition. He said organisers initially faced security concerns but decided to move forward with the event. Participation has since grown from artists representing around 40 countries to performers from more than 150 nations.
“Art knows no boundaries,” the chief secretary said.
The festival has also become part of Sindh’s wider cultural diplomacy efforts. Officials believe international visitors can experience Pakistan directly and take back a positive message about the country.
Pakistan Highlights Its Cultural Identity
Sindh Culture and Tourism Minister Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah said the festival has helped project Pakistan’s soft image internationally. He said cultural activities allow foreign artists and visitors to experience Pakistan’s heritage, traditions and hospitality.
Meanwhile, the Sindh government and Arts Council are coordinating security, traffic and other arrangements for the month-long event. Authorities also plan to improve facilities around the Arts Council as part of a broader cultural development project.
With artists arriving from across the globe, the World Culture Festival aims to turn Karachi into a meeting point for different cultures, artistic traditions and ideas.
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