Islamabad: Lok Mela – the popular folk festival – at the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage in the capital city was opened to the public, according to news published on November 27. The Lok Mela will continue till December and will feature various traditional arts and crafts from across the country.
Adviser to Prime Minister (PM) for Political, Public Affairs and National Heritage & Culture Engr Amir Muqam inaugurated the festival, which was titled ‘Dastarbandi/Chadarposhi’. As per the traditions, the Lok Mela opens with the Dastarbandi/Chadarposhi of established folk artists and master artisans. This year, many master artisans were honoured with Dastars.
The adviser to PM, while speaking at the ceremony, welcomed all the participants. He went on to say that Lok Mela aimed for the preservation, propagation, and conservation of the folk cultural heritage including crafts, arts, traditional skills, of the country, and folk music. The minister added that this unique festival has become a symbol of the federation’s recognition of the rich cultural diversity and participation of the people.
Moreover, the festival aims to showcase a variety of cultures in the country along with introducing talented artists and artisans at the national level. Adviser to PM Muqam mentioned that such festivals are a priority of the government as it encourages initiatives related to the public welfare, development & promotion of Pakistan’s culture, and bring entertainment opportunities. He highlighted that the festival shows the true image of Pakistan as a peace-loving country.
Adviser Muqam also remarked that the country can earn more foreign exchange by promoting local handicrafts and presenting high cultural traditions, arts and historical artefacts to the world to show the bright side of our civilisation. He disclosed that part of the revenue generated through the mela will be donated to the Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund for the rehabilitation of flood affectees.
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