Islamabad: The 9th Islamabad Literary Festival of 2023, a joint endeavor by Oxford University Press and the Capital Development Authority (CDA), commenced at the Gandhara Citizen Club in F-9 Park on Friday. This literary celebration will span three days, concluding on Sunday.
Themed “People, Planet, and Possibilities,” the festival launched at 4:00 pm on Friday with a vibrant ceremony. Attended by a diverse array of senior officers, politicians, citizens, including the British High Commissioner, federal ministers, senior journalists, and prominent figures in literature and the arts, the opening ceremony highlighted the significance of the Urdu language. Particularly, emphasis was placed on its importance in Urdu literature for the younger generation.
The opening ceremony paid tribute to the oppressed Palestinians, showing solidarity with their cause. Additionally, it underscored the importance of Urdu as the official language.
At 6:00 pm, the program “Lao To Ku qatal Nama Meera” honored the famous poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz, followed by a panel discussion on the importance of Urdu language and innovative methods to engage the youth in Urdu literature.
The first day of the festival showcased various programs. “Iqbal: A Pioneering Poet” was presented at the Intizar Hussain Auditorium, emphasizing the significance of Pakistan. Simultaneously, the Parveen Shaker Hall hosted a program highlighting the importance of forest preservation and tree plantation, featuring eminent environmentalists.
Concluding the day’s events, the Amjad Islam Amjad Hall hosted a program delving into the ideology of Quaid-i-Azam, in which writers and distinguished social workers of the country participated.
The Islamabad Literary Festival’s inaugural day was rich with diverse activities, honoring literary icons, championing language importance, and shedding light on environmental conservation, all of which are integral aspects of Pakistan’s cultural tapestry.
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