The 9th Islamabad Literary Festival for the year 2023, organized in partnership with Oxford University Press and the Capital Development Authority (CDA), commenced at the Gandhara Citizen Club in F-9 Park.
This captivating event provided an immersive exploration of literature in its diverse forms, featuring prominent authors and experts engaged in discussions and delivering keynote speeches.
The theme for this year’s event is “People, Planet, Possibilities,” serving as a call to action, urging individuals, communities, and organizations to collaborate in the pursuit of a more sustainable and inclusive world. It envisions a multitude of possibilities achievable through collective efforts guided by purpose and vision.
Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director of OUP Pakistan, emphasized the significant impact of literary festivals, highlighting that fostering a cultural shift relies on celebrating diverse perspectives and their positive influence. He expressed, “Literature stands as a testament to human resilience and provides a beacon of light in the darkest of times. Let us collectively look beyond uncertainty and embrace the beauty that tomorrow holds.”
Jane Marriott, the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, expressed gratitude for the global recognition attained by Pakistani authors, particularly those writing in English. She remarked on the power of literature to unleash imagination and self-expression.
The UK High Commissioner also touched upon the deep-seated connections between the UK and Pakistan, particularly in education and culture.
Khalid Mahmood, Managing Director of Getz Pharma Pvt. Ltd., reiterated the importance of sustainability and inclusivity, emphasizing that a sustainable world invites everyone to share in its abundance, regardless of their background or circumstances. He emphasized the cornerstone role of inclusivity in ensuring that no one is left behind on the journey toward a greener and more equitable planet.
Iftikhar Arif, a prominent Urdu poet, scholar, and literary figure, spoke about the need for recognition of various languages, both spoken and written, at the state level.
Victoria Schofield, a British author, biographer, and historian, expressed her delight at being back in Pakistan and her eagerness to explore the 9th edition of ILF.
Nauman Khalid, representing the Capital Development Authority (CDA), expressed his admiration for the festival and emphasized the importance of holding such events in the future.
The opening ceremony was concluded by Zahshanne Malik, a renowned actor, performer, artist, and dancer, who mesmerized the audience with her moving interpretation of Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s ‘Lao to Qatal Nama Mera.’
The day continued with insightful sessions, including a discussion on Iqbal’s poetry and its influence, a conversation on Pakistan’s Mangroves, and a meaningful discussion on the right to religious freedom, exploring “Jinnah’s Vision: Safeguarding Religious Freedom.”
Two remarkable art exhibitions, curated especially for this weekend-long event by connoisseurs Qudus Mirza, Ammar Faiz, and Fauzia Minhalla, showcased beautiful frames and sculptures, providing an excellent opportunity to appreciate the value of artistic expression and the power of communication through various mediums.
