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Music has long been known to heal, connect and empower, especially for those who experience the world differently. Shaan-e-Pakistan, a cultural platform known for promoting cross-border collaboration through art, food, fashion and music, marked its tenth anniversary with an initiative dedicated to the visually impaired and especially abled. The organisation launched an academy offering free music education and practice space, reaffirming its belief that creativity thrives strongest when it includes everyone. Founded by Huma Haji Zikar Pardesi and Irfan Haji Zikar Pardesi, the academy aims to nurture artistic expression and provide a platform for talented individuals to perform locally and internationally.
The celebration began with a media meet-and-greet attended by notable figures. A short musical presentation followed, leading into a mash-up titled ‘The World is different but emotions are the same’, produced and directed by Huma Pardesi. One of the most touching moments was the performance ‘We Sense’, prepared and performed by the academy’s students who had been practicing for weeks under Pardesi’s direction, with support from Fragrance Lab.
The night also featured an engaging panel, ‘The World is Blind’, moderated by actor Alyy Khan, who has worked with the organisation before. The discussion included Nadira Panjwani, president of IRWA (International Right of Way Association) and academy co-founder Irfan Pardesi. Khan shared a personal story about his niece who lost her eyesight at nine but went on to become a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Another conversation between Aiman, an MBBS student passionate about human development and Yumna Ikram, an advocate for inclusion and digital literacy, explored how opportunities can help transform perceptions about disability.
An MOU signing between the academy and ‘Ida Rieu’, an institution for the blind and mute, formalised their collaboration, followed by heartfelt performances from Ida Rieu students. Speaking on the occasion, Huma Pardesi said, “SEPMA 2025 brings a re-strategised approach towards my vision to enhance, unite and highlight musical talent globally, by focusing on a different kind of inclusivity this time. Under this vision, we have provided a platform to visually-impaired students who have a talent for singing to be a part of our journey and nurture and showcase their talent.”
The event concluded with a Q&A session and closing remarks by Irfan Pardesi, leaving the audience inspired by the reminder that music, in its truest form, is a shared human language that connects hearts beyond sight or circumstance.
- You! desk