Alhamra all set to host Think Fest 2025 today

LAHORE:The Alhamra Arts Council is set to host Think Fest 2025 today (Saturday) and tomorrow (Sunday). Featuring a stellar lineup of global thought leaders, scholars, and creatives, the event aims to spark intellectual curiosity and foster transformative discussions.

This year’s festival includes luminaries such as filmmaker Mira Nair, historian Ayesha Jalal, political scientist Mahmood Mamdani, and economist Stefan Dercon. Pakistan’s prominent opinion-makers, including Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Miftah Ismail, Hina Rabbani Khar, and Salman Akram Raja will join the discussion.

Renowned artistes like Mohsin Hamid, Marina Khan, Ahad Raza Mir and Nadia Khan will also provide insights into the evolving creative industries. The two-day event, promises compelling book launches, panel discussions, artistic exhibitions and insightful conversations.

Topics include the geopolitics of technology, climate change from the Global South, and the role of storytelling in global discourse. Cultural enthusiasts can also enjoy a festive Lohri celebration at Alhamra Gardens. With free entry, Think Fest 2025 is accessible to all, offering a vibrant space for exchanging knowledge and ideas.

Event for music talent

The Alhamra Cultural Complex in Gulberg 3 came alive with vibrant performances by emerging artistes, celebrating the immense talent and passion of young musicians. Highlights included soulful vocals, dazzling instrumental solos and a powerful fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds, reaffirming Alhamra’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of cultural stars. Promising vocalists Alia Akbar, Aleena Sarfraz, Ayman Fatima, and Syeda Maryam enthralled attendees with their melodious renditions.

Mirza’s soulful performance of Heer, accompanied by Angel Sunil on violin, added a traditional charm to the evening.

Instrumentalists showcased their brilliance, with Shehryar on flute, Alisha on tabla, Haroon on dholak, Baziliel on keyboard, Raheem on drums, and Rachael Babar on guitar, creating a symphony of sounds that resonated with the audience. Alhamra Chairman Razi Ahmed commended the initiative. Executive Director Tauqeer Haider Kazmi emphasised the importance of nurturing young talent.