PM, Punjab CM open horse, cattle show after 35-year hiatus

LAHORE: After a 35-year gap, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz officially inaugurated the National Horse & Cattle Show 2025 at the Fortress Stadium on Sunday.

Expressing her deep love for Punjab, Maryam performed a digital inauguration of the event using a handprint, stating, “May my beautiful country and beloved homeland Punjab remain happy and prosperous forever.” She also extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif upon his arrival at the ceremony.

The grand opening featured a traditional buggy ride, with the PM and CM reaching the salute platform in a spectacle reminiscent of Punjab’s rich heritage. A contingent of four horsemen sought their permission to commence the event, after which the chief guests formally inaugurated the show.

As the festivities began, the Fortress Stadium echoed with the rhythmic beat of drums, marking the arrival of international tent pegging teams from Pakistan, Kuwait, Norway, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United States. Archery teams from Pakistan, Iran, Türkiye, and Tajikistan also participated in the grand parade.

The livestock march followed, featuring dancing camels, along with exhibitions of elite buffalo breeds such as Nili Ravi and Sahiwal. Spectators were captivated by Lohi and Mundri sheep, Faisalabadi and Gujrati betel goats, and dancing goats. Vibrant floats showcasing regional and provincial cultures added to the spectacle.

Adding an international flair, Slovak artists wowed the audience with laser light tricks, while a Macedonian band performed traditional Punjabi songs. The event also featured regional dance performances, with hundreds of drummers energising the crowd. One drummer, impressively playing six drums simultaneously, became a major highlight.

A mesmerising dervish dance choreographed by Wahab Shah left the audience spellbound, followed by traditional Punjabi folk performances. Thousands of youth and children gathered for a special live performance by Atif Aslam, while drones illuminated the sky with national symbols like the Pakistani flag and Minar-e-Pakistan.

A massive crowd of families attended the event, enthusiastically applauding the performances. The CM mingled with the audience, receiving a warm welcome with resounding chants in her honour.

Earlier, Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed her commitment to supporting underprivileged families, stating, “We will not only build houses but also make them livable,” while expressing her deep affection for the daughters of the province.

She announced the completion of Phase-1 of the Punjab Dhi Rani Program, which facilitated 1,500 mass marriages, and confirmed that applications for another 1,500 marriages under Phase-II have now begun.

Applications can be submitted online through the official portal (www.cmp.punjab.gov.pk) or at the district offices of the Deputy Director Social Welfare. Additionally, a dedicated helpline (1312) has been established for inquiries.

The chief minister highlighted that the Punjab government will provide food for the bride, groom, and close relatives during the mass marriage ceremonies. Each newlywed couple will receive Rs100,000 in gift money via ATM cards, along with furniture, clothes and other essential household items.

Maryam reiterated her administration’s commitment to uplifting marginalised communities, stating, “Every daughter of Punjab is cherished, and I feel immense joy in helping build their homes.” She said that the government is responsible for the welfare of poor and underprivileged, pledging to fulfil this duty with dedication and compassion. She concluded by highlighting the cultural significance of caring for daughters, calling it a “valuable tradition of Punjab.”