3-day Lahore Literary Festival begins

LAHORE:The 13th edition of the Lahore Literary Festival (LLF) commenced at the Lahore Arts Council, Alhamra, on Friday marking the opening of a vibrant 3-day celebration of arts, literature, history and civilisation.

An array of distinguished dignitaries, including Provincial Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari, British Council Director James Hampson, Unesco officer in charge in Pakistan Karahang Anthony Tom, Pakistan's Ambassador to France Nicolas Gely, LLF Chairman Iqbal Z Ahmed, LLF CEO and chairman Alhamra Razi Ahmed and Alhamra's Executive Director Alhamra Tauqeer Haider Kazmi and other guests attended the opening ceremony.

With over 150 national and international delegates in attendance, the festival promises to illuminate the minds of its visitors through sixty engaging sessions covering a broad spectrum of topics, from arts and literature to history and sociology.

Over the next three days, the participants will embark on an intellectual journey, exploring the rich tapestry of cultural heritage that has shaped civilisations over the centuries. The Lahore Literary Festival stands as a beacon of cultural dialogue and creative expression, setting the stage for transformative discussions and inspiring future endeavors in the arts.

The festival began on a patriotic note with a stirring rendition of the national anthem by a talented Alhamra Academy of Arts student. Razi Ahmed expressed heartfelt gratitude to the national and international delegates for participating in the festival. Alongside Director James Hampson, he presented awards to the winners of the Lok Dastan Prize 2025 while also honouring scholar Rashid Ahmed and writer Ikramullah with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their contributions to literature and scholarship.

Razi said that the 13th edition of LLF celebrated literature, culture, and the power of ideas. It continued to bring together voices worldwide, fostering dialogue and enriching minds. The Executive Director of Alhamra commended the entire Alhamra team for their unmatched support and dedication. "The success of this festival is a testament to the unwavering commitment and hard work of the Alhamra team. Their support has been instrumental in creating a platform where art and literature converge to celebrate centuries of civilisation," he remarked.

LLF CEO Razi Ahmed was also honoured with France's prestigious Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for his exemplary contributions to the arts and cultural exchange. Chairman LLF Iqbal Z Ahmed announced the award, celebrating Razi Ahmed's tireless efforts in promoting national and international literary and artistic endeavors in an impressive ceremony.