Punjab govt to preserve cultural heritage, says Azma

LAHORE:Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has said a grand event will be held at Alhamra on April 17 and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz will grace the event regarding Punjabi Culture Day.

Attending an event on the occasion of Punjabi Culture Day that was organised by Punjab Department of Information and Culture across the province the other day, the minister said the CM will deliver a special address on the occasion as she has a deep and heartfelt connection with Punjabi culture. Azma maintained that Punjabi turban is a symbol of pride and honour for Punjabis and their culture holds a unique identity globally. She said the Punjab government was keen to promote Punjabi culture and pass it on to the next generation, and efforts are underway to preserve the cultural heritage and strengthen Punjab’s recognition at the global level. On the occasion music, dance, and other cultural performances were held and government schools throughout the province celebrated the event with great zeal to familiarise the new generation with their traditions.

Meanwhile, Azma Bokhari, held a detailed meeting with theatre artistes and owners to consult on the new Theatre Act and address their concerns. Prominent figures, including actress Megha, Naseem Vicky, Nasir Chinyoti, Agha Majid, Sohail Ahmed, Qaiser Sanaullah, Dr Ajmal, and others participated in the meeting.

Azma Bokhari said that the Punjab government wanted to introduce a new and comprehensive Theatre Act after thorough consultation with all relevant stakeholders to establish a strong foundation for the theatre industry. She emphasised that the primary purpose of this initiative was to resolve the concerns of artistes and owners and to restore the dignity of theatre.

Theatre artistes and owners appreciated the steps taken by the minister and expressed their satisfaction with the new Theatre Act, assuring their full cooperation with the government. On this occasion, Azma Bokhari reiterated that the Punjab government will take all possible measures for the improvement and promotion of theatre, with the restoration of its true cultural essence being a top priority.

Furthermore, Azma Bokhari reaffirmed her commitment that all reforms will be carried out in consultation with artistes and the theatre industry to nurture a transparent, dynamic, and high-quality theatre culture.