Punjabi festival aims to revive cultural heritage, says Azma

LAHORE:Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has said that for the first time in the province’s history, Punjabi Culture Day is being celebrated officially.

She stated that Punjab’s culture is no longer orphaned; those who will care for it have arrived. She emphasised that PMLN leader Nawaz Sharif is personally in contact with artistes, and the chief minister envisions establishing a dedicated housing colony for them. Azma Bokhari said that the festival, officially launched under the special directive of the chief minister, will continue for three days, from 7PM to 10PM daily at Alhamra Arts Council, here. Families from across Punjab are actively participating, where Punjabi artistes are showcasing their talent. ‘Punjab’s culture is so rich and vibrant that it cannot be fully represented in just three days,’ she remarked. Alhamra has been transformed into a cultural hub, featuring representative pavilions from all divisions of Punjab, highlighting regional traditions, cuisine, attire, and customs.

She stated, ‘Punjab is the land of great Sufi saints like Baba Bulleh Shah, Waris Shah, Sultan Bahu, and Baba Farid – and today, we are reviving that cultural heritage.’ She also noted the unique identities and specialties of each Punjabi city – from the Sohan Halwa of Multan and Barfi of Eminabad to the buffaloes of Sahiwal and the world-famous cuisine of Gujranwala.

Azma Bokhari reiterated the chief minister’s commitment to the welfare of artistes, including the proposal of a housing colony specifically for them. ‘The chief minister’s participation in the festival sends a clear message – Punjab’s culture is no longer neglected. We are committed to preserving and promoting this heritage.’

She concluded by saying that the festival not only highlights Punjab’s rich cultural landscape but also serves as a bridge to connect the younger generation with their roots. Meanwhile, LWMC launched a comprehensive cleanliness operation at the Alhamra Art Council to ensure a clean and welcoming environment.

Over 20 workers and vehicles were deployed to conduct a thorough cleaning operation inside and around the Alhamra Hall on The Mall. According to LWMC CEO Babar Sahib Din, in line with the Punjab Chief Minister’s vision of a "Suthra Punjab," cleaning workers were assigned both inside and outside the Alhamra Art Centre.