In a significant move to bolster cultural diplomacy, Pakistan and Tajikistan will hold a week-long cultural celebration, punctuated by a grand gala at Lahore’s historic Shahi Fort designed to revive the shared artistic legacy of the Mughal era.
The ambitious initiative, titled the ‘Week of Tajikistan Culture,’ aims to strengthen bilateral relations and celebrate the profound heritage linking the two nations. The week-long showcase is being jointly organized by the Ministries of Culture from both countries, in partnership with the Embassy of Tajikistan, the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), and Lok Virsa, an official statement confirmed Friday.
A diverse lineup of events is planned for Islamabad, promising a vibrant immersion into Tajik traditions. The schedule includes a comprehensive cultural showcase, an art exhibition titled ‘Land of Mountains and Poets,’ a fusion music and dance night, and a film festival dedicated to Tajik cinema.
Further enriching the experience will be live handicraft demonstrations, a culinary festival offering authentic Tajik cuisine, and a dedicated literary forum.
The proposal for the Lahore gala was presented during a meeting on Friday between the Ambassador of Tajikistan to Pakistan, Sharifzoda Yusuf Toirali, and Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, as they reviewed the event’s arrangements. The ambassador emphasized that the Lahore event would highlight the centuries-old cultural and linguistic connections between the regions.
Ambassador Sharifzoda conveyed the eagerness of Tajik artists, musicians, and dancers to collaborate with their Pakistani counterparts and display traditional crafts like hand embroidery. He also announced the upcoming launch of two films centered on Tajik history, culture, and classical poetry, noting that the people of Tajikistan draw great inspiration from the works of Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
Invitations for the Islamabad and Lahore events will be extended to prominent political figures, including the Chief Minister of Punjab, the ambassador confirmed. He reaffirmed Tajikistan’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in ventures that promote their common Mughal-era artistic heritage.
Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi enthusiastically welcomed the proposal, stating that such cultural cooperation would greatly enhance people-to-people connections. ‘It is my pleasure to work together on initiatives that reflect our shared history, values, and artistic traditions,’ he remarked.
The final dates for the cultural week will be announced after the conclusion of the upcoming Lok Mela 2025. Following the high-level meeting, Secretary of the National Heritage and Culture Division, Assad Rehman Gillani, briefed the Tajik ambassador on the proposed venues and logistical arrangements for the celebration.