ISLAMABAD: Islamabad is once again set to dazzle with the colors, sounds and spirit of Pakistan’s cultural diversity as Lok Virsa transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity and celebration.
Under the clear autumn skies, the sprawling grounds bustle with artisans giving final touches to their stalls, musicians tuning their instruments, and the scent of traditional food filling the air-heralding the grand opening of Lok Mela 2025, the country’s most awaited folk festival.
Organized by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) under the National Heritage and Culture Division, the ten-day festival will run from November 07-16, promising to turn the capital into a vibrant hub of Pakistan’s folk heritage.
This year’s theme, “Celebrate Pakistan’s Colors, Crafts, and Culture -all in one place,” captures the essence of the event-a joyful union of provinces, traditions, and communities.
Pavilions representing Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are being set up with distinctive decorations that mirror each region’s identity. Artisans are arranging displays of embroidered textiles, mirror work, pottery, and handmade jewelry.