Islamabad: The five-day Saqafati Mela opened here Thursday at National Institute of Folk & Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) to entertain the people of twin-cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad with vibrant colours of Pakistan’s cultural heritage.

A contingent of about one hundred master artisans, folk artists, rural musicians and dance groups are participating in the Mela, bringing with them their creativity in arts and crafts.

The main focus of the festival is on Provincial Harmony and National Integration highlighting contribution of people from diverse communities in building future of Pakistan.

Saqafati Mela is a unique opportunity to experience the colours and warmth of diverse cultures from all over Pakistan. Provincial food courts, folk music, theater, display of art and crafts as well as traditional heritage from every corner of Pakistan are part of the Mela to celebrate the dynamic creativity of Pakistan’s traditional craftsmanship and promote rural folk artisans at the national level without involvement of middleman. The festivities of Saqafati Mela will continue till 19th June, 2023

Highlight of today’s programs was special performance by Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) performing Art Group. The PNCA performing Art Group comprise of experience dancers, orchestras and technical staff who showcased regional dances of Pakistan.

Folk musical performances also followed the dances belonging to various regions of Pakistan, Folk artists highlighted the fascinating folk music and traditions of all the regions of Pakistan.