Sindh Theatre Festival Larkana 2025newspaper blogspot

By: Aziz Khatri

Larkana: The vibrant atmosphere of Larkana came alive as the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, in collaboration with the Arts Council Larkana, inaugurated the “10-day Sindh Theatre Festival Larkana 2025” at the Arts Council Larkana. The event was honored by the presence of the Chief Guest, Commissioner Larkana Tahir Sangi, along with other dignitaries.

The opening ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Dr. Ayub Shaikh, Chairman of the Folk Heritage Committee of the Arts Council Karachi, and Amjad Hussain Shah, Chairman of the Music Committee. The President of the Arts Council Larkana, Ismail Jatoi, Secretary Hanif Suhag, along with theatre artists, showbiz personalities, and a large number of enthusiastic local citizens, also marked their presence at this significant event.

In his speech, Commissioner Sangi emphasized the role of cultural engagement in addressing social issues, stating, “The work we should be doing is already being done by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi. After attending this event, I feel like a changed man — one who now truly understands the importance of cultural connections. Through cultural engagement, many social evils can be addressed and eliminated.”

After the inaugural festivities, Dr. Ayub Shaikh presented financial support checks to theatre directors on behalf of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, further enhancing the support for local artists.

Dr. Ayub Shaikh recognized the persistent efforts of Muhammad Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, praising his dedication to revitalizing art councils throughout Sindh. “Theatre festivals, music festivals, and other cultural activities are being financially supported by the Arts Council Karachi throughout the province. His vision is to create a strong network among artists and promote a rich cultural atmosphere in Sindh,” he noted.

The festival is set to continue daily until June 22, with shows commencing each evening at 8:30 PM at the Arts Council Larkana. Audiences can anticipate an exciting lineup of performances, including compelling stage plays such as “Daywidhi” by Amjad Abro, “Kati a konhay doh” (Ufaq Basheer Channa), “Thano Siyano” (Shameem Abbasi), “Taraqi jo rasto” (Rafique Abro), “Bhala Re Bhaag” (Ayoob Gaad), “Wah JoAayhan” (Asad Khokhar), “Bewas” (Asad Khokhar), “Aas Naras” (Ufaq Basheer Channa), with the festival concluding on the final day with “Qaidyani” by Loung Sheikh.

The festival kicked off with a powerful performance of “Ishq Fishq,” a thought-provoking play by Wajid Aazad that tackled the pressing issue of drug addiction and its devastating effects on the youth. The performance was met with critical acclaim for its impactful narrative and compelling acting.

This festival underscores the crucial role of the arts in shaping culture and fostering community connections, making it an event of great significance for Larkana and the broader Sindh region.