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Day 37 of the World Culture Festival in Karachi Features Film, Workshops, Theatre, Dance, and Interactive Sessions

By: Aziz Khatri

Karachi: On the 37th day of the World Culture Festival, a diverse lineup included a presentation on “Graphic Design & Performing Arts” by Italian graphic designer Goffredo Puccetti, a theatre workshop titled “Scalambra,” the screening of the Palestinian Oscar-winning film “No Other Land,” and four short theatre performances by a Sri Lankan theatre group under the title “Gathering Dust.” The day concluded with Dance Night 4.0, featuring both national and international dancers. 

During the film session, Palestinian Ambassador Dr. Zuhair Mohammad Hamadallah Zaid, along with Dr. Umair and President of the Arts Council Muhammad Ahmed Shah, engaged in a detailed discussion about the current situation in Palestine. Dr. Zaid expressed his eagerness to visit the Arts Council in the past but noted that circumstances prevented him from doing so. He thanked Ahmed Shah for the invitation to the festival and emphasized that Palestine belongs not only to Arabs but to the entire Muslim Ummah. Commenting on the film, he stated that “No Other Land” highlights the struggle, history, culture, and sacrifices of the Palestinian people, underscoring that the fight is not only for land but also for identity and heritage. He shared personal reflections on his father's role in the Palestinian resistance during a time with little media coverage, expressing deep emotion towards Pakistan. Dr. Zaid noted that since his assignment in Pakistan, he has felt he was among his own people. He described the warmth and support he receives from the Pakistani people, remarking that they have historically stood by Palestine, even before the establishment of Pakistan.

President of the Arts Council, Muhammad Ahmed Shah, reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestine, asserting that global youth today recognize the Palestinian situation as one of the most critical issues worldwide.

Earlier in the day, Italian designer Goffredo Puccetti introduced students to the concept of global monograms and visual identity, emphasizing the importance of creating logos that are both meaningful and visually engaging. The theatre workshop “Scalambra,” led by actress Francesca Bizzari, focused on acting techniques, expression, and stage performance. The Sri Lankan segment, “Gathering Dust,” showcased four plays, including "Patterns of Our Genocides" (focused on Palestine), "Last Bus Eke Kathawa," "Girls at Checkpoints," and "The Certificate." Audiences responded enthusiastically to the diverse narratives and powerful performances.


The evening concluded with Dance Night 4.0, featuring dynamic performances by Alina Belyagina (Germany), Abdul Ghani (Pakistan), Jay C Val (Cameroon), Shaam (Syria), and students from Sovapa. Their collective stage presence and artistic energy captivated the audience, who responded with prolonged applause in the packed auditorium.

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