Awami Theatre Festival Concludes Amid Applause and Celebration

By: Aziz Khatri 

 KARACHI: The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi concluded its 26-day Awami Theatre Festival 2026 with a grand closing ceremony at Auditorium II, drawing a large audience of artists, cultural figures, and theatre enthusiasts. The event was graced by Sindh Labour, Human Resources, and Social Security Minister Saeed Ghani as the chief guest, alongside Arts Council President Muhammad Ahmed Shah and Chairman Drama Committee Shahzad Raza Naqvi.

During the ceremony, Ghani and Shah distributed shields, certificates, and cheques among the directors who participated in the month-long festival. The event, which began on January 22, featured 30 plays performed in Urdu, Punjabi, Memoni, Balochi, Saraiki, and Sindhi, vividly representing Pakistan’s linguistic and cultural diversity.

Prominent cultural personalities in attendance included Shakil Siddiqui, Sheema Kermani, Wajahat Warisi, Sohail Abbasi, Rizwan Mirza, Hameed Rathore, Aamir Rambo, and many others. The evening was hosted by Nauman Khan and filled with an atmosphere of celebration and mutual appreciation.

Addressing the gathering, Saeed Ghani congratulated the Arts Council team for organizing the festival’s successful run. He praised Muhammad Ahmed Shah’s leadership, crediting him with transforming the Arts Council into a globally recognized institution. Citing a foreign artist’s admiration during the World Culture Festival, Ghani remarked that such institutions built on “vision, dedication, and consistent effort” were rare even worldwide.

He further emphasized that the Arts Council promotes inclusivity, offering equal opportunities to artists regardless of background, and described it as a model of cultural unity.

In his address, Muhammad Ahmed Shah expressed hope that the younger generation would continue engaging with the theatre, ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of Karachi’s cultural life. He announced plans to establish a permanent structure for year-round theatre activities, extending beyond festivals.

Highlighting the aim of the Awami Theatre Festival, Shah said it sought to bring “smiles and joy to Karachi’s citizens ahead of Ramadan” a celebration of art and togetherness during challenging times. He lauded the enthusiastic public participation, noting that free entry encouraged families from all backgrounds to attend.

The ceremony concluded with a standing ovation for Muhammad Ahmed Shah, as theatre directors and artists acknowledged his enduring contributions to Pakistan’s cultural revival.