KARACHI: The 39-day World Culture Festival 2025 began on a vibrant note at the Arts Council of Pakistan in Karachi on Friday, marking the start of one of South Asia’s largest cultural gatherings that brings together artists from 141 countries under themes of peace — with a homage to Gaza — and environmental awareness.
The festival opened with colorful performances, film screenings and exhibitions aimed at promoting cross-cultural harmony. The event, which runs through December 7, features artists and troupes from countries including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, France, Japan, Türkiye and Sri Lanka, alongside a strong lineup of Pakistani performers.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, who inaugurated the event, praised the Arts Council for turning Karachi into “the cultural heart of the nation.”
“Karachi, unpredictable, vibrant and alive, has always embodied the soul of Pakistan,” he said. “Today, it welcomes the world.”
“What began last year as a bold experiment with artists from 44 countries has now grown into a festival representing 142 nations and over 1,000 artists,” he continued, highlighting this as proof of Pakistan’s commitment to building cultural bridges.
