Karachi is all set to turn into a hub of ideas, poetry, and dialogue once again as the 10th Adab Festival returns on November 22 and 23, 2025, at Habitt City, Tipu Sultan Road.
Organized by Lightstone Publishers under the leadership of Ameena Saiyid, the two-day literary event promises a star-studded lineup of writers, poets, thinkers, and artists from across Pakistan and beyond — and best of all, entry is free for everyone.
A meeting point for stories and ideas
Since its inception, Adab Festival (often called AdabFest) has stood as a space for free expression, cultural exchange, and literary appreciation. This year’s edition continues that legacy with a diverse mix of book launches, poetry sessions, panel discussions, film screenings, musical performances, and workshops.
Sessions will be held in Urdu, English, Sindhi, Punjabi, Balochi, Pashto, Saraiki, and Burushaski, celebrating Pakistan’s linguistic diversity in full color.
Who’s participating
The lineup includes some of the most respected and loved names in literature, media, and the arts:
Zehra Nigah, Kishwar Naheed, Noorul Huda Shah, Nadeem Farooq Paracha, Shandana Minhas, Mian Raza Rabbani, Sultana Siddiqui, and many others.
Each brings a unique voice — from poetry and fiction to politics and journalism — making the festival a rare intersection of art, intellect, and activism.
New awards and youth participation
The festival will also feature the Adab Festival/Infaq Foundation Literary Awards, recognizing excellence in writing across Urdu, English, and Sindhi works published in the past year.
To encourage young writers, a special creative writing workshop for participants aged 12–18 will be led by author Taha Kehar, focusing on storytelling, character-building, and writing for digital platforms.
Ameena Saiyid’s vision
Speaking at the festival’s launch, Ameena Saiyid said the event’s goal has always been to make literature accessible and inclusive:
“Adab Festival is not just about books — it’s about dialogue, culture, and community. It’s where people meet to share stories, challenge ideas, and celebrate creativity.”
She emphasized that in a time when polarization often dominates headlines, platforms like AdabFest play a vital role in promoting empathy and understanding through words.
More than just a literary event
AdabFest isn’t simply about authors and readers; it’s a cultural happening that brings Karachi’s creative community together. The evening sessions will include music performances, poetry recitals (mushairas), and film screenings, offering visitors a blend of art forms that reflect Pakistan’s vibrant creative identity.
For regular attendees, it’s a reminder that Karachi — despite its chaos — still beats to the rhythm of ideas, language, and hope.
When and where
Dates: November 22–23, 2025
Venue: Habitt City, Tipu Sultan Road, Karachi
Entry: Free and open to all
Adab Festival 2025 promises not only to be a literary feast but a celebration of Pakistan’s pluralism — a reminder that storytelling remains one of the strongest ways to connect, heal, and inspire.
