Karachi — The Arts Council of Pakistan (ACP) Karachi came alive on Friday night as the World Culture Festival 2025 officially kicked off, bringing together artists from across the globe under one powerful message: peace through culture, and unity through art.
The grand opening blended sound, color, and emotion — a reminder that even in a world full of divisions, art still finds a way to connect people.
A Global Gathering in the Heart of Karachi
Set to run through December 7, the month-long festival is one of the most ambitious cultural events ever hosted in Pakistan, featuring artists and delegates from over 140 countries. From Nepal to Belgium, Syria to Bangladesh, the opening night turned Karachi into a living canvas of global expression.
Audiences were treated to The Game, a visual art performance by Pakistani artist Amin Gulgee, followed by the vibrant Balochi Leva folk dance that had the crowd clapping in rhythm. Music transcended borders as French santoor player Zakaria Haffar shared the stage with Pakistani flutist Akbar Khamiso Khan, blending Eastern and Western melodies into something timeless.
Adding to the international flavor, dance groups from the United States — Ballet Beyond Borders and Chrome Louie — performed alongside regional troupes, while short films from South Korea (Plastic) and Kiribati (Love Note to an Island) carried environmental messages that resonated deeply with the night’s theme: connection and care for the planet.
“Art Can Speak Where Politics Fails”
ACP President Muhammad Ahmed Shah set the tone during his speech, saying, “Art can still speak where politics fails. This festival isn’t just about entertainment — it’s about dialogue, empathy, and peace.”
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, attending as chief guest, echoed that sentiment. Calling Karachi “unpredictable, vibrant, and alive,” he praised the city’s role as Pakistan’s cultural heart. “What started last year with 44 countries,” he said, “has now grown into a celebration involving more than 140 nations. That’s Karachi — unpredictable, yet full of promise.”
Beyond the Stage: A Cultural Mission
This year’s festival aims to do more than showcase talent. It’s about changing perceptions — presenting Pakistan, and particularly Karachi, as a hub of creative diplomacy.
“Every artist here, whether local or foreign, adds to a bigger story — one of coexistence and shared humanity,” said Shah, speaking earlier at a press briefing. “We’re not just promoting art; we’re building bridges.”
A Celebration with Purpose
Each week of the festival will spotlight a different region, featuring music, film, and visual art from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Exhibitions like Peace & Pieces are already underway, highlighting how culture can foster dialogue around peace and climate awareness.
Diplomats from Australia, France, Japan, UAE, Türkiye, Sri Lanka, Russia, and Bangladesh joined local officials at the opening ceremony — a sign that art really does transcend borders.
Why It Matters
Let’s be honest — Karachi doesn’t always make global headlines for the right reasons. But this festival flips that script. It paints a different picture: one of resilience, creativity, and connection.
Here, amidst music and laughter, global artists mingle with local craftsmen, and centuries-old traditions meet modern expression. It’s messy, it’s colorful, it’s alive — just like Karachi itself.
Looking Ahead
The World Culture Festival 2025 will continue until December 7, concluding with a closing ceremony expected to feature a grand international collaboration. Until then, visitors can explore weekly performances, film screenings, and art exhibitions celebrating every corner of the world.
And if you’re anywhere near Karachi this month — go. Even if you’re not a big “art person,” this festival might just change how you see culture, peace, and maybe even this city.
