The first-ever Faiz International Festival was inaugurated at Alhamra Hall here on Thursday to celebrate the literary work and poetry of legendary poet Faiz Ahmad Faiz.
Faiz died on November 20, 1984. The festival will span over four days in which the artists and intellectuals from all over the world are participating.
The inauguration ceremony was addressed by Punjab Governor Rafique Rajwana as the chief guest and legendary actor from India Naseeruddin Shah also graced the event and received a warm welcome from the audience.
The event formally commenced with the national anthem of Pakistan and it was interesting to note Mr Shah was also standing when the anthem was being played. A short documentary of Faiz Foundation Trust (FFT) was presented to highlight the glimpses of Faiz’s life and the activities of FFT. The services of Faiz Ghar were also highlighted to promote the progressive and humanistic approach of the late poet.
In the beginning of his presidential address, the Governor said Faiz is the name of a movement and everyone must try to spread his message of peace. He was of the view that the hatred can be eliminated from the society by spreading the message of Faiz. He said that peace must be given a chance in this intolerant society and this very was the mission of Faiz Ahmad Faiz.
Salima Hashmi, the chairman of Faiz Foundation Trust, thanked the guests and audience and said the message of Faiz would be spread from the platform of international festival. She demanded the Punjab government that endowment fund must be initiated for the Faiz Trust. In the end, the audience was enthralled by a play of Ajoka Theater named “Rozan-e-Zindan Se” to pay the rich tribute to the poet. The play is based on the letters of Faiz and his wife Alys during his days of imprisonment.
The festival will continue from November 19 to 22 at the Alhamra Centre and Falettis Hotel, Lahore.
The festival will include 30 literary and political sessions, five book launches, a mushaira, four theatre performances, five musical performances and two dance performances. Activities for children include interactive book launch, theatre, musical performance, films, puppet shows, and a puppet making workshop by Uncle Sargam.
The highlight of the festival will be the performance of Einstein by the renowned Indian actor Naseeruddin Shah, performances by the celebrated Indian singer Sonam Kalra, as well as Tahira Syed, Tina Sani, Ali Sethi, Adeel Hashmi and Asad Anees.
