Written By: Rehan Botejue
Event and campaign organisers I AM KARACHI have well represented the increasingly dedicated Karachiites determined to positively affect the climate of the city. Through incredible initiatives like the upcoming International Public Art Festival 2019, they’ve built up considerable enthusiasm for valuable public events.
I AM KARACHI Music Festival Powered by Pepsi took place on the vibrant main campus of Iqra University. The main attractions were the concerts of two well known local rock bands: Kashmir, former Battle of the Bands Season 2 winners, and Dervesh, a 10-man Sufi and Qawwali rock group.
Festival-goers walked through two barriers complete with rotating security doors, ticket checks and metal detectors before entering the open space in front of a dynamic, decked out stage.
A row of niche food stalls stood out near the entrance – ‘Chai with Bob Marley’, classic desi small bites like samosas and pharrattas, assortments of snacks and biscuits and much more. The area was relatively clean, with trash bins placed strategically around.
The voice of the announcer resounded through the venue, with a bright screen playing multimedia compilations of all the event partners. Blue and white lights constantly flashed through the influx of people, and electronic panels flanked the sides of the stage. The crowd was repeating “I Am Karachi” as the announcer lead the chant.
The announcer interacted with the audience throughout, pumping up the crowd and even bringing people on stage. He introduced the opening act: 12 finalists from I AM KARACHI’s ‘Music Mentorship Program’.
Developed for aspiring vocalists, the 6-month program focused on providing talented youth from different parts of Karachi with a free education in music, from a variety of genres including rock, pop, eastern classical, jazz and qawwali. The finalists received an epic countdown before their opening performance.
The rock bands ended the night with typically electrifying performances. Kashmir blessed the audience with a new single performed live for the first time and Dervesh capped off a particularly eventful night as both bands kept the crowd thoroughly engaged. The event was yet another fantastic event hosted by I AM KARACHI and its success is testament to the growing positive initiatives in the city. Be on the lookout for upcoming I AM KARACHI events in the future!
