Lyari – for its multicultural and multiethnic communal diversity – has always been known as the home of renowned artists, socio political activists, literates, writers, poets, sports players, researchers, actors and more. Unfortunately, for more than a decade, the area has been in a serious state of affairs. The depth of talent and potential in Lyari as been stymied by external forces and deeply entrenched, endemic issues. But fortuitously, the patience and resilience of Lyarians in the face of adversity is finally bearing the fruits of peace and optimism.
21 & 22
September
Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University
11AM – 10PM
To restore the true identity of the epicenter of Karachi, Mehrdar Art & Productions is organizing the very first Lyari Literature Festival: a multi faceted event aimed at projecting Lyari in its true essence from multilingualism, ethnic diversity and rich culturalism facilitating the process of promoting peace and social harmony through art and literature.
The two day festival dated 21st – 22nd September will be held at the premises of Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University, Lyari. The resonating theme of the festival involves safe and peaceful universities building a positive narrative in resistance to extremism and violence amongst the youth of Lyari and opening alternative healthy avenues through public engagement in the field of art and literature.
Workshops
Mehardar Art and Productions is a Karachi based film production company which is gaining tangible recognition for producing fine, positive and socially motivated pieces of art. The festival is also sponsored by a number of other literary outfits, community groups and civil society members.
The main objective of this festival is to revive the glorious history of the Lyari region and the contributions of its multitalented people. The festival will exhibit a number of cultural exhibitions, panal discussions, expert talks and discourses, book launches, live musical performances and qawwali sessions, mehfil-e-mushaira, theater performances, literary workshops, art corners, reading corners and food and book stalls.
Performances
This Lyari Literature Festival is an open opportunity for budding writers, artists and performers to exhibit their genius. With an intent to accentuate commonalities rather than differences, the Lyari Literature Festival is all focused to facilitate the narrative of safe and constructive discourse for the youth and the generations yet to come.
For queries and location details, click right here.
