By Muhammad Arshad
KARACHI: The 17th Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) 2026 opened on Friday under the theme “Literature in a Fragile World.” Organized by Oxford University Press Pakistan, the festival began on a somber note with a moment of silence for victims of the Gul Plaza fire and for those killed in Friday’s Islamabad bomb blast.
The three-day event brings together writers, thinkers, and readers to explore literature and culture. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, the chief guest, highlighted the role of literature and culture in building an enlightened society. “In times of global uncertainty, literature provides stability and humanity,” he said.
In a keynote address, Senator Sherry Rehman spoke on the “New World Disorder,” warning that “climate conferences are expensive and excluding. If you are not on the table, you are on the menu. The Karachi Literature Festival has become the soul of Karachi. At this time, the world is in great need of knowledge and literature.”
“Literature in a Fragile World, this year’s KLF theme, is both timely and deeply relevant. Literature serves as a stabilizing and humanizing force in such times.” In his welcome address, organizer Arshad Saeed Husain said, “Literature is not an indulgence, it is a civic imperative. This festival embodies responsible innovation and shared prosperity.
Only the sustainable form of power persuades through evidence, empathy, and perseverance.” Consul General of France, Alexis Chahtahtinsky, said, “We are celebrating knowledge, culture, and civilization.” British Deputy High Commissioner Lance Domm highlighted the contribution of British authors to the festival.
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