By Shaheen Hashim
KARACHI: Karachi witnessed a vibrant celebration of music, rhythm and cultural heritage as the Pakistan Print & Electronic Media Foundation (PPEMF), in collaboration with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), hosted its much-anticipated event Spring of Music & Rhythm at the National Museum Auditorium on Friday evening.
The program, attended by artists, media figures, cultural enthusiasts and distinguished guests, featured an array of captivating performances ranging from Sufi music to classical dance and traditional cultural displays. Renowned performers took the stage one after another, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience throughout the night.
Muhammad Irfan Soomro, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Liaison Office Karachi, graced the occasion as chief guest. In his remarks, Soomro commended PPEMF and PNCA for promoting Pakistan’s artistic legacy and providing platforms that bring communities together through the universal language of music and dance.
Z.H. Khurram, President of PPEMF, welcomed guests and highlighted the importance of cultural programming in fostering social harmony. Raheel Haider Shaikh, In-charge Programming at PNCA Karachi, noted that such events play a crucial role in supporting local talent and strengthening Pakistan’s creative landscape.
The program drew an impressive gathering of diplomats, artists, media professionals and cultural patrons. Among those in attendance were the Director General of the Foreign Affairs Liaison Office Karachi; the President of the Pakistan Print & Electronic Media Foundation; the Consul General of Japan; the Vice Consul of Iraq in Karachi; the CEO of A.O Clinic; the Director of PNCA Karachi; the PNCA Karachi program lead; and several well-known figures from the arts and media community.
The guests including, Dr Zahid Anesari, Nayyar Zaidi, Ustad Mazhar Umrawo Bando Khan, Baqar Shah, Tassawar Malik, Kinza Altaf, Naveed Aslam, Khizar Chaudry, Muhammad Asif, Tariq Masood, Maria Kazmi, Syed Turab Shah, Mudasir Muddasir Alam, Syed Ali Zaheer, Khurram Jamal, Azra Bano, Nasim Shah, Amir Sadozai, Erum Amir, Waseem Ahmed, Kanwal Abidi, Abbas Shah, Ms Fatima, Fariha, Dr Naseem Qaisar, Saima Khan, Pandit Mukash Kumar, Magan Singh, Mohsin Raza and others.
The evening concluded with a warm vote of thanks, as organisers reiterated their commitment to continuing cultural initiatives that showcase the diversity and richness of Pakistani performing arts. Attendees described the event as “refreshing,” “uplifting” and “a rare celebration of heritage in the heart of Karachi.”
