The Gurmani Centre for Language and Literature, in collaboration with the LUMS Cultural Society and Student Council, organized the Haft Zubani Mela, a vibrant celebration of Pakistan’s linguistic diversity. The event brought together scholars, poets, musicians, and students to honor the country’s rich multilingual heritage through engaging discussions, poetry recitations, and mesmerizing musical performances.

The evening commenced with opening remarks from the hosts, who set the stage by highlighting the significance of linguistic and cultural preservation in Pakistan. Dr Ali Usman Qasmi, Director Gurmani Centre, welcomed everyone to the Haft Zubani Mela, highlighting the importance of celebrating the diverse languages spoken in Pakistan. He emphasized that language is not just a tool for communication but also a key element of identity, tradition, and intellectual discourse. Reflecting on the colonial legacy of language politics, he stressed the need to promote both local and classical languages, which have long been integral to Pakistan’s academic and cultural heritage. The Director expressed pride in the Centre’s commitment to advancing the study of these languages and fostering intellectual exchange through courses in Sanskrit, Hindi, and others. Special comments were delivered by esteemed guests, including Ashok Kumar and Dr. Shahid Rasheed, who reflected on the role of language in shaping collective identities and fostering inclusivity.

A major highlight of the event was the insightful talk by Dr. Khurshid Rizvi on Teaching Classical Languages in Pakistan. Dr. Rizvi emphasized the historical and cultural importance of classical languages such as Sanskrit, Persian, and Arabic, discussing the challenges and opportunities in reviving their study within contemporary educational institutions. His talk was followed by the certificate distribution ceremony for participants of A Short Course on Sanskrit, celebrating their dedication to learning and preserving a foundational classical language.
The event’s literary segment featured a captivating Mushaira, presided over by Dr. Khurshid Rizvi, where renowned poets Hammad Niazi, Fariha Naqvi, and Raz Ehtesham graced the stage alongside student poets. Their recitations, spanning multiple languages spoken in Pakistan, echoed themes of identity, resistance, love, and nostalgia, leaving the audience spellbound with the beauty and power of poetic expression.

The evening culminated in a series of enthralling musical performances that showcased the indigenous sounds of Pakistan. Artists and bands delivered stunning renditions of traditional Sindhi, Balochi, and Gilgit-Baltistan & Chitrali music. Each performance brought forth the unique rhythms and melodies of these regions, celebrating the musical richness that complements Pakistan’s linguistic diversity.

As the event ended, the hosts delivered heartfelt concluding remarks, expressing gratitude to the speakers, performers, and attendees for their enthusiastic participation. The Haft Zubani Mela was not just a celebration but also a reaffirmation of the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity in fostering unity and mutual respect within the country.

The event left a lasting impression on all those in attendance, serving as a reminder that languages are not just tools of communication but living expressions of history, identity, and creativity. The Haft Zubani Mela successfully reinforced the need to cherish and sustain Pakistan’s rich linguistic heritage for future generations.