A packed musical night and ‘Kamli’ discussion mark the festival’s final stretch
KARACHI:
The 30th day of the 39-day World Culture Festival at the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, concluded with Mega Musical Concert 3.0 and a session with creators of film Kamli. The concert marked Meesha Shafi’s return to Karachi’s stage after a long time.
“You have made my heart happy,” Meesha announced to the crowd during her performance.“I am performing in Karachi after many years, and it’s an absolute pleasure to be here and party with you all.” She added that such festivals are a “much-needed and wonderful initiative.”
The concert included several other performances featuring Faris Shafi, Meesha Shafi, Sahib Pashazade from Azerbaijan, Darabu, and Pakistan’s emerging artists Gizri and Junoon Elia Lawn packing the crowd to its capacity.
Read more: ‘World Culture Festival 2025’ set to kick off with the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi
Earlier in the day, a discussion on Pakistani film Kamli, released in 2022, was held with director Sarmad Khoosat and writer Dr. Umair Ahmed in the panel. Arts Council President Muhammad Ahmed Shah and Noor-ul-Huda Shah attended the session too.
Sarmad expressed gratitude for the audience’s appreciation of the film, saying that he is happy people connected with it. “Art never divides; it brings us together and this festival is proof of that,” he added.
He reflected on Pakistan’s cinematic past, noting that cinema was once a thriving cultural force and stressed the importance of experimentation and music in storytelling. “When you talk about culture and heritage, music becomes essential,” he said. Noting that he took the ownership of including six songs for Kamli.
The director discussed the themes of migration and relationships. Stating that no one leaves their home without a reason. He believes decline happens because of relationships or circumstances. During the discussion, he added that cinema should move people.
Lastly, Sarmad mentioned his preference for personally messaging close friends rather than making public social-media posts. Announcing the release of another project in 2026 that he hopes to bring before the audience in the same lowkey manner.
