KP’s Vibrant Heritage Steals the Spotlight at Lok Mela Islamabad
The 10-day cultural festival, which began on 7 November and will continue until 16 November, is being celebrated under the theme “Diversity in Unity, Celebrating Folk Heritage” to promote national harmony and cultural cohesion.
By Saeed Yousafzai
ISLAMABAD – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s vibrant culture is shining brightly at the ongoing Lok Mela in Islamabad, where the province has emerged as a key highlight of this 10-day cultural celebration organised by the National Heritage and Culture Division at Lok Virsa. Held under the theme “Diversity in Unity – Celebrating Folk Heritage,” the festival is attracting large crowds eager to experience Pakistan’s cultural harmony and shared heritage. 
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority has set up an eye-catching KP pavilion that beautifully reflects the province’s rich traditions, artistic brilliance, and warm cultural spirit. With more than 30 stalls showcasing a diverse range of crafts, the pavilion offers visitors an immersive journey through KP’s heritage, featuring mosaic art, Swat’s famous Salampur shawls, Mughal-style artwork, Chitrali cultural items, pottery, lacquer art, Jinnah caps, Charsadda chappal, woodwork, Kundi art, silk products and more. 
Special attention has been drawn to the unique handmade items crafted by inmates of the KP Prisons Department as well as artefacts produced by artisans with disabilities, earning admiration for promoting inclusivity and empowerment. Adding to the attraction is the irresistible aroma of traditional Pashtun cuisine, with festival-goers enjoying authentic dishes such as chapli kebab, pulao, tikka boti, chicken boti, and the beloved painda sobat, which together offer a flavourful taste of the province’s culinary heritage. 
Throughout the festival, the KP pavilion has remained a lively cultural hub with dazzling performances including Khattak dance, Kalasha dance, and soulful rabab music that continue to energise and captivate audiences. A traditional Pashtun hujra setup, a Qissa Khwani-inspired tea corner, and displays of traditional clothing, music and folk elements further deepen the cultural experience for visitors. Representing all provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Lok Mela stands as a powerful symbol of Pakistan’s cultural diversity and unity — and among these vibrant displays, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s pavilion continues to shine as one of the most compelling showcases of heritage, art, and tradition.
