By Saeed Yousafzai
ISLAMABAD – Secretary of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Archaeology & Museums Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Dr. Abdul Samad, stated that the provinceโs artisans are beautifully presenting their cultural heritage and craftsmanship at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pavilion during the Lok Mela. He added that the festival brings together diverse cultural colours from across the country.
He expressed these views at the inauguration ceremony of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pavilion, set up by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority, during the 10-day cultural Lok Mela organized by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) under the National Heritage and Culture Division. He was accompanied by Director Culture Ajmal Khan, Director Admin & Finance Umar Arshad Khan, Deputy Director Events Sanam Bashir, and other notable personalities.
On the occasion, Secretary Tourism Dr. Abdul Samad thoroughly visited all the stalls and met with the artisans. He said that the Tourism Department and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority are developing new programs for the provinceโs artisans, which will enable them to participate in cultural festivals held in other cities of the country and promote their craft and culture.
He further shared that a historic โJashan-e-Khyberโ festival will soon be organized in Peshawar, where artisans as well as artists will be provided opportunities to showcase their talents.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pavilion features various stalls set up by artists, craftsmen, artisans, and culture enthusiasts from the province. More than 30 stalls displaying handicrafts and cultural items have been arranged, including Mosaic Art, Metalwork, Swati Shawls, Mughal Art, Lacquer Art, Handicrafts, Chitrali items, products made by prisoners of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Jail Department, items crafted by persons with disabilities, Wood Art, Silk Work, Hand-made Traditional Bags, Charsadda Chappal, Kundi Work, Jinnah Caps, Handicrafts, and Pottery. Traditional provincial foods are also being served, including Penda Sobat, Chapli Kebab, Pulao, Tikka Boti, Chicken Boti, and more.
