Islamabad – In a landmark leap for cultural diplomacy, Pakistan and Tajikistan are set to host a historic Cultural Festival at Lok Virsa in Islamabad on December 19‑20, bringing their rich traditions, art, music, dance, and cuisine into one vibrant celebration. The Pakistan‑Tajikistan Cultural Festival, a first of its kind, reflects deepening ties and shared heritage between the two countries.
Organized by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa), in collaboration with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) and the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture, the two‑day event promises an immersive showcase of folk culture and artistic traditions. Officials say the festival aims to promote people‑to-people connections and strengthen bilateral relations long rooted in history.
The festival grounds will feature live artisan demonstrations, where master craftspeople from both nations will display traditional embroidery, pottery, and woodwork. Music and dance performances will run throughout both days with energetic showcases of classical and folk traditions.
Visitors can also savor authentic delicacies from Pakistan and Tajikistan. Similar to the Pakistani Food Festival held in Dushanbe earlier this year, where local dishes won hearts with flavors of karahi, chapli kebab, and jalebi, culinary exchange is expected to be a highlight of the Islamabad event.
Cultural seminars and panel discussions will explore shared histories and artistic expressions. Delegates from both capitals have underscored the importance of celebrating cultural heritage as a bridge between peoples. In fact, initiatives like Ayla Musharraf’s journey in architecture and culture highlight how art and heritage continue to shape narratives across South and Central Asia, underlining the relevance of such festivals today.
As Islamabad prepares for this cultural rendezvous, the Pakistan‑Tajikistan Cultural Festival is poised to leave lasting impressions of friendship, artistic unity, and shared heritage.
