ISLAMABAD, Aug 12: To celebrate the Independence day of Pakistan, Lok Virsa here Wednesday kicked off its festivity. Keeping the folk traditions alive with the flavor of Independence celebrations, the Artisans-at-work exhibition colored the picturesque grounds of Lok Virsa with a wide collection of traditional art and crafts featuring most outstanding master artisans.
These artisans not only demonstrated their skills but also acquaint youth and students about their respective crafts like Zari work, Doll Making, Stone carving, Swati Shawl, Kashmiri Embroidery, Pottery, Namda and Gabba, Wood Carving, wax printing, Multani embroidery and others.
All of these master artisans are the custodians of rich traditional crafts while Lok Virsa aspires to promote all sorts of crafts from every part of country to revive crafts and folk heritage.
Started with this exhibition and renowned Dholies from Punjab, the Independence Day programmes of the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage, Lok Virsa will focus on Folk music performances at open air theater, Photographic exhibition carrying rare photos of Quaid-e-Azam, Pakistan resolution and screening of film on Pakistan Movement by the Department of Films and Publications as major features of the day.
The purpose of presenting these programmes is to create awareness among the young generation about the contributions of the stalwarts of freedom movement.
?It is an attempt to remind all cross sections of society about the value of freedom and sacrifices made by our forefathers,? Executive Director Lok Virsa, Khalid Javaid told APP.
The Heritage Museum will remain open to public from 10.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m for local and foreign visitors.
The folk music concert with renowned folk artists and performers like Hassan Pasha, Pop Group, Rukhsana Murtaza and accompaniment folk singer Qurban Niazi and Muhammad Kram will perform on August 14.
On August 14, the programmes will start with a flag hoisting ceremony while an exotic ?Craft Bazaar? with a focus on food stalls as part of the festivities.
Lok Virsa profusely decorated its premises with banners, buntings, streamers for all the days of the festival.
In addition to these day long activities, special programmes for children will be presented between August 14 to 16 including Magic illusion show, Live puppet show, International juggling items, Cartoon characters with flag, Tallman show, Face painting, Musical entertainment activities, Laughter show, Stage comics, Patriotic speeches, Thematic tableau, Singing competition, Kids Dance show and other attractions.
