The Lahore Arts Council Alhamra is set to host the 14th edition of the Lahore Literary Festival (LLF) from February 6 to 8.
Recognised as one of the most prominent platforms for literature, culture and civilisational dialogue, the festival will bring together distinguished intellectuals, writers, scholars and thinkers from Pakistan and across the world.
This year, the Lahore Literary Festival places special emphasis on Pakistan’s collective cultural identity, the rich traditions of Punjab, regional languages, national consciousness and enduring civilisational values. A wide range of sessions will explore literature, history, society, politics, contemporary global and regional affairs, freedom of expression, democratic values, social transformation and critical intellectual discourse.
Alongside thought-provoking discussions, the festival will celebrate diverse forms of creative expression, including poetry, fiction, drama, theatre, visual arts, painting, calligraphy, music, folk traditions and other cultural forms. These expressions will be presented in a public and civilisational context, reinforcing the connection between literature, the arts, everyday life and collective social awareness.
Renowned national and international participants include Robin Lane Fox, Saif Islam from Dhaka, Kamila Shamsie, Asghar Nadeem Syed, Salima Ikram from Cairo, Ghazi Taimoor, Geoff Dyer, Mohsin Hamid, Saeed Mehdi, Amin Gulgee and Audrey Truschke. These eminent scholars, researchers and thinkers hold distinguished positions in their respective fields, and their presence is expected further to enrich the festival’s intellectual and academic stature.
Chairman of the Lahore Arts Council, Alhamra, Razi Ahmed, stated that the Lahore Literary Festival is a powerful medium for highlighting cultural identity, languages, and civilizational heritage. He emphasized that Alhamra has consistently played a pivotal role in promoting literature and culture at both the national and international levels.
Executive Director of the Lahore Arts Council Alhamra, Muhammad Nawaz Gondal, said that the Lahore Literary Festival is a unique platform where literature and culture are presented in proximity to life itself. He noted that the festival offers youth, students and the general public a valuable opportunity to reconnect with their cultural roots and actively participate in meaningful intellectual dialogue.
He further added that under the CM Initiative, various development and beautification projects are currently underway at Alhamra. Despite these ongoing efforts, the administration and the entire Alhamra team are working together to ensure a welcoming, vibrant and conducive environment for literary and cultural festivals.
During the three-day Lahore Literary Festival, Alhamra will transform into a dynamic cultural hub where dialogue, creativity and tradition will harmoniously converge.