Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has unveiled a plan to revive Lahore as the hub of Pakistan’s film industry.
Recognizing the challenges facing artists, the chief minister established a 29-member steering committee tasked with revitalizing the film sector and addressing the needs of the artistic community.
The committee’s goals include creating a comprehensive welfare program offering health insurance, social security, and a dedicated housing society for artists. Furthermore, plans are underway to establish creative centres across Punjab to foster artistic expression and cultural development. The initiative also envisions expanding the number of cinemas in the province and exploring incentives to support the industry.
The Lahore Literary Festival (LLF) was recently celebrated for its cultural impact at the 2024 International Culture Festival in Karachi. Razi Ahmed, Chairman of Alhamra, accepted a commemorative souvenir on behalf of the LLF, recognizing it as a key ambassador of Pakistan’s cultural identity globally. He dedicated this honor to the writers, poets, and artists whose efforts promote the country’s cultural richness on the world stage.
In observance of Kashmir Black Day, the Lahore Arts Council, Alhamra, organized events to highlight the resilience of Kashmiris. The program included an art exhibition honoring Kashmir’s cultural struggle and a solidarity walk. Tahir Raza Hamdani, Secretary of Information and Culture, emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by the Kashmiri people.
Alhamra’s Executive Director, Sarah Rasheed, reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to raising awareness of Kashmiri culture and amplifying their voices globally.
In the music world, renowned singer Ali Zafar captivated fans with his new song “Fade,” featuring his wife, Ayesha Fazli, in the video. The song explores the emotional and mental toll of the entertainment industry on artists.
Zafar also made history with a record-breaking concert in Saudi Arabia, performing for over 100,000 people at Riyadh’s Al-Suwaidi Park as part of the Riyadh Season. His performance highlighted the strengthening cultural ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
However, the entertainment world also saw disturbing reports of domestic violence involving actress Nargis, who was allegedly assaulted by her husband. Nargis, now a beauty salon owner after retiring from acting, received support from Hina Pervaiz Butt, Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority, who assured her of justice.
Meanwhile, actress Nigaar Chaudhry held a press conference to accuse actress Nargis and her husband of framing her husband on false drug charges in retaliation for her refusal to comply with certain social expectations. Chaudhry has called on Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar to ensure justice and the return of her seized property.
Lastly, a condolence reference was held at Alhamra in memory of veteran actor Abid Kashmiri, organized by the CJFP Oriental Welfare Society. The event was attended by notable artists who praised Kashmiri’s dedication and enduring legacy in the Pakistani film industry.
