The vibrant cultural scene of Lahore is set to be enriched as the two-day "Dekho Film Festival" officially opens its doors today, January 14. This significant event is a collaborative effort between the Lahore Arts Council Alhamra and the Department of Film at the University of the Punjab, hosted at the iconic Alhamra premises.
A Grand Opening with Distinguished Guests
The festival's inauguration ceremony commenced at 10:00 am, graced by an assembly of eminent personalities from the arts and academia. The chief guests present included Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab, Professor Dr Muhammad Ali, alongside legendary film director Syed Noor, acclaimed filmmaker Shehzad Rafiq, celebrated film star Meera, prominent playwright Amna Mufti, and Executive Director Alhamra, Muhammad Nawaz Gondal. Their presence underscored the festival's importance in Pakistan's creative landscape.
Day One: Dialogues and Diverse Screenings
Following the opening, the first day's agenda was packed with meaningful engagements. After screenings of selected short films, a pivotal panel discussion on "Pakistani Cinema" took place. Moderated by media professional Fareeha Idrees, the panel featured insights from Syed Noor, Shehzad Rafiq, Amna Mufti, and Kanwal Khoosat. The conversation delved into the evolution of the industry, contemporary challenges, and future pathways, offering invaluable guidance to aspiring creators.
The day further offered audiences a rich cinematic diet with continuous screenings of short films, documentaries, and music videos, ensuring a thought-provoking experience for all attendees.
Day Two: Workshops and a Poetic Conclusion
The festival's second day, also starting at 10:00 am, focuses on skill development. A specialized screenwriting workshop will be conducted by noted writer Faseeh Bari Khan, who will impart practical knowledge on storytelling and script craft. Concurrently, in Alhamra Hall No. 3, a dedicated acting workshop led by actor Iftikhar Ahmed Usmani will provide hands-on training in performance techniques.
Film screenings will continue throughout the day, leading to a special session moderated by Maisam Abbas and Sania Ishaq. The closing ceremony will witness Chairman Lahore Arts Council Alhamra, Razi Ahmed, as the chief guest, joined by CEO Discover Pakistan, Dr Qaiser Rafiq, and other dignitaries.
The festival will culminate in a grand Mushaira, celebrating literary and cultural harmony. Presided over by poet Farhat Abbas Shah and hosted by Ahmed Hamad, the event will feature recitations by renowned poets including Ali Zaryoun, Wajid Ameer, and Sofia Baidar.
Commitment to Cultural Empowerment
In a statement, Alhamra Executive Director Muhammad Nawaz Gondal emphasized that the Dekho Film Festival mirrors Alhamra's steadfast commitment to promoting meaningful cinema. The initiative is designed to empower young creative minds and foster cultural dialogue through the powerful medium of film, providing a crucial platform for the next generation of Pakistani storytellers.
