Bangladeshi artistes are taking the stage in Pakistan after 18 years

The World Culture Festival is underway at the Pakistan Arts Council, Karachi, where artists from more than 140 countries showcase their creative traditions. But it is the return of Bangladeshi artists to Pakistan after 18 years that has attracted particular attention.

This marks a renewed chapter in cultural exchanges between the two countries. Renowned Bangladeshi singer Shireen Jawad mesmerized the audience with her entertaining performance, while visual artist Neharika highlighted the heritage, femininity and traditional motifs of Bangladesh through her striking artworks displayed at the festival.

For Shireen Jawad, this is her first visit to Pakistan, but she says it didn’t feel like a foreigner. “When I landed at the airport, I felt like I was in my own country,” he said. “The people here are incredibly warm, kind and helpful. Meeting artists from different nations and sharing cultures and experiences was an unforgettable trip.”

Jawad explained that although she initially intended to perform a Sufi piece, she ended up singing one of her Bengali songs at the suggestion of the organisers. “I did my track ‘Soulful and Spiritual’ from my album ‘Punjabi Wala’, along with ‘Mathawali’, a romantic composition revolving around love, the moon and emotional reflection.”

Jawad described the moment as symbolic – a reunion that was long overdue. “I wonder why it took 18 years,” he said. “But what matters is that it’s happening now. Art has brought Pakistan and Bangladesh together again on one platform and that’s powerful.”

He also noted the clear cultural similarities: “Pakistan feels very close to Bangladesh. The people are warm, expressive and welcoming. The energy of the audience here has been incredible,” he said.

Bangladesh Art Week founder Neharika Mumtaz said the invitation from the Arts Council was a welcome opportunity. “We have always believed in cultural exchange. This festival allows us to showcase the creative diversity of Bangladesh to the Pakistani audience.”

Festival organizers have confirmed that more Bangladeshi artists – including Suborna Morsheda, Faria Chowdhury, Shambhu Acharya and Bubly Barna – will perform in the coming days, representing music, dance and visual arts.

For many participants, this cultural reunion is a reminder of the power of art to create dialogue, bridge differences and bring people closer together in ways that diplomacy often cannot. The visit follows Pakistani designers recently showing their work in Dhaka – signaling that this cultural bridge is now being developed on both sides.

The festival in Karachi continues to dazzle audiences with an exciting mix of global and local art, capturing the audience’s attention from the very first act and immersing them in a vibrant celebration of music, theater and dance – all while showcasing the unifying power of art and creativity.

In every corner of the Technical Council, from the enchanting melodies of the opera to the dynamic energy of the local performances, the festival has become a vibrant celebration of artistic expression.

Each act, as Arts Council President Ahmed Shah noted, speaking to a local news channel, echoed the common humanity that connects people across borders. “The event is a testament to art’s ability to bridge gaps, inspire understanding and foster a sense of unity in a world enriched by diversity.”

The festival also showcased the vibrant creativity of Pakistan’s theater scene with the riveting play ‘Flirts’, which Shah said enthralled the audience with its sharp wit, compelling story and flawless performances.

“Representatives from all over the world are participating to celebrate the beautiful fusion of cultures,” he said, emphasizing the event’s global reach. He added that the festival, which brings together artists from various corners of the world, serves as a powerful platform for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Shah noted that it also reflects the Arts Council’s continued commitment to promoting cultural diversity and strengthening international connections through the universal language of art, stressing that such events not only entertain but also educate and inspire, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the diversity that shapes our shared world.

“This festival is more than just a celebration of art; it’s a reminder that through creativity, we can bridge differences and bring people together,” he said. As the festival continues, it promises to leave a lasting impact on Karachi’s cultural scene while fostering connections that extend far beyond the stage.

By entering from the APP