The curtains came down on the Regional Drama Festival at the Punjab Council of the Arts, Rawalpindi, with a vibrant award ceremony celebrating artistic expression and cultural storytelling. The festival, which aimed to revive the tradition of family theatre and provide meaningful entertainment, brought together a diverse mix of theatrical talent.
Over the course of the event, 13 drama groups took the stage, each presenting thought-provoking performances based on social and cultural themes. Their plays reflected pressing societal issues, traditional values, and everyday human experiences — all brought to life with creativity and emotion.
The closing ceremony was graced by Malik Iftikhar Ahmed, Parliamentary Secretary for Auqaf and Religious Affairs, Government of Punjab, who served as the chief guest. He distributed certificates and shields among actors, directors, and members of the Drama Scrutiny Committee, recognizing their contributions to the festival.
In his remarks, Malik Iftikhar lauded the performers as cultural ambassadors, highlighting the vital role of artists in preserving heritage and shaping national identity. “Our artists are national assets,” he said, “who keep the spirit of Pakistani culture alive and earn recognition through their artistic excellence.”
The event drew an esteemed audience that included Naheed Manzoor, the founding figure of the Arts Council, celebrated poet Dr. Afshan, former Arts Council Director Chaudhry Waqar Ahmed, PTV News Producer Malik Waqar, and officials from the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA). Writers, poets, and artists from across Rawalpindi and Islamabad were also in attendance, adding to the festival’s creative spirit.
Director of the Punjab Council of the Arts, Muhammad Shakoor, expressed his gratitude to all participants and attendees. He emphasized the council’s ongoing commitment to promoting theatre and supporting cultural initiatives that connect communities and elevate public discourse through the arts.
The festival concluded not just with awards, but with a renewed sense of purpose — reaffirming theatre’s role as a powerful platform for storytelling, reflection, and unity in Pakistan’s cultural landscape.
