"We have started accepting our heritage."
The Karachi Literature Festival unfolded with packed halls as audiences engaged deeply across diverse intellectual and cultural conversations.
More than 45 sessions took place, spanning discussions on literature, economy, history, fashion, cinema, publishing, and contemporary cultural identity.
Literary dialogues remained a core attraction, complemented by film screenings, book launches, and interactive panels drawing participants from varied backgrounds.
One of the most anticipated sessions focused on the Pakistan economy, titled ‘Fixing the Fundamentals Pakistan Economic Reset,’ featuring prominent policymakers and economists.
Former federal ministers Asad Umar and Miftah Ismail joined economist Dr Ishrat Husain to examine economic challenges and recovery pathways.
The panel emphasised governance reforms, policy consistency, and long-term planning as crucial steps toward stabilising Pakistan’s economic framework.
Moderated by Muhammad Azfar Ahsan, the discussion highlighted structural reforms as essential for restoring investor confidence and sustainable growth.
Fashion emerged as another major theme, signalling the festival’s expanding scope beyond traditional literary discourse.
Designer Ziad Bashir, fashion veteran Rizwan Beyg, and model Mushk Kaleem discussed Pakistan’s evolving fashion identity in the digital age.
Model Erica Robin underscored the importance of such platforms for contextualising fashion within culture.
She said: “I feel very good at KLF. Discussions on fashion are very rare, and they should be held regularly so people can understand the true essence of fashion and how we can improve.”
Robin added that Pakistan fashion industry has matured significantly and now stands ready for broader global recognition.
She explained: “In the last two to three years, we have started accepting our heritage and where we come from.
“When we promote our culture, it is beautiful, and the world is now seeing it.”
Model Mushk Kaleem echoed similar sentiments, noting fashion role in strengthening Pakistan soft image internationally.
She said:“Karachi Literature Festival has given space to fashion, which is very important because the fashion industry plays a significant role in Pakistan soft image.”
Kaleem reflected on post pandemic recovery, explaining that the industry had gradually regained momentum after significant disruptions.
She observed: “After Covid, the fashion industry had to hit a reset button.
“Now we are returning to fashion shows and platforms for models.”
Highlighting systemic challenges, Kaleem stressed the urgent need for government support and structured funding.
She remarked: “There is a cultural difference, but brands like Gul Ahmed, Alkaram and Khaadi still connect with people culturally.”
The festival mushaira proved equally captivating, presided over by poet Iftikhar Arif and moderated by Naseera Zuberi.
Renowned poets including Kishwar Naheed, Khurshid Rizvi, and Shahida Hasan mesmerised audiences with powerful recitations.
Thunderous applause filled the hall repeatedly, reflecting deep appreciation for poetic expression and literary heritage.
Large crowds continued attending sessions throughout the day, underscoring Karachi Literature Festival enduring public appeal.
The second day concluded with a screening of the Pakistani film Chakkar.
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