The second day of the Arts Council of Pakistan’s (ACP) Karachi “Arts Alumni Festival 2025” was dedicated to the martyrs of Indian aggression.

The Arts Council organised a three-day “Arts Alumni Festival 2025” in Karachi, and on the second day, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah graced the event with his special presence.

He was warmly received by the ACP President Muhammad Ahmed Shah. The programme commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem, which was observed with great respect by the audience as they stood in unity.

The festival paid rich tribute to the martyrs of the Pakistan-India conflict, celebrating the bravery and success of the Pakistani armed forces.

Speaking at the event, CM Murad congratulated all the performers and said, “I am grateful to Ahmed Shah for inviting me to this inspiring festival.” “The performances today were truly remarkable. Our poets and artists delivered outstanding tributes.”

He further added, “I appreciate the Arts Council for including a segment in this festival that honors the armed forces and martyrs. Our entire nation united during the India-Pakistan war. While we often heard about the spirit of 1965, we witnessed that same spirit once again in 2025. On May 7, Pakistan was attacked at four different locations, resulting in the tragic loss of innocent children. The Pakistan Air Force responded immediately, downing five Indian aircraft, including a Rafale. India also deployed Israeli drones. When Pakistan was attacked again on May 10, Operation ‘Bunyan Mursoos’ was launched.”

Commenting on the Pehlgam incident, he stated: “It was a calculated move. Pakistan was the first to condemn it, whereas India has never condemned any such incident here. Their agenda was something else.

“Our armed forces, government, and media played a commendable role. Pakistan’s military has made it clear that any adventurism from India will receive a strong response. Our civilians stood shoulder to shoulder with the forces. Let’s stop fighting amongst ourselves—we have many enemies. Every child in Pakistan is ready to defend the nation.”

ACP President Ahmed Shah emphasised: “This three-day Arts Alumni Festival showcases the talent of our graduates. We dedicate this festival to our martyrs. In the recent conflict, our brave army defeated an enemy ten times larger. Back in the 1965 war, most of you weren’t even born. Creative individuals lead from the front—our musicians and singers were leading even then.”

The event also featured a patriotic poetic recitation by renowned poetess Ambreen Haseeb Ambar. Esteemed poets Anwar Shaoor, Fatima Hasan, and Farasat Rizvi presented powerful poetry depicting the spirit of Operation Bunyan Mursoos. Popular singer Muhammad Zubair captivated the audience with his voice, and Kamran Sago stirred national pride with a passionate patriotic song.

Day two also included three theatre plays: “Azaadi Ek Jung”, “Monica & A Tale of Two Betrayed”, and “Salgirah.”

In addition to performances, the festival offered a Fine Art and Music Masterclass and a panel discussion titled “AI, the Author, and Authenticity: Who’s Really Making the Music?” A Bharatanatyam dance workshop, classical music performance, and concert paid tribute to traditional Pakistani folk music. In the lobby area, visitors enjoyed block and screen printing exhibits and various food stalls.