Karachi set to host 31st International Mushaira

The 31st Sakinaan-e-Shehr-e-Quaid International Mushaira is set to take place on March 28 at Expo Centre Karachi, with organisers promising a memorable literary gathering rooted in the city's long-standing cultural traditions. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Karachi Press Club by chief organiser Mahmood A. Khan, alongside Karachi Press Club President Fazil Jamili, Professor Ejaz Farooqi, and renowned poet Dr Pirzada Qasim . Speaking on the occasion, Fazil Jamili described the upcoming mushaira as an essential part of Karachi's cultural identity. "Such literary events are deeply embedded in the traditions of this city and must continue," he said. Veteran poet Pirzada Qasim Siddiqui reflected on the broader context, noting that ongoing regional conflicts are affecting economies and political landscapes. "Despite the challenges around us, life continues. It is commendable that Mahmood Khan and his team have shown the courage to organise this event," he said. He also appreciated the inclusion of a youth mushaira held a day earlier and suggested that a separate mushaira should also be organised for women. Mahmood A. Khan confirmed that the event has been formally titled "For Peace in the World" in light of current global circumstances. He added that all necessary permissions and no-objection certificates (NOCs) have been obtained from relevant authorities, including the Home Secretary, Commissioner Karachi, and Deputy Commissioner East. According to the organisers, around seven to eight poets from abroad will attend, with participants arriving from countries including the United States, Germany, and the UAE. Khan noted that the event typically attracts between 10,000 to 15,000 attendees and, as in previous years, will remain free of charge. The mushaira will feature prominent poets such as Anwar Shaoor, Mahmood Shaam, Sohail Ahmed, Javed Saba, Khalid Moeen, and Pirzada Salman, among others. The session will be presided over by acclaimed poet Iftikhar Arif. Highlighting changing audience dynamics, Pirzada Qasim remarked that while Pakistan has strong poetic talent, audience engagement has evolved. "There was a time when many poets came from India, and audiences were deeply familiar with their work. Circumstances have changed, but the poets attending this mushaira are respected and well-known in their own countries," he said. Organisers expressed hope that the event will not only celebrate Urdu poetry but also serve as a message of unity and peace amid global uncertainty.