STORY: Lok Mela festival offers journey to Pakistan's cultural heritage
SHOOTING TIME: Nov. 18, 2024
DATELINE: Nov. 21, 2024
LENGTH: 00:01:13
LOCATION: Islamabad
CATEGORY: CULTURE

SHOTLIST:
1. various of the Lok Mela festival
2. SOUNDBITE (English): ABDUS WAZIR, Visitor
3. various of the Lok Mela festival

STORYLINE:

Artists in vibrant attire played rhythmic beats on traditional instruments at an annual folk festival, sparking spontaneous dance among attendees. The age-old melodies narrated stories that have been passed down through generations, creating an immersive cultural experience.

The annual festival, known as Lok Mela, was held in the Pakistani capital Islamabad from Nov. 8 to last Sunday. The 10-day event provided a platform for artists across the country to present their works and performances.

Visitors thronged the festival, exploring diverse cultural exhibits that showcased traditional crafts, local delicacies, and mesmerizing performances.

SOUNDBITE (English): ABDUS WAZIR, Visitor
"This mela festival was held every year in the capital of Pakistan. All the provinces, they are representing their culture, their handicrafts and other things. And the purpose of this mela is to show the soft image of Pakistan to the world. And similarly, it can boost up our economy as well."

Abdul Hameed, one of the organizers of the event, told Xinhua that more than 1 million visitors came to enjoy the festival.

Hameed highlighted that over 500 stalls were installed including international representations from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, and Indonesia. All stalls were provided free of charge to encourage participation.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Islamabad.
(XHTV)