The 17th International Urdu Conference concluded in Karachi on Sunday, with a qawwali performance and famous playwright Anwar Maqsood’s address.

The closing ceremony of the International Urdu Festival took place at the YMCA Ground where the stage was graced by a vibrant gathering of writers, poets, and artists.

The four-day event showcased a variety of performances and readings, highlighting the rich heritage of the Urdu language and its artistic expressions. Attendants enjoyed an engaging programme that emphasized the importance of literature and the arts in fostering community and cultural pride. The festival concluded on a high note, leaving participants inspired and eager for future gatherings.

The conference featured sessions on literary, cultural, and economic topics. Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori attended the closing ceremony while renowned Qawwali artists Fareed Ayaz and Abu Muhammad captivated the audience with their soulful Sufi performances.

Throughout the conference, there was a strong emphasis on regional languages, as well as discussions on ghazal, poetry, and prose, addressing contemporary issues. On the final day, 18 sessions were held, alongside the launch of nine new books.

Sessions covered various themes, including Urdu fiction, the progressive movement, and the economic significance of Karachi, as well as artificial intelligence. Federal Minister for Education Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and Provincial Minister for Education Sardar Shah discussed educational issues.

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The international poetry session featured young writers and poets who enchanted the audience with their verses.

Versatile actress Bushra Ansari shared her stories and entertained attendees with her singing while a lively conversation between actor Imran Ashraf and Bushra Ansari added colour to the gathering.