The Oxford University Press Pakistan (OUPP) announced details today for the 16th annual Karachi Literature Festival (KLF), a three-day event themed “Narratives from the Soil” running from February 7th to 9th, 2025. The festival, a major event on Pakistan’s cultural calendar, will feature a diverse program of discussions, performances, and book launches.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed his support for the festival, highlighting its role in celebrating Karachi’s culture and fostering dialogue. Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the KLF’s contribution to promoting knowledge and enhancing the city’s image, particularly its role in connecting youth with their cultural heritage. The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) pledged its full support for the event’s organization.

Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director of OUPP, described the “Narratives from the Soil” theme as reflecting the deep connection between storytelling and Pakistani roots. He highlighted literature’s role in preserving history, identity, and cultural evolution.

This year’s KLF boasts an impressive lineup of speakers, including prominent authors, poets, and thinkers such as Arfa Sayeda Zehra, F.S. Aijazuddin, Iftikhar Arif, Kamila Shamsie, Mishal Husain, and Asghar Nadeem Syed. International guests include the French Ambassador, the US Consul General in Karachi, and representatives from the British Deputy High Commission and the British Council.

The festival will also feature the KLF-Getz Pharma Book Awards, recognizing literary excellence in English and Urdu fiction and poetry. Nominees for the awards were announced across several categories.

The program includes a wide range of events, from discussions on contemporary issues and political activism to cultural performances, poetry recitations, movie screenings, and a dedicated Youth Pavilion. A mushaira, qawwali performances, and a large book fair will also be featured. Mayor Murtaza Wahab will participate in a special session, “Katcheri with the Mayor,” and former Minister of State Muhammad Azfar Ahsan will discuss Pakistan’s business climate. Senator Sherry Rehman will participate in a discussion on friendship and political activism.

With its diverse program, the KLF promises a rich and engaging experience for attendees.