The 16th Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) concluded with a shout-out for upholding and endorsing the “narratives from the soil” as voices of people across the landscape.

The three-day event featured panel sessions on various topics, where experts shared their insights and suggestions for bringing improvement in society.

KLF’s final day also celebrated the launch of 14 more books, including poems. A special launch of ‘Journey Through Chaos’ featured a panel discussion with Saeed Ghani, Mazhar Abbas, Mushahid Hussain Syed, and Wusatullah Khan, moderated by Ahmed Shah.

The closing ceremony featured notable speakers including former senator Khushbakht Shujaat and journalist Mishal Husain.

While emphasising the importance of preserving cultural stories and heritage, Hussain stated: “Art and literature define and develop a society, and KLF is one of the best conduits of social progress.”

The former senator reiterated the need for public and private partnerships to make such events get optimal space in Karachi. Karachi needs to empower such platforms for true democratic principles to strengthen.“

The day’s finale was the traditional Qawwali performance by the maestros Ustad Farid Ayaz and Ustad Abu Muhammad.