RAWALPINDI: University students were applauded for their portrayal of the Punjabi folk tale ‘Heer Ranjha’ at the Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) on Wednesday.

Wearing traditional dresses, the performers presented various aspects of life in Punjab’s rural and urban areas. They also performed on folk songs.

The function was arranged by the RAC to promote the culture of Punjab and to encourage young talent of the Potohar region. Former MNA Nadeem Afzal Chan was the chief quest on the occasion.

Besides enacting the Punjabi folk tale ‘Heer Ranjha’, students also sang verses of Sufi poets. Kalam of Mian Muhammad Bux, Bulhey Shah, Baba Fareed and other saints of Punjab were presented besides traditional songs popular during marriages.

In the end, all performers performed the traditional Luddi dance. Local artist Samina Khan sang national songs to pay tributes to the martyrs of Operation Zarb-i-Azb.

Speaking on the occasion, former MNA Nadeem Afzal Chan said loving one’s culture was tantamount to loving the country.

He appreciated the performance of the students and said it was the best way to inform people about the rich culture of Punjab. He said the poetry of Sufi saints preached love, peace and harmony.

Mr Chan said cultural shows promoted the soft image of the country, adding that the country was passing through a critical time in its history and citizens should unite to flush out terrorism from the country.

RAC Resident Director Waqar Ahmed said cultural heritage of all provinces was like a bouquet and our foremost recognition was being Pakistani.

He said the RAC provided platform to people from all provinces to present their culture without any discrimination.

Published in Dawn, May 21st, 2015

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