Alhamra Sufi Festival: thousands flock to celebrate spirit of Sufism

LAHORE: The second day of the Alhamra Sufi Festival 2025 unfolded with breathtaking splendor, turning the Lahore Arts Council into a radiant sanctuary of devotion, art, and collective joy at Alhamra Arts Centre, the Mall. As crisp November winds swept through the Alhamra gardens, thousands of visitors stepped into a world illuminated by soft golden light, vibrant installations, and the unmistakable spiritual energy of a festival that has already become the city’s cultural heartbeat.

The festival began with a compelling philosophical session titled “Punjabi Sufi Poetry and Its Message for the Youth.” Distinguished scholars, including Nain Sukh, Dr Sughra Sadaf, Dr Imdad Hussain, and Yousaf Punjabi, offered profound insights into how Sufi poetry remains an eternal guide for a generation seeking meaning, compassion, and clarity in their fast-paced lives. Afzal Sahir moderated the session.

Executive Director Alhamra Mahboob Alam awarded souvenirs to the guest speakers and, in his address, emphasized that Sufism is the cultural expression of Islam, a journey of self-discovery, empathy, and unity. He added that the overwhelming presence of young people at the festival is proof that Pakistan’s youth are eager to reconnect with their spiritual heritage, seeking hope and harmony through the timeless wisdom of the Sufi saints.

Throughout the day, Alhamra’s grounds transformed into a lively cultural corridor. Bookstalls lined the gardens, offering rare Sufi literature, poetry collections, and classical manuscripts. Families browsed handicrafts, food stalls bustled with excitement, and children explored illuminated pathways adorned with spiritual motifs. The festival’s visual ambience, cool winter breeze, glowing lanterns, and melodic chants floating across the open spaces created an atmosphere that visitors described as “soul-soothing” and “unlike anything Lahore has witnessed this season.”

Inside Hall 2, a historic crowd packed the venue to witness the soulful Sufi Night led by the renowned vocalist Tehseen Sakina. Her mesmerizing renditions, supported by her ensemble, brought audiences to their feet as echoes of appreciation filled the hall. Her voice, rich with tradition and longing, carried the essence of centuries-old devotion, leaving listeners spellbound.

As the evening deepened, the festival grounds came alive once again with qawwali at the Hall 2 podium, where performers ignited the audience with rhythm, power, and spiritual ecstasy. Every beat of the dhol and every crescendo of the harmonium drew thunderous applause, reaffirming that Sufi music remains the emotional language of the people of Pakistan.

The Alhamra Sufi Festival has emerged not just as an event but as a cultural movement, rekindling the values of love, tolerance, and togetherness. With an unprecedented number of attendees on its second day, the festival continues to win hearts, bridging generations and offering thousands an unforgettable experience where art meets soul.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025