LAHORE: The two-day “Dekho Film Festival” commenced with enthusiasm and grandeur at the Lahore Arts Council Alhamra. Jointly organised by Alhamra and the Department of Film and Broadcasting, University of the Punjab, the festival celebrates cinema, youth creativity and meaningful cultural discourse.
The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures from the film and academic communities, including legendary film director Syed Noor, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab Professor Dr Muhammad Ali Shah, renowned film director Rafiq Shehzad, acclaimed playwright Amna Mufti, senior producer Safdar Malik and other distinguished guests. In her opening remarks, Lubna Zaheer of the Department of Film and Broadcasting, University of the Punjab, welcomed the participants and acknowledged the wholehearted support and cooperation of Executive Director Lahore Arts Council Alhamra Muhammad Nawaz Gondal in making the festival possible.
Addressing the gathering, veteran filmmaker Syed Noor announced his full support for emerging talent and declared a cash award of Rs200,000 for a future participant securing a prominent position at the festival.
He stressed that such festivals are vital for nurturing young talent and underscored the importance of academic engagement with film studies at the university level.
Executive Director Alhamra Muhammad Nawaz Gondal said the festival would serve as a strong foundation for polishing and promoting young talent, reaffirming Alhamra’s commitment to empowering creative youth and strengthening Pakistan’s cinematic future.
Punjab University VC Professor Dr Muhammad Ali Shah appreciated Syed Noor’s initiative and announced that the award would be named the “Syed Noor Award.” He highlighted the need for such constructive efforts and commended Dr Lubna Zaheer and her team for their dedication and vision.
Renowned playwright Amna Mufti advised young creatives to always stand by truth, noting that writing leaves a timeless impact across generations. Chairman Pakistan Film Producers Association and film director Rafiq Shehzad remarked that investing in youth was an investment in the nation’s future.
On the first day, music performances and a special session on Pakistani cinema were also held, highlighting the historical journey of the national film industry. Participants were informed that Pakistani cinema began in 1948 with “Teri Yaad,” reached its golden era in the 1960s and 1970s, and is now entering a new phase marked by fresh narratives and renewed creative energy.
Film screenings on the opening day attracted a large audience and received an encouraging response. Organisers shared that more than 150 films were submitted for the competitive segment, with 30 selected for screening. Screenings will continue on the second and concluding day, followed by a Mushaira, adding a blend of cinema, literature and culture to the event.
The vibrant opening of the Dekho Film Festival reaffirmed Alhamra’s role as a leading cultural platform fostering creativity, dialogue and the future of Pakistani cinema.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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