KARACHI: The Oxford University Press Pakistan (OUPP) announced its plans for the 16th Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) during a press conference held at a local hotel. The festival, with the theme “Narratives from the Soil,” will take place from February 7 to 9, 2025.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed his support for the festival, emphasizing its role in celebrating Karachi’s vibrant culture and ideas. He stated, “As the Chief Minister of Sindh, I am delighted to support this platform that fosters creativity, learning, and dialogue among diverse voices across our province.”
Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab also praised the KLF, highlighting its role in promoting knowledge, literature, and culture, while enhancing Karachi’s image. He added, “KLF gives the youth an opportunity to connect with their ancestors’ language, traditions, and culture.”
Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director of OUPP, shared his thoughts on the upcoming event, saying, “This year’s theme, ‘Narratives from the Soil,’ reflects the deep connection between storytelling and our roots. Literature mirrors our history, identity, and cultural evolution, preserving the voices that define our collective consciousness.”
The festival will feature prominent authors, poets, thinkers, and changemakers engaging in essential conversations around new narratives, social paradigms, and cultural recognition.
Special guests will include Nicolas Galey, Ambassador of France, Scott Urbom, US Consul General Karachi, Mike Dawson, Head of the British Deputy High Commission, Karachi, and others.
The KLF-Getz Pharma Book Awards will celebrate literary excellence, with nominees including works like The Election by Omar Shahid Hamid, The Monsoon War by Bina Shah, Saat Janam by Shafqat Naghmi, and Koh-e-Malaal by Shariq Saeed.
The festival promises to provide an immersive experience with book launches, poetry recitations, cultural performances, and discussions on contemporary issues, along with a dedicated Youth Pavilion showcasing drama, music, and storytelling.
