Gwadar played host to the vibrant four-day “Gwadar Kitab Mela 2025”, bringing together writers, scholars, and literary enthusiasts from Balochistan and beyond. The festival, a dynamic fusion of literature, art, and intellectual discourse, featured thought-provoking debates, book launches, poetry recitations, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage and intellectual engagement. The festival thrived as a platform for open dialogue, addressing key issues such as the history of the Makran Coast and climate challenges in Gwadar.

Female participation was a notable highlight, with dedicated sessions amplifying women’s voices in theater and discussions.  Traditional music and short film screenings further enriched the experience, making the festival a true celebration of knowledge and artistic expression.   The festival commenced on Thursday with eight diverse events, including the opening ceremony, a tabloid theatre performance, book launches, a panel on environmental challenges, and short film screenings.

The second day featured the “Balochi-Urdu Poetry Symposium (Mushaira)”, held outdoors at GDA Padizar Park, and “Khawateen Time”, which featured a theater performance and an engaging discussion.  Discussions were also organized on books, including “Yat Geri Dewan” by Mir Abdul Ghafoor Kalmati and “Gwadar’s Historical Heritage: Past, Present, and Future.”  The third day featured ten events, including the launch of , “Journey Through Chaos” by journalist Mazhar Abbas.

In addition to critical book reviews, panels held discussions on the climate challenges facing Gwadar and the history of Makran.   The festival concluded with eight diverse events on its final day, attracting enthusiastic participation.   According to event organizers, books worth Rs. 2.8 million were sold during the festival—setting a new record compared to previous editions. Notably, Balochi-language books accounted for Rs. 1 million in sales, reflecting a growing interest in regional literature, Gwadar Pro reported.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China