Islamabad, 7th November 2024 – The Islamabad Literature Festival (ILF), one of Pakistan’s leading literary events, returns for its 10th edition from 8th to 10th November. The Event is happening at Gandhara Citizen’s Club, Fatima Jinnah (F-9) Park. Organized by Oxford University Press (OUP) Pakistan and supported by Getz Pharma, this milestone event embraces the theme “Sustainability: Words Change Mindsets.”
Celebrating Literature, Art, and Intellectual Exchange
With 55 sessions and 15 book launches, ILF 2024 promises a vibrant program for literature lovers, writers, scholars, and the public. This year’s lineup includes discussions, workshops, and cultural activities, each designed to foster meaningful conversations.
“OUP is proud to celebrate the 10th edition of ILF, a festival that promotes dialogue, challenges outdated perspectives, and celebrates storytelling,” shared Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director, OUP Pakistan. “Literature can shape perspectives, drive change, and inspire action. ILF provides a vital platform to challenge thinking, ignite new ideas, and empower individuals to work towards a better Pakistan.”
Highlights and Keynote Speakers
ILF 2024 will feature respected authors, poets, and intellectuals from Pakistan and abroad. In the opening ceremony, H.E. Jane Marriott CMG OBE, British High Commissioner to Pakistan, will deliver the keynote address. Other esteemed speakers include:
- Zehra Nigah – Renowned Poet
- Maleeha Lodhi – Former Pakistan UN Representative
- Mohammad Aurangzeb – Federal Minister for Finance & Revenue
- Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani – Special Secretary, Ministry of Federal Education
- Iftikhar Arif – Acclaimed Urdu Poet and Scholar
- Najeeba Arif – Eminent Scholar and Critic
Engaging Sessions and Cultural Showcases
In addition to thought-provoking panels, ILF brings a diverse group of speakers, including Hamid Mir, Nasim Zehra, Faisal Bari, Kishwar Naheed, Anwar Masood, Alamgir Hashmi, Baela Raza Jamil, Andrew Coombe, and Muneeza Shamsie. Their sessions will cover literature, history, current affairs, and socio-political issues.
A Festival of Books and Cultural Performances
This year, attendees can visit the ILF book fair, where books across genres will be available for purchase. The festival also celebrates Pakistan’s cultural diversity through performances in music, dance, and visual art, showcasing the richness of Pakistani heritage.
Reflecting on a decade of ILF, the festival continues to advance cultural and literary discourse by creating a space for diverse perspectives. This year’s event invites everyone to join in celebrating the power of words and their ability to create a sustainable, inclusive future.
To get latest updates follow us on Instagram @theheraldprime