PROVINCE REPORT
PESHAWAR: A three-day Huner Mela organized by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority has begun at Nishtar Hall to promote the province’s rich culture, traditional crafts and local artisans.
The festival was inaugurated by Shahid Khan. Senior officials including Shahryar Mahmood, Halima Iqbal, Shahnawaz and Akbar Ali were also present on the occasion.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Shahid Khan said the purpose of organizing the festival was to provide a platform to talented artisans of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to showcase their skills and help preserve and promote the province’s cultural heritage.
More than 40 stalls featuring handicrafts and traditional food items have been set up at the festival, reflecting the diverse culture of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Special arrangements for families and children include a play area, traditional Hujra setup, Kalash pavilion, handicraft and cultural stalls, tourism information desk, photographic exhibition of tourist destinations and documentary screenings highlighting the scenic beauty of the province.
Evening programs at Nishtar Hall will feature performances by renowned artists, comedy skits, cultural competitions and a special drama promoting harmony among the four provinces of Pakistan.
The mela also includes stalls by noted artisans such as Riaz Ahmad, Hazara Phulkari artisans, Charsadda Chappal craftsmen, handicraft makers and the Prison Department displaying handmade products prepared by inmates. Women entrepreneurs are also actively participating in the event.
Traditional food stalls offer local delicacies including Chapli Kabab, Bannu Peda, Charsadda rice, sugarcane and jaggery drinks, ice cream and Dahi Bhallay.
The three-day Huner Mela will continue until May 17 at Nishtar Hall.
