Art is weapon of peace, youth are its fearless warriors: CM

“Art is our weapon of peace, and our youth are its fearless warriors, so we have to strengthen them further so that they keep performing for peace and tranquillity,” said the Sindh chief minister as he attended the Arts Alumni Festival on its second day at the Arts Council of Pakistan (ACP).

CM Syed Murad Ali Shah congratulated the students and the organisers for holding the festival. He commended the ACP for dedicating the event to Pakistan’s martyrs and the heroic successes of the Pakistan Army, calling it a praiseworthy initiative that reflects national unity and pride.

“We are, first and foremost, a nation. Our armed forces are the pride of Pakistan, standing vigilant over every inch of our homeland,” he said.

He especially acknowledged the leadership of the armed forces for their firm and effective response to recent threats posed by anti-peace elements, which he said boosted national morale and strengthened global recognition of Pakistan’s armed forces.

He said the sacrifices of Pakistan’s martyrs are the foundation of the country’s defence, recalling key moments such as the 1965 war, the 1971 conflict and the Kargil operation as examples of national resilience and bravery.

He paid tribute to the ACP for consistently organising exemplary academic, artistic and literary events. He noted that the Arts Alumni Festival would inspire young students to chart new directions in their creative journeys through activities including panel discussions, theatre, music, painting exhibitions and informative workshops.

“Every time I visit the Arts Council, I leave with renewed hope. The energy, innovation and potential of our youth assure me that the future of Pakistan is in capable hands.”

He also addressed the threats posed by anti-peace forces targeting students and youth. He cited the recent tragic incidents, including the terrorist attack on a school bus in Khuzdar, Balochistan, which claimed the lives of several students, and an attack on an educational institution in Bahawalpur.

He condemned these attacks, and affirmed the Sindh government’s commitment to bringing those responsible to justice while standing in solidarity with the families of the victims.

“The enemies of peace use guns and explosives, but our students wield the power of the pen and the brush. Through education and art, you must defeat their hateful ideologies.”

He highlighted that institutions like the ACP are not just nurturing creativity but are also building a peaceful identity for Sindh and Pakistan on the global stage.

“We are a nation shaped by art, literature and culture. Our students are leading in fields like IT, and have the skills to disrupt the digital strategies of our enemies.”

‘Outstanding tributes’

Speaking about the alumni festival, the chief executive said that the performances were “truly remarkable. Our poets and artists delivered outstanding tributes”, adds News Desk. Council for including a segment in this festival that honours the armed forces and martyrs. Our entire nation united during the India-Pakistan war. While we often heard about the spirit of 1965, we witnessed that same spirit once again in 2025.”

He said that on May 7, Pakistan was attacked at four different locations, resulting in the tragic loss of children. The Pakistan Air Force responded immediately, downing five Indian aircraft, including a Rafale, he added. “India also deployed Israeli drones. When Pakistan was attacked again on May 10, Operation Bunyanum Marsoos was launched.”

Commenting on the Pahalgam incident, he said: “It was a calculated move. Pakistan was the first to condemn it, whereas India has never condemned any such incident here. Their agenda was something else.”

Pakistan’s armed forces, government and media played a commendable role, he added. “Pakistan’s military has made it clear that any adventurism from India will receive a strong response. Our civilians stood shoulder to shoulder with the forces. Let’s stop fighting amongst ourselves — we have many enemies. Every child in Pakistan is ready to defend the nation.”

ACP Karachi President Muhammad Ahmed Shah said: “This three-day Arts Alumni Festival showcases the talent of our graduates. We dedicate this festival to our martyrs. In the recent conflict, our brave army defeated an enemy 10 times larger.”

He added: “Back in the 1965 war, most of you weren’t even born. Creative individuals lead from the front — our musicians and singers were leading even then.”

The event also featured a patriotic poetic recitation by poetess Ambareen Haseeb Ambar. Poets Anwar Shaoor, Fatima Hasan and Farasat Rizvi presented powerful poetry depicting the spirit of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. Singer Muhammad Zubair captivated the audience with his voice, and Kamran Sago stirred national pride with a passionate patriotic song.

Day two also included three theatre plays: ‘Azaadi Ek Jung’, ‘Monica & A Tale of Two Betrayed’ and ‘Salgirah’. The festival also offered a ‘Fine Art and Music Masterclass’, and a panel discussion titled ‘AI, the Author and Authenticity: Who’s Really Making the Music?’