In a vibrant celebration of cultural exchange, the Pakistan Cultural Week took place at Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia. The event showcased a colorful array of performances, art, and cuisine, drawing enthusiastic crowds from the Pakistani diaspora and locals alike. Cultural bazaars, food streets, and captivating displays of truck art added to the festive atmosphere. The Pakistan Cultural Week was part of the Saudi Seasons initiative, which aims to promote tourism and national heritage. With over 2.7 million visitors so far, the festival has been a resounding success.
The festival aimed to strengthen cultural ties and spread happiness, aligning with the goals of the General Entertainment Authority. Inspired by the significant presence of Pakistanis in the Kingdom, the event created a sense of home for Pakistani expatriates. The success of the Pakistan Cultural Week reflects the community's desire to witness their own cultural events abroad.
The Saudi government's involvement in cultural and entertainment initiatives, in line with Vision 2030, aims to attract foreign countries and achieve the goal of hosting 13 million expats by 2030. The Pakistan Cultural Week was a center of attraction for all visitors, contributing to the overall success of the Riyadh Season festival.
In a separate event, the Rongali Festival, Assam's cultural extravaganza, took place from June 21 to 23 at the Veterinary College Ground in Khanapara, Guwahati. The festival aimed to foster cultural unity and showcase Assam's immense talent, providing a platform for local artists, musicians, designers, and entrepreneurs. This year's festival exhibited the rich traditions of various communities, including Matak, Moran, Sonowal Kachari, Tiwa Koch Rajbongshi, Chutia Tea Tribes, Rabha Tai Ahom, Gorkha Sonowal Bodo, Mising Karbi, and Dimasa. The event featured Assam's renowned silk crafts, tea, bell metal, and agricultural products, and presented the Rongali Entrepreneurship Award to ten exceptional local entrepreneurs. The festival was inaugurated by the Hon'ble Governor of Assam, Mr. Gulab Chandra Kataria, and featured notable performances by Bollywood and Assamese artists, as well as the introduction of the Rongali Music Awards. The event also showcased local handloom designs and featured a hip hop village with 150 artists from across India. Rongali Music Connect brought together local musicians and digital experts for interactive sessions. The festival, supported by the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, aimed to promote cultural and economic development in the region. The festival provided opportunities for Assam's creative talents and entrepreneurs.
Meanwhile, in Atlantic City, the annual Bangladesh Festival hosted by the Bangladesh Association of Atlantic County took place at Surf Stadium on August 14, 2024. The festival attracted hundreds of people and featured various food dishes, jewelry, and fashion items. Notable attendees included Deshi Village cook Alam Rasel, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Association of Atlantic County Md. 'Suhel' Ahmed, Franklin Township Councilwoman Shepa Uddin, 5th Ward Councilman Muhammad 'Anjum' Zia, Biplab Deb, and Bangladesh Association of Atlantic County President Shahid Khan. The festival lasted from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. and was a popular event in the community.
These cultural festivals highlight the importance of celebrating diversity and fostering cultural exchange. They provide platforms for communities to showcase their traditions, talents, and cuisines, while also promoting tourism and economic development in their respective regions.