Get ready, Urdu lovers! The celebrated literary festival, Jashn-e-Rekhta, is poised to captivate Dubai, enchanting audiences after eight years in India and its international debut in London. From January 27-28, Zabeel Park will transform into a vibrant epicenter of Urdu culture, offering a symphony of poetry, captivating talk shows, soulful ghazals, and spellbinding storytelling.
A Celebration of Urdu’s Spirit:
Jashn-e-Rekhta promises two days of immersive experiences, celebrating the quintessential spirit of the Urdu language. Renowned literary figures, poets, musicians, and actors will grace the stage, weaving a tapestry of cultural delights.
Highlights Galore:
The festival kicks off with a thought-provoking panel discussion, “Urdu Tehzeeb aur Rishton ki Lazzat Ki Lazzat,” featuring iconic poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar in conversation with Adeel Hasmi and Pakistani human rights activist Arfa Sayeda Zehra. Immerse yourself in the beauty of words with Ismat Chughtai’s Urdu play, “Dozakh,” brought to life on stage. Be transported by the soul-stirring Sufi concert, “Naghmo’n ki Maseehaii,” by Ustad Shafqat Ali Khan. The evening culminates in “Raqs-e-Naa Tammam,” a captivating portrayal of legendary singer Noor Jehan’s life by Shinjini Kulkarni and Danish Iqbal.
Day Two’s Enchantments:
The second day continues the literary magic with a captivating talk show featuring Pakistan’s iconic couple, Sameena Peerzada and Usmaan Peerzada, sharing their 48-year journey through challenges and triumphs. Witness the dynamic duo of Mahira Khan and Shabana Azmi engage in a conversation about life, stories, and characters with renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur in “Kahaani se Kirdaar Tak.” Don’t miss the musical masterpiece, “Main Koi Aisa Geet Gaau’n,” featuring Javed Akhtar alongside Meiyang Chang and Jahnvi Shrimankar, blending poetry, songs, and narration with a live band.
The Grand Finale: Jashn-e-Rekhta
The pinnacle of the festival arrives with “Gehan aur Dhoop,” a grand international mushaira showcasing the power of words through the verses of acclaimed poets like Anwar Shaoor, Farhat Ehsad, Zehra Nigah, Shakeel Azmi, and Abbas Tabish, among others.
Bridging Cultures:
Sanjiv Saraf, founder of Rekhta Foundation, the non-profit organization behind Jashn-e-Rekhta, sees Dubai as the perfect host for this cultural extravaganza. He highlights the city’s cosmopolitan character and thriving Urdu-speaking community, stating, “In choosing Dubai, we embrace the city’s vibrant Urdu scene and offer a beacon of cultural unity in the current geopolitical climate.”
Witnessing an Urdu Renaissance:
Dubai is experiencing an Urdu Renaissance, hosting the most mushairas globally. Jashn-e-Rekhta, held under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nayhan, Minister of Tolerance and Co-existence, promises a rich cultural fusion, weaving the essence of Urdu into the very fabric of the UAE.
Beyond Words:
Anticipating a turnout of 15,000, Jashn-e-Rekhta caters to all senses. Indulge in culinary delights at the Aiwan-e-Zaiqa Food Bazaar, featuring Indian, Pakistani, Arabic, and more. Explore the vibrant Rekhta’s Urdu Bazaar, brimming with art, handicrafts, merchandise, and books.
Experience the magic of Urdu, the melody of poetry, and the warmth of storytelling at Jashn-e-Rekhta! Tickets, including Zabeel Park entry, are priced at Dh75 and available on the Platinum list. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of the world’s largest Urdu literary celebration in the heart of Dubai.