Cultural Program Showcasing Japanese Poetry “Waka” with Pakistani Classical Music/Dance and Japanese Flower Arrangement “Ikebana”
On the evening of Monday, December 16, 2024, under the patronage of the Consulate-General of Japan, Karachi, the Pakistan Japan Cultural Association (PJCA), Sindh, in collaboration with the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, organized a cultural program featuring a fusion of ancient Japanese poetry Waka with Pakistani classical music and classical dance, alongside a live demonstration of the Japanese art of flower arrangement, Ikebana. The event was graced by Hattori Masaru, Consul General of Japan in Karachi, as the chief guest. The program was eloquently hosted by Ms. Sameera Javed, a member of PJCA’s Executive Committee.
Ms. Saadia Rashid, President of PJCA, Sindh, warmly thanked the Consul General, Hattori Masaru, for his presence, which she remarked added honor and prestige to the event. She appreciated his unwavering guidance and support in organizing educational, cultural, and literary events under PJCA, Sindh. Ms. Rashid also extended her gratitude to Mr. Muhammad Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, for once again extending his cooperation and providing facilities for the event in partnership with the Japanese Consulate and PJCA, Sindh.
In his address, honorable Mr. Hattori Masaru expressed his appreciation for the promotion of Japanese culture, particularly Waka poetry, and lauded its reception in Pakistan. He acknowledged the efforts of PJCA in creatively integrating Waka poetry with local art forms, including classical poetry and dance. He noted that such cultural exchanges bring the two nations closer, fostering a deeper connection between the people of Japan and Pakistan.
The event celebrated the contributions of several talented individuals whose efforts brought the program to life, and their artistic work was lauded by Ms. Saadia Rashid, Mr. Azmat Ataka, and Consul General Mr. Hattori Masaru. Shahzad Niaz received high praise for his exquisite Urdu translations of Waka poetry, while Ustad Mehmoob Ali Khan was commended for composing and performing music that beautifully harmonized with the translated verses. Katherine Shad and Moeed Farooqi captivated the audience with their enchanting vocal performances, and Sheema Kermani, Pakistan’s foremost classical dance artist, mesmerized everyone with her elegant dance performance. Additionally, Professor Asifa Ataka, a renowned expert in Ikebana, showcased her artistry through a live demonstration of flower arrangement, seamlessly integrating it with poetry, music, and dance. These collective efforts highlighted the fusion of cultures, leaving the audience deeply impressed.
The program, blending diverse dimensions and cultural elements, captivated the audience and was met with enthusiastic acclaim. The attendees appreciated the efforts of PJCA, the Arts Council of Pakistan, and the Japanese Consulate in Karachi for successfully organizing such a unique and engaging event.
Member Executive Committee
Pakistan Japan Cultural Association Sindh
16 December 2024
