This January Dubai gears up to host the world’s largest Urdu literary fest, Jashn-e-Rekhta, from January 27-28 at the picturesque Zabeel Park. After winning hearts in India for eight years and making a splash in London just three months ago, this celebrated festival is making its mark in Dubai. Here are all the fab details you need to know!
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The festival kicks off at 1:30 pm on January 27 with a captivating panel discussion titled ‘Urdu Tehzeeb aur Rishton ki Lazzat Ki Lazzat’ (The Delight of Urdu Culture and Relationships). Renowned Bollywood lyricist and poet Javed Akhtar, along with Pakistani human rights activist Arfa Sayeda Zehra, will engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Adeel Hasmi.The rest of the day the unfolds as such:
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm: Stage rendition of Ismat Chughtai’s Urdu play ‘Dozakh’ (Hell)
4:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Soul-stirring Sufi concert, ‘Naghmo’n ki Maseehaii’ by Ustad Shafqat Ali Khan
7:15 pm: Highlight of the evening – ‘Raqs-e-Naa Tammam,’ a portrayal of the life of the legendary singer Noor Jehan
9:00 pm – 11:00 pm: Enchanting session of Sufi music, ‘Shab-e Rafta’
The second day features:
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm: Compelling talk show featuring Pakistan’s iconic couple from the film industry, Sameena Peerzada and Usmaan Peerzada. They share their journey through 48 years of marriage and 50 years together, discussing numerous challenges.
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm: Interactive session titled ‘Kahaani se Kirdaar Tak’ featuring Pakistani actress Mahira Khan and veteran Indian actress Shabana Azmi. The conversation is hosted by renowned Indian filmmaker and actor Shekhar Kapur.
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm: ‘Main Koi Aisa Geet Gaau’n’ – A masterpiece project entwining poetry, songs, narration, and music featuring Javed Akhtar, Meiyang Chang, and Jahnvi Shrimankar with a live band.
Grand Finale: ‘Gehan aur Dhoop’ – The literary fest reaches its pinnacle with a grand international mushaira showcasing acclaimed poets such as Anwar Shaoor, Farhat Ehsad, Zehra Nigah, Shakeel Azmi, Abbas Tabish, and more.
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Jashn-e-Rekhta is all set to bring a celebration embodying the spirit of Urdu to Dubai. Jashn-e-Rekhta, under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nayhan, Minister of Tolerance and Co-existence, promises a rich cultural fusion, weaving Urdu language, literature, and culture into the cosmopolitan fabric of the UAE.
Anticipating a turnout of 15,000, including visitors from India and Pakistan, the festival promises more than just literary delights. The Aiwan-e-Zaiqa Food Bazaar offers diverse culinary delights, curated to bring you the flavours of Indian, Pakistani, Arabic, and other cuisines. Explore Rekhta’s Urdu Bazaar, featuring stalls with art, handicrafts, merchandise, books, and more.
Secure your spot now! Tickets, including the Zabeel Park entry fee, are priced at AED 75 and can be purchased on Platinumlist. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the richness of Urdu culture and literature in the heart of Dubai!
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