In pursuance of its objectives , the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage ( NIFTHY)/LoK Virsa organizes a mega cultural event called " Lok Mela " annually at the Federal Capital Islamabad for the last four decades
The festival aims at promoting , perpetuating and preserving arts , crafts , culture , music and traditional skills of Pakistan . This unique event has now become a symbol of the Federation's recognition and patronage to our rich cultural diversity
The Mela serves to strengthen national harmony and integration among all federating units through their effective participation. It also disseminates the dynamic creativity of our countryside and gives people pride in their identity
This year , the 7 - day Lok Mela will be held from Monday , 1st to Sunday , 7th November , 2021 at Lok Virsa Complex , Garden Avenue Islamabad in collaboration with provincial culture departments / arts councils The main features of the festival include
• Provincial Cultural Pavilions
• Folkloric Song & Dance Ensembles
• Traditional Cuisine
• Craft Bazaar
• Cultural Nights
• Inaugural and Award ceremonies
Hundreds of master artisans , folk artists , folk musicians , folk performers and folk dancers from all over the country will participate in the Mela by bringing with them their creativity in arts , crafts , music and innovation The festival will not only provide the crafts people an important platform to demonstrate their skills and win recognition of their talent at national level but also extend them an opportunity to sell their crafts without any exploitation or involvement of middleman
The special events of the festival are
• Inaugural ceremony on 1st November 2021
• Provincial cultural nights with eminent folk artists between 1st " to 6th November 2021
• NIFTH / Lok Virsa exclusive musical show on 7th November 2021.
