News Desk
Karachi, Feb 4: The Oxford University Press Pakistan officially announced the 16th edition of the Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) at a media briefing held on Tuesday at a local hotel, according to a press release.
Set to take place from February 7 to 9, the festival will revolve around the theme “Narratives from the Soil”, celebrating the profound connection between storytelling, cultural heritage, and the evolving identity of the region.

Present at the media briefing were noted journalist Ghazi Salahuddin, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab and Oxford University Press Pakistan Managing Director Arshad Saeed Husain.
The three-day event promises to be a vibrant confluence of literature, art, and ideas, bringing together renowned authors, poets, thinkers, and cultural icons from across the country. With a diverse lineup of activities, including panel discussions, book launches, poetry recitations, film screenings, and musical performances, the festival aims to ignite meaningful conversations and inspire a deeper appreciation for the power of stories.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, in a message, reiterated his government’s unwavering support for the festival.
“The Karachi Literature Festival is more than just an event; it is a celebration of creativity, learning, and dialogue. I am proud to support this platform that amplifies diverse voices and fosters a deeper understanding of our shared heritage,” he said.
Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab also emphasized the festival’s significance in promoting knowledge, literature, and culture.
“KLF is not just a cultural milestone for Karachi but a beacon of intellectual and artistic expression. It offers our youth a unique opportunity to reconnect with their linguistic roots, traditions, and cultural identity,” he remarked.
The mayor assured that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation would provide full support to ensure the festival’s success.
Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director of Oxford University Press, Pakistan, elaborated on this year’s theme, “Narratives from the Soil”.
“Literature is the soul of a nation, reflecting its history, identity, and cultural evolution. This year’s theme underscores the intrinsic bond between storytelling and our roots. Through KLF, we aim to celebrate the rich literary legacy of our land and the stories that continue to shape our collective consciousness,” he said.



The festival will feature an impressive roster of speakers, including luminaries such as Arfa Sayeda Zehra, F.S. Aijazuddin, Iftikhar Hussain Arif, Kamila Shamsie, Mishal Husain, and Asghar Nadeem Syed. These thought leaders will engage in stimulating discussions on new narratives, social paradigms, and cultural recognition, offering fresh perspectives on contemporary issues.
In addition to intellectual discourse, the festival will host a variety of cultural performances, including qawwali, mushaira sessions, and traditional music.
A dedicated Youth Pavilion will showcase drama, music, and storytelling, providing a platform for young talent to shine. Book enthusiasts can look forward to a bustling book fair, while aspiring writers will have the chance to witness the presentation of book awards across multiple genres.
From panel discussions on pressing global and local issues to film screenings and poetry recitations, KLF 2025 promises something for everyone. The festival’s inclusive programming ensures that it remains a space for dialogue, discovery, and celebration, uniting people from all walks of life in their shared love for literature and culture.
As Karachi prepares to host this grand celebration of stories, the 16th Karachi Literature Festival stands as a testament to the enduring power of narratives to connect, inspire, and transform.