Houston experienced a historic celebration of Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day as thousands gathered for the Pakistan ACT (Arts, Culture & Taste) Festival 2025, centered around the theme “Marka-e-Haq.” The festival was organized in collaboration with the Consulate General of Pakistan in Houston, the Houston-Karachi Sister City Association, the Pakistan Association of Greater Houston, the Quaid-e-Azam Foundation, and other community organizations. Diplomats, officials, and Houston’s diverse community came together in a remarkable display of unity and cultural pride.
The chief guest, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, hailed overseas Pakistanis as the true ambassadors of the nation. In his keynote address, he emphasized that Pakistan’s real strength lies in its economic stability. He urged the community to always remember the sacrifices made in Marka-e-Haq, as they form the foundation of a sovereign and self-reliant Pakistan.
Consul General of Pakistan in Houston, Aftab Chaudhry, also addressed the gathering, warmly welcoming distinguished guests and extending gratitude to the community for their support in making the ACT Festival a resounding success. He highlighted Houston as the epicenter of Pakistani community activities in the United States.
The most historic moment of the evening came when Houston Mayor John Whitmire officially declared August 14, 2025, as “Pakistan ACT Festival Day” in Houston. The proclamation, titled “Arts, Culture & Taste Pakistan Festival in Houston – Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day,” was presented on behalf of the Mayor’s Office by Chief of International Affairs, GG Lee. The proclamation recognized the contributions of the Pakistani community to Houston’s cultural and social fabric and extended best wishes to all participants.
Festival organizer and coordinator, Muhammad Saeed Sheikh—who also serves as President of the Houston-Karachi Sister City Association—stated that the purpose of the ACT Festival was to highlight Pakistan’s achievements, honor the sacrifices of Marka-e-Haq, and showcase Pakistani culture in the United States. He described the proclamation as a symbol of Pakistan’s cultural diplomacy and expressed gratitude to the community and partners who helped turn this dream into reality.
Siraj Narsi, President of the Pakistan Association of Greater Houston, noted that the spirit of Marka-e-Haq was celebrated in Houston when thousands of Pakistanis gathered under one roof. He said the festival was setting a new tradition that would continue in the years to come, further strengthening ties between Pakistan and Houston.
The festival featured a wide array of cultural programs, including a documentary on Marka-e-Haq, another showcasing the beauty of Pakistan’s four provinces, a video on Pakistan’s history, tributes to civil award recipients, and vibrant traditional dances from the provinces. Attendees enjoyed exhibitions of Pakistani art, handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing, along with a special playland for children. Food stalls offered authentic Pakistani cuisine, while the sweetness of Pakistani mangoes delighted the guests.
Adding to the excitement, Turkish Airlines sponsored a raffle draw of two return tickets, presented on behalf of the airline by Jamal Hamza.
The evening was hosted by Nabeel Ishaq and Rehan Ahmed (Radio Naya Andaz), who kept the program lively and engaging throughout.
The grand celebration concluded with a mesmerizing musical performance by renowned Pakistani singer Tahsseen Javed, whose powerful voice enthralled the audience and made the festival truly unforgettable.
Photos by : Americanurdu.tv
