Cultural Harmony and Forgotten Heroes: SaahRise at the Department of English, BS 2 Cultural Event

On 8th June 2026, Team SaahRise had the honour of being invited by Dr Luqman Ahmed to the Department of English as guest speakers. The occasion was a beautiful cultural activity organised for BS 2 students, celebrating the rich diversity of Pakistan and beyond.

Students from different backgrounds set up lively cultural stalls. Saraiki, Pashtun, Punjabi, Sindhi, Baloch, Kashmiri, and Gilgiti cultures came alive with traditional food, colourful decorations, and warm hospitality. Our overseas friends from Korea also participated enthusiastically, sharing their own culture and delicious food. It was a true reflection of unity in diversity.

The programme was filled with energy as students performed traditional dances. We enjoyed Jhumar, Attan, Chaap, Bhangra, Ho Jamalo, and beautiful folk dances from Gilgit-Baltistan. The performances brought joy and pride to everyone present.

Our founder, Dur E Najaf Zahra, introduced SaahRise to the students and faculty. She shared the mission, motto, and upcoming events of the organisation. She spoke about the importance of education, women’s empowerment, and preserving our cultural heritage.

The response was heartwarming. Students, the Chairperson of the English Department, and other respected faculty members greatly appreciated SaahRise’s work. Many students showed keen interest in joining SaahRise and becoming part of our journey.

Dur E Najaf Zahra specially highlighted brave women leaders from Saraiki culture, such as Mukhtaran Mai. She reminded everyone how history often forgets our own heroes. For example, many of us do not know that Fatima Jinnah was also a dentist. We usually study women leaders from foreign countries, but Pakistan has its own inspiring stories. Our aim at SaahRise is to remember these women and document their contributions so they are not lost.

As a proud Saraiki, our founder felt deeply honoured when students from the Saraiki stall presented her with traditional gifts as a token of appreciation. Dr Luqman Ahmed also presented her with an appreciation cup.

Key Message

We must respect and celebrate our cultures because they are our pride. Pakistani history is full of brave and talented women leaders, yet we are slowly forgetting them. It is our responsibility to document their stories and pass them on to the next generation.

Events like this remind us that when we come together, we become stronger. SaahRise will continue working to promote education, cultural harmony, and the recognition of our unsung heroes, especially our women.

We are grateful to Dr Luqman Ahmed, the entire English Department, and all the students for this wonderful opportunity.