PNCA Hosts ‘Opera and Sufi Live Concert’ in Islamabad
Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) hosted an enchanting "Opera and Sufi — Live Concert" at its auditorium on Tuesday, merging the grandeur of Western opera with the spiritual depth of Sufi music as part of the Sitara-i-Imtiaz 2026 celebrations.
Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, served as the chief guest for the musical event. Parliamentary Secretary for National Heritage and Culture Division, Farah Naz Akbar, Director General PNCA Muhammad Ayoub Jamali, and former Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Syed Jamal Shah were also in attendance.
The concert featured Pakistan’s renowned first opera singer, Saïra Peter, who delivered a captivating performance seamlessly blending Western opera with Sufi musical traditions. Through her powerful vocals and distinctive style, Peter captivated the audience, fostering an engaging and spiritually uplifting atmosphere at the PNCA Auditorium.
This performance showcased the richness and diversity of Pakistan’s cultural heritage while highlighting artistic fusion and innovative musical expression.
Welcoming the guests and attendees, Minister Khichi commended PNCA for its dedication to promoting Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage and providing platforms for talented artists and innovative art forms. He also praised Saïra Peter for her contribution to promoting Pakistani music and culture domestically and internationally.
The musical evening drew a sizable audience comprised of artists, cultural figures, and distinguished guests. The crowd enthusiastically applauded the performance, celebrating a memorable and culturally enriching experience.
The event reaffirmed PNCA’s commitment to fostering artistic growth, celebrating Pakistan's cultural diversity, and providing opportunities for artists to showcase their talent and creativity.