ISLAMABAD: Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has stressed on the preservation and promotion of culture, art and heritage saying it is a collective responsibility of governments, parliaments, institutions and individuals to pass on these assets to the future generation.
He expressed these views while speaking at the inaugural ceremony of an organisation named CultuRise, says a press release.
The Senate chairman said all stakeholders need to play their part in passing on this great human heritage to future generations. Cultural heritage holds great significance and its preservation is essential for creating awareness among future generations, imparting knowledge about civilisation and traditions and understanding social values.
The presence of the diplomatic community and Unesco representatives at the ceremony signifies the importance of international cooperation for the protection of cultural heritage whether it is Spain’s magnificent Alhambra, Hungary’s historic Buda Castle, or Pakistan’s Mohenjo-Daro, Lahore Fort, and the ancient gates of old Multan - these sites are not only national assets but part of a shared human legacy.
Mr Gilani said Pakistan’s cultural heritage was like a bouquet of diverse civilisations, languages and traditions. “Our archaeological and cultural heritage has flourished in the cradle of great civilisations like Gandhara, the Indus Valley and Mehrgarh. From the ruins of Takht Bhai, the capital of the ancient Gandhara civilisation to the famous landmarks of the Mughal era, each era has etched its marks in our history,” he said, adding that whether it be the blue tiles and pottery of Multan, the exquisite embroidery and mirror work of Sindh and Balochistan, or the delicate woodwork of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa our craftsmanship, folk music, literature and unique architectural styles are manifestations of our national identity and resilience.
However, he said, this great heritage was now facing numerous challenges.
“Urban development, neglect and the pressures of modern times are eroding the foundations of our identity. In such times, heritage preservation is not merely about remembering the past; it is a national duty we owe to our future generations,” Mr Gilani said.
Published in Dawn, May 6th, 2025
