What Makes Jashn-e-Rekhta Dubai a Unique Celebration of Urdu Language and Culture?

Jashn-e-Rekhta Dubai, the world’s largest celebration of the Urdu language, literature and culture is set to make a triumphant return next month featuring more than 50 artists and speakers from the UAE, India, Pakistan and other countries. Following the immense success of last year’s edition, this two day festival at Zabeel Park on February 1 and 2 promises to be an even grandeur affair.

Headlining the event are celebrities and literary luminaries such as Saba Qamar, Imran Abbas, Javed Akhtar, Zehra Nigah and Samina Peerzada who will engage in thought-provoking discussions and recitations. Other highlights include a grand mushaira which is a gathering of contemporary poets from India and Pakistan, a women’s Sufi qawwali ensemble and musical performances by renowned artists such as Piyush Mishra, Shafqat Amanat Ali and Ali Sethi.

Unique experiences include a life sized hologram of the legendary poet Mirza Ghalib, AI-powered Dial-e-Poet technology that allows attendees to interact with the voices of iconic poets and fun, educational games to test one’s poetic skills. Visitors will also have the chance to write their names in Urdu or create their own poetic masterpieces.

Huma Khalil, trustee and creative director of the Rekhta Foundation, highlighted that the event is set to be a vibrant celebration of everything that makes Urdu so special. From poetry that moves the soul to music that captures the heart, we’ve designed an experience that connects people to the beauty of the language in a way that’s fresh and exciting.

After its international debut in London in 2023 and a successful inaugural edition in Dubai last year, Jashn-e-Rekhta returns with great anticipation.