The second day of the 17th Karachi Literature Festival continued with a vibrant mix of discussions on literature, economy, culture and the arts, drawing large audiences to a wide range of sessions and panel discussions.

More than 45 sessions were held during the day, covering topics including Pakistan’s economy, history, fashion, film, literature and book launches. Literary conversations, film screenings and cultural discussions remained among the main attractions for festival attendees.

A special session on Pakistan’s economy brought together former federal ministers Asad Umar and Miftah Ismail, along with economist Dr Ishrat Husain, for a discussion titled Fixing the Fundamentals: Pakistan Economic Reset. The speakers discussed the country’s current economic challenges, prospects for recovery and the need for structural reforms. Panelists emphasised policy continuity, governance reforms and long-term planning as essential components for economic stability. The session was moderated by Muhammad Azfar Ahsan.

Fashion also emerged as a prominent theme during the festival. In a session focusing on Pakistan’s fashion industry, designer Ziad Bashir, fashion designer Rizwan Beyg and model Mushk Kaleem discussed the industry’s evolving global identity in the age of social media.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, model Erica Robin said such conversations were necessary to help people better understand fashion and its cultural significance.

“I feel very good at KLF. Discussions on fashion are very rare, and they should be held regularly so people can understand the true essence of fashion and how we can improve. Countries in the West and our neighbouring regions have evolved over a long period, and it is high time for Pakistani fashion as well, because we are really good at it.”

She added that increasing acceptance of cultural heritage had helped bring international attention to Pakistani fashion.

“In the last two to three years, we have started accepting our heritage and where we come from. When we promote our culture, it is beautiful, and the world is now seeing it. If we promote it collectively at an international level, Pakistan’s fashion industry can do wonders.”

Model Mushk Kaleem said the inclusion of fashion at a literature festival reflected its importance for Pakistan’s soft image globally.

“Karachi Literature Festival has given space to fashion, which is very important because the fashion industry plays a significant role in Pakistan’s soft image. I hope that in the future as well, literature festivals and talk shows continue to acknowledge the industry and provide it with space.”

She noted that the industry had faced challenges after the Covid-19 pandemic but was now regaining momentum.

“After Covid, the fashion industry had to hit a reset button. Now we are returning to fashion shows and platforms for models. If this continues, Pakistan will receive international recognition for its efforts.”

Kaleem also highlighted the need for institutional support.

“There is a cultural difference, but brands like Gul Ahmed, Alkaram and Khaadi still connect with people culturally. However, experimentation remains limited due to the lack of government support and funding. The government should take the fashion industry seriously so people can fully benefit from it.”

The festival’s mushaira, presided over by renowned poet Iftikhar Arif and moderated by Naseera Zuberi, featured prominent poets including Kishwar Naheed, Khurshid Rizvi and Shahida Hasan. The audience responded warmly, with the hall echoing with applause and appreciation throughout the session.

Large numbers of visitors attended the festival’s sessions throughout the day. The second day concluded with a screening of the Pakistani film Chakkar, bringing an end to another day of literary engagement and cultural exchange at the Karachi Literature Festival.