MARVELLOUS CULTURAL PANORAMA OF PAKISTAN

part 2

Although Pakistan has deep Islamic roots, it is a highly secular nation accommodating numerous religious communities that live side by side with equal respect and pride. This charming country has produced some of the world's most influential writers, artistes, thinkers, sportsmen and politi- cians. Muhammad Ali Jinnah's name comes to mind when we remember the recent history of Pakistan. Ali Jinnah the patriotic founding father of Pakistan was the most widely known towering figures who inspired and led the Pakistani Independence movement in 1947. Every year on August 14th the significance of independence is remembered throughout the country. The true spirit of the country's culture is reflected in the Pakistani flag. Pakistan is an amazing country to visit for its contrasts, high cultural interest and for its spectacular natural atmosphere.

The country boasts of a varied landscape ranging from fantastic coastline to dramatic towering mountains .Of the world's fourteen highest peaks the country has five . The country boasts a wide variety of interesting places. Among them the noteworthy places such as Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Swat Valley, Peshawar and Baluchistan are some of the prominent places of attractions that appeal to many visitors from all parts of the world. The splendid panoramic capital city, Islamabad is an ideal place to enjoy the charm of life of the country. It is a bustling place where ancient culture and modern urban life coexist together. Shopping is undoubtedly an attraction in itself as choices and variety for things to shop in Islamabad is immeasurable. As one of the most populous cities of Pakistan, Karachi is a significant place to travel. Origin of Karachi is so unique and ancient that it has been veiled in the mist of time. There is no end to the breath-taking sites visitors can see in this city. The city of Lahore is another well known place that has a vibrant cultural life crowded with a legacy of a rich cultural past. There are many exotic places-of-interest in Lahore .Of those the most popular are the Shalimar Gardens, Shahjan Mosque and Lahore fortress. The UNESCO World Heritage site in Gandhara is considered as the centre of cultural activities and education for Buddhist scholars in the ancient times. It is a place to experience and travel down the corridors of history. Pakistan is not just admired for its beauty but also for its love for entertainment, theatre, films, dances and music ranging from folk to traditional Ghazal and Qawwali music. The “Lollywood” film industry is centered primarily on the domestic market, for which every year over forty feature-length films are released. Today cultural life in Pakistan finds expression in a variety of different fields. Culture of the country can be found in various expressions of arts. The country has long been known for its thriving and diverse cultures and there is no better place to discover this than in Pakistan.