The Ewing English Society, in collaboration with the Department of English at Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), successfully hosted the fourth edition of the Forman Literary Festival (FLF 4.0) on June 3 and 4, 2025. The two-day event brought together a dynamic mix of scholars, writers, performers, and literature enthusiasts from across Pakistan, transforming the FCCU campus into a vibrant hub of intellectual and cultural exchange.
The festival was inaugurated by FCCU’s Rector, Dr. Jonathan S. Addleton. His opening remarks underscored the significance of literary dialogue in both academic and civic spheres, reinforcing FCCU’s commitment to inclusive and meaningful intellectual engagement.
Under the theme “Living the Narrative: From the Silence of the Page to the Symphony of Life,” FLF 4.0 featured a compelling lineup of panels, performances, and interactive sessions. Day one highlights included a keynote by renowned scholar Dr. Anjum Altaf, a panel discussion on the legacy of Bapsi Sidhwa, spoken word competitions, and dramatic performances that showcased student talent.
Distinguished speakers shared valuable insights on themes ranging from decolonization in education to the evolution of literary practices in South Asia. Cultural performances and a salsa presentation by Social Dance Lahore added artistic flair to the event.
The momentum carried into the second day with engaging panels focused on literary responses to conflict, the role of digital storytelling, and transformations within Pakistan’s entertainment industry. Esteemed panelists included Dr. Ahlam Abulaila, Dr. Shafaat Yar Khan, Prof. Dr. Fatima Syeda, Dr. Hassan Zafar, Ms. Hira Tariq, and Dr. Amara Khan, along with acclaimed actors Rashid Mehmood and Munazzah Arif.
Speakers at the closing included Ms. Fatima Wajiha Wattoo, Prof. Dr. Altaf-Ullah-Khan, Prof. Dr. Fatima Syeda, and Dr. Subbah Mir, who reflected on the impact of the festival in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper understanding of literature’s role in society.
FLF 2025 stood out not only for its academic depth and cultural vibrancy but also for the seamless organization by the Ewing English Society. With robust participation and meaningful discourse, the event affirmed FCCU’s status as a leading center for literary and cultural scholarship in Pakistan.
