Doha: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani have jointly inaugurated the “MANZAR” exhibition in Doha, marking the beginning of a three-month celebration of Pakistani art and culture. This event, organized by the future Art Mill Museum and presented in collaboration with the National Museum of Qatar, underscores the cultural connections between Qatar and Pakistan.
According to Press Information Department, the exhibition is being hosted in the temporary gallery spaces of the National Museum of Qatar. It offers a comprehensive exploration of Pakistan’s artistic evolution from the 1940s to the present. Prime Minister Sharif, in his inaugural address, conveyed gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Amir of Qatar, for the invitation to participate in the event. He praised Sheikha Al Mayassa for her contribution to cultural diplomacy and the creation of this initiative, describing “MANZAR” as a bridge connecting narratives, cultures, and people.
Mr. Mohammad Saad Rumaihi, CEO of Qatar Museums, expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Sharif’s support, noting that the exhibition exemplifies the enduring friendship between Qatar and Pakistan. Featuring over 200 artworks, “MANZAR” presents the creative expressions of renowned Pakistani artists and architects. The exhibition, whose title translates to “scene” or “perspective” in Urdu and Arabic, aims to showcase the dynamism of Pakistan’s art scenes, both domestically and within its diasporas.
The exhibition extends beyond visual art, incorporating elements of Pakistani music, cuisine, and traditional performances to provide an immersive cultural experience. Prime Minister Sharif also recognized the collaborative efforts of various institutions, including Qatar Museums, the Art Mill Museum, the National Museum of Qatar, the Embassy of Pakistan in Qatar, and cultural bodies from Pakistan, which collectively brought “MANZAR” to fruition, facilitating cultural exchange between the two nations.