The vibrant heart of southern Punjab's culture was on full display this Thursday as Multan played host to the Seraiki Culture Day celebrations. The central event, a bustling Family Foods Festival, transformed the Multan Tea House into a hub of tradition, flavor, and community spirit.
A Feast for the Senses: Culinary Heritage Takes Center Stage
The festival's primary draw was an astonishing array of authentic Seraiki dishes that offered a true taste of the region's culinary soul. Guests were treated to a lavish spread that highlighted both everyday staples and festive specialties. The menu was a comprehensive journey through Seraiki kitchens.
Savory delights included sohbat, spinach and gandlay greens, methi greens, and hearty lentil dishes like chickpea and mung dal. The bread selection showcased diversity with rice bread, maize bread, missi roti, and doli roti. For meat lovers, there were traditional favorites like barray paye, siri paye, and ojhri.
The sweet side of Seraiki culture was equally impressive. Festive treats such as churi made with clarified butter and sugar, jiwaray, sohanjharan, and dodhay were served. Desserts like carrot halwa, semolina-based sweets, and vermicelli prepared with milk and sugar, including kheer vermicelli, provided a perfect finish. Accompaniments like lassi, yogurt, chutneys, and a variety of pickles completed the gastronomic experience.
More Than Food: A Celebration of Living Traditions
Beyond the feast, the event was a deep dive into the cultural identity of the Seraiki region. The atmosphere was enlivened by live performances of the energetic traditional jhummar dance, captivating attendees and adding rhythmic joy to the festivities.
Cultural exhibitions prominently featured the iconic ajrak, the distinctive block-printed shawl symbolic of the area. Stalls further enriched the experience by offering traditional Seraiki dresses, handcrafted khusa (footwear), jewellery, and books related to the region's heritage, allowing visitors to take a piece of the culture home.
Community Spirit and Organizational Effort
The event successfully attracted a large and diverse crowd from various walks of life, all united in their appreciation for southern Punjab's traditions. It was designed as an immersive experience to strengthen and showcase the unique Seraiki identity.
The festival was organized by the Seraikistan Qoumi Council in collaboration with FDO. In a poignant gesture of goodwill and cultural pride, Seraiki ajraks were presented to guests as a parting gift, symbolizing respect and a warm farewell. This celebration not only satisfied appetites but also nourished a profound sense of cultural belonging and pride among all who attended.
