Houston Declares August 14, 2025, as ACT Pakistan Festival Day – A Historic Milestone for Pakistani-Americans Celebration of Unity, Culture, and Pride:Staff Reporter: Houston witnessed a historic celebration of Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day as thousands of people gathered for the “ACT (Art, Culture & Taste) Pakistan Festival 2025” under the theme of Marka-e-Haq. Organized through a collaboration between the Consulate General of Pakistan in Houston, the Houston- Karachi Sister City Association, the Pakistan Association of Greater Houston, the Quaid-e-Azam Foundation, and other community organizations, the festival brought together diplomats, officials, and members of the wider Houston community in a display
of unity and cultural pride.
The Guest of Honor, His Excellency Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, praised overseas Pakistanis as the true ambassadors of the nation.
In his keynote remarks, he emphasized that the strength of Pakistan lies in its economic stability and that the sacrifices of Marka-e-Haq must always be remembered as the foundation of a sovereign and self-reliant Pakistan.
The Consul General of Pakistan in Houston also addressed the gathering, welcoming dignitaries and expressing gratitude to the community for their overwhelming support in making the ACT Festival a success. He highlighted that Houston remains one of the strongest centers of Pakistani-American engagement in the United States.
A historic moment of the evening came when Houston Mayor John Whitmire issued an official proclamation declaring August 14, 2025, as “ACT Pakistan Festival Day” in Houston, Texas. The proclamation, titled “Art, Culture & Taste Pakistan Festival in Houston – Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day”, was formally presented by Gigi Lee, Chief of International Affairs, on behalf of the Mayor’s Office. The proclamation acknowledged the contributions of Pakistani-Americans to Houston’s cultural and civic life and extended warm greetings to all festival attendees.
The Coordinator of the organizing committee Festival, Muhammad Saeed Sheikh, who is also the President of the Houston-Karachi Sister City Association, remarked that the ACT Festival was conceived to project Pakistan’s achievements, honor the sacrifices of Marka-e-Haq, and showcase the richness of its culture in the United States. He noted that the proclamation itself symbolized the recognition of Pakistan’s cultural diplomacy and extended heartfelt thanks to community members and partners for turning this vision into reality.
Siraj Narsi, President of the Pakistan Association of Greater Houston, said that the spirit of Marka-e-Haq was celebrated in Houston as thousands of Pakistanis gathered under one roof in unity. He expressed confidence that this festival had established a new tradition that would continue to flourish in the years ahead, building stronger ties between Pakistan and Houston.
The festival offered a wide range of activities, including a documentary on Marka-e-Haq, and another showcasing the beauty of Pakistan’s four provinces. The program also featured the screening of a documentary on Pakistan’s history, the honoring of civil award recipients, and a vibrant cultural showcase with traditional dances representing all provinces. Visitors explored booths displaying Pakistani arts, crafts, jewelry, clothing, and enjoyed a playland dedicated to children. Food stalls highlighted the richness of Pakistani cuisine, while visitors also relished the sweetness of Pakistani mangoes.
Turkish Airlines, one of the partners of the festival, added excitement by sponsoring a raffle draw of two round-trip tickets to Pakistan, presented by Jamal Hamza on behalf of the airline.
The evening was emceed by Nabil Ishaq and Rehan Ahmed from Radio Naya Andaz, who kept the program flowing with energy and enthusiasm.
Delicious Pakistani cuisine was featured by prominent Tempura Food Management and colorful production was managed by Sage Productions and Zeejay Productions. The grand celebration concluded with a captivating musical performance by renowned Pakistani singer Tehseen Javed, whose soulful voice enthralled the audience and brought the festival to a memorable close.
