here was something special in the air on April 29. The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi opened its doors to mark International Dance Day with a celebration that felt more like a homecoming, a joyful, energetic gathering of people who simply love to move.

The evening opened with a captivating performance by legendary classical dancer Sheema Kermani and Mani Chao, Director of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi Dance Academy, which set a tone of grace and intention. From there, the night blossomed into a wide-ranging showcase, moving from classical and hip-hop to film dance and breakdance, a reminder that dance cannot be restricted to a particular category.

Farrukh Darbar, Alizeh, Tabita Group, Ahmed, Ghani, Meesam, Wali, Maha Kazmi, Minha, Insha, Sara, Parathna, Angel, Meena, Shahzaib, Maya, Siraj, Haider, Arfeen, Noor, Shivanshu, Javeria, Shahzor, Nihal, Rocky, Muskan, Kum Kum, Yousha, Vinod, Waqas, Rohit and an array of dance groups brought the stage to life, keeping the energy high throughout the evening. Apart from the various dance movements that swayed and held the audience’s attention, it was also a moment to pause and think about what dance really means.

Renowned dancer Nighat Chaudhry said that dance is not the heritage of any one individual; rather, it is an art that anyone can express. She added that it is also a discipline that requires commitment.

Sheema Kermani, whose passion for the art form runs deep, reminded the audience that Dance Day was first introduced in Pakistan in 1983 and has been observed every year since. She spoke with quiet conviction about preserving the cultural thread that runs from Mohenjo-daro to the present and gently pushed back against the idea that dance is something to be ashamed of. It is, she said, “one of the most human forms of expression.” She urged young women especially to take it up, acknowledging that real mastery takes time, patience and years of dedication.

In a touching gesture during her performance, she wore a traditional Palestinian scarf, a subtle and powerful expression of solidarity.

Art enthusiasts, students, teachers and artists from across the city filled the auditorium to capacity. Moderated by Romana Hussain and supported by Dance Academy head Mani Chao, the evening also highlighted the resilience of the dance community. Mani Chao noted that despite challenging circumstances, the community continues to spread joy through dedication, passion and art. He added, that for them, dance is more than an art form, it is a way of expressing emotion, promoting culture and sharing something positive with the world.

One moment stood out above all others. Differently-abled dancer Alizeh Akbar performed to ‘Afreen Afreen’ and the auditorium responded with a warmth that lingered long after the music faded. It was the kind of moment that reminds you why these evenings matter and should continue to be celebrated.