SWAT: A musical concert promoting peace and harmony was held in Swat, bringing together talented artists from across Pakistan to celebrate culture and defy extremism through art.

Organised by the Pakistan Army and the Swat district administration, the event featured live performances by renowned singers including Gul Panra, Humayun Khan, and Shah Farooq. Held at Khapal Kor Foundation in Mingora, the concert attracted a large crowd comprising locals, civil society members, and youth who cheered enthusiastically throughout the evening.

The initiative aimed to project a softer image of the region, once plagued by militancy, and to spread a message of unity through music. Performers sang in Pashto, Urdu, and regional languages, blending traditional and contemporary tunes. The audience responded warmly, applauding the efforts to restore peace and highlight the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Addressing the audience, organisers emphasised that peace in Swat was achieved through the sacrifices of security forces and the resilience of the local population. They said such events would continue to promote cultural revival and community engagement.

Residents praised the initiative, noting that cultural gatherings had become rare during the years of unrest. They expressed hope that similar events would help bridge divisions and foster a sense of normalcy.

The concert concluded with calls for continued peace, tolerance, and mutual respect, leaving the audience with a renewed sense of unity and optimism for Swat’s future.