Afkar e Taza ThinkFest Invites You to Come, Think, and Question – Mark the Dates!
The much-anticipated Afkar-e-Taza ThinkFest is back! Mark your calendars for January 11-12, 2025, as Alhamra Lahore becomes the epicenter of intellectual engagement and cultural exchange.
This year’s ThinkFest, now in its 8th edition, promises to be an extraordinary celebration of innovative ideas and critical discourse.
Theme – A Dialogue Between Past and Present
Inspired by the timeless words of historian E.H. Carr—“History is an unending dialogue between the past and the present”—the ThinkFest explores the ever-evolving relationship between historical narratives and contemporary realities.
This theme finds vivid expression in the festival’s unique visual motif: old stamps from around the world reimagined with iconic protest images of today. These stamps symbolize the connection between history and modern struggles, offering a thought-provoking lens through which to view our shared human journey.
Afkar e Taza Event Details
Venue | Alhamra, Mall Road, Lahore |
Dates | 11th and 12th January 2025 |
Day | Saturday and Sunday |
Registration Details | Free Entry |
Guest Speakers
The Afkar-e-Taza ThinkFest 2025 features an impressive lineup of guest speakers who are thought leaders, scholars, and innovators in their respective fields. These distinguished individuals bring diverse perspectives and insights, making each session a unique opportunity to learn, engage, and be inspired.
Speakers | State | Occupation |
Mira Nair | India | Filmmaker |
Mahmood Mamdani | Uganda | Professor |
Vanya Bhargava | India | Researcher |
Amar Sohal | UK | Lecturer |
S.Y. Qureshi | India | Former Chief Election |
Shafey Kidwai | India | Professor |
Ila Sharma | Nepal | Former Chief Election |
Jasper Becker | UK | Journalist |
Mushtaq Khan | Bangladesh | Professor |
Leila Hatoum | Lebanon | Journalist |
Stefan Dercon | UK | Professor |
Bruno Macaes | Portugal | Former Minister and Author |
Ayesha Jalal | USA | Historian and Academic Writer |
Arsalan Khan | USA | Assistant Professor |
Linda Poppe | Germany | Directing Office |
Laurent Gayer | France | Senior Research Fellow |
Najam Sethi | Pakistan | Pakistani Journalist |
Miftah Ismail | Pakistan | Politician |
Jugnu Mohsin | Pakistan | Journalist |
Shahid Khaqan Abbasi | Pakistan | Former Prime Minister |
Rashid Langrial | Pakistan | Bureaucrat |
S. Akbar Zaidi | Pakistan | Political Economist |
Moeed Yusuf | Pakistan | Leading Scholar and Vice-Chancellor |
Musadik Malik | Pakistan | Federal Minister |
Raza Rumi | Pakistan | Journalist |
Imdad Bosal | Pakistan | Federal Secretary of Finance |
Hina Rabbani Khar | Pakistan | Politician |
Engage with Visionary Thinkers
The Afkar-e-Taza ThinkFest draws inspiration from the philosophy of Sir Muhammad Iqbal, whose ideas continue to resonate in the modern world. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to interact with globally renowned scholars, thought leaders, and changemakers.
ThinkFest creates a vibrant space for challenging conventional perspectives and fostering intellectual growth through panel discussions, lectures, and interactive sessions.
Why You Should Attend
This year’s ThinkFest promises:
- Engaging Conversations: Explore pressing global issues with experts from diverse fields.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich history and dynamic culture of Lahore.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for ideas and progress.
Experience the Alhamra Lahore
Nestled in the heart of Lahore, the Alhamra Arts Council provides the perfect backdrop for this festival of ideas. Its historic architecture and lively atmosphere embody the spirit of the ThinkFest: a bridge between the past and the present.
Join the Dialogue
Afkar-e-Taza ThinkFest is more than an event; it’s a movement that encourages individuals to think critically, question boldly, and envision a better future. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply a curious mind, this festival offers something for everyone.
Come, Think, and Question with us at the Afkar-e-Taza ThinkFest 2025. Be part of a community that values ideas, celebrates diversity, and inspires change.
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