Pakistan celebrates National Day in Berlin with glitz and glamour

BERLIN: The Embassy of Pakistan arranged a grand reception in Maritim Hotel, Berlin to celebrate the 77th National Day of Pakistan. The celebrations included a fashion show by Élan, a music concert of Zeb Bangash, and jewellery exhibition by Sherezad.

 On the red carpet, ambassador Jauhar Saleem welcomed members of the German parliament, diplomats and German and Pakistani guests. In the opening remarks, Saleem highlighted the achievements of the government in the spheres of security, economy and culture.

Pakistan and Germany enjoy longstanding friendly relations and Germany is the former’s leading trade partner in Europe, he added. “The two countries have also been partners in their international quests for promoting peace and development.”

Talking to Geo News, the ambassador said that Pakistan’s image hasn’t been promoted in a positive way, with the West still having many misconceptions about the country. We want to show the world today’s Pakistan, which is progressive & prosperous with vibrant culture and thriving fashion industry, he added.

The highlight of the cultural presentation was Khadija Shah’s Èlan Haute Couture collection.  The Pakistani designer’s creation offered an insight into the growing fashion scene in Pakistan. Élan showcased their contemporary and trendy collections for the first time in front of Berliner audience.

The appearance of the ambassador’s wife Zara Jauhar, on the ramp as the showstopper for Élan was a surprise for many. Mahira Khan was also invited for the fashion show but couldn’t make it to Berlin. Zara Jauhar told Geo News that she was happy to participate in the show for Pakistan, adding that she is glad that today’s show was a huge success in terms of  branding the country.

Sherazad Jewellery exhibited their beautiful new gemstones collection ‘Zamarrud’ at the event. Sherezad Rahimtoola told Geo News that her latest jewellery designs are handmade and are manufactured in Karachi. She said that the idea behind the exhibition was to show the people of Berlin that people back home are doing marvellous and creative work.

Zeb Bangash mesmerised the audience with the fusion of Pakistani & Persian music. Zeb performed with four local musicians of Berlin. She said that Germany and Pakistan share strong cultural bonds, and appreciated Goethe Institute and Anne Marie Schimmel Haus for being active in Pakistan even in difficult times.

Sadia Siddiqui from Mustang Productions, who choreographed and managed the event said that in order to present Pakistan as a ‘brand’ a professional team came all the way from London to Berlin. She added that various beautiful German & European models were chosen for the catwalk to exhibit Pakistani fashion on the ramp.

The splendid cultural presentation received appreciation by the German audience. A German participant Dr. Laura said she finds the designs and embellishments on the Pakistani dresses very vibrant. “It can bring more colour and vibrancy to the German fashion.”

Approximately 600 people attended the event ranging from German parliamentarians, senior foreign office officials of several missions, CEOs & Businessmen, students and media representatives.