Mumtaz Hussain
NEW YORK, Nov 3, 2025: The Pakistani-American community in New York came together to celebrate Gilgit-Baltistan’s rich cultural heritage and its accession to Pakistan at the much-anticipated GB Cultural Fest and Day of Accession.
The event, organized by the Soni Watan Organisation of Gilgit-Baltistan, served as both a celebration of the region’s traditions and a reflection on its critical role in Pakistan’s history.
The celebration drew a large and diverse crowd with community members, dignitaries and guests all coming together to honor GB’s contribution to Pakistan’s unity and development.
Aamer Ahmad Atozai, the consul general of Pakistan in New York, who attended as the chief guest, praised the efforts of the Gilgit-Baltistan diaspora in promoting the region’s culture and Pakistan’s national identity on the global stage.
In his speech, the consul general emphasized the importance of GB in Pakistan’s socio-political landscape, underscoring how the region’s unique cultural identity is integral to the fabric of the nation. He pointed out that events like this one are instrumental in strengthening ties between overseas Pakistanis and their homeland, helping to foster a sense of pride and unity.
“Preserving our cultural heritage while living abroad is crucial,” he remarked, “and these gatherings play an essential role in bridging generations and geographies.”
The festival itself was a colorful and vibrant showcase of GB’s artistic and cultural legacy. Traditional music performances filled the air with the sounds of the region’s folk tunes with musicians playing indigenous instruments like the sitar and rubab.
Dancers performed spirited attan and other regional dances, bringing the crowd to their feet. An array of exhibitions also highlighted GB’s rich handicrafts, including intricate Pashmina shawls, vibrant embroidery and handcrafted jewelry that tells the story of the region’s artisans and their centuries-old traditions.
A special highlight was a photo exhibition showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan, ts towering peaks, lush valleys, and serene lakes, which helped attendees feel a deeper connection to their homeland. Visitors were also invited to explore the food stalls offering traditional dishes, where they could taste delicacies like Chapshuro (a meat-filled pastry) and Gushtaba (a rich, spiced meatball dish), further immersing themselves in the region’s cultural richness.
Throughout the event, it became clear that this celebration was not only about honoring GB’s past but also about looking toward the future. The festival underscored the importance of keeping GB’s traditions alive and ensuring that younger generations of overseas Pakistanis remain connected to their roots. It also served as a reminder of the role that diaspora communities play in enriching the cultural tapestry of their adopted countries while simultaneously preserving their unique heritage.
As the event came to a close, the sense of unity among the attendees was palpable. Many expressed their pride in being part of such a dynamic and thriving community, reaffirming their commitment to preserving GB’s cultural identity for generations to come.