ISLAMABAD, August 7, 2026: Pakistan’s cultural landmarks, historic sites and living traditions were showcased through the work of 85 photojournalists at the 16th annual exhibition organised by the Rawalpindi Islamabad Photo Journalists Association at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts.
Held in collaboration with Al Sadat Group, the exhibition was titled “Culture and National Heritage of Pakistan — Our Identity, Our Pride.” It featured images documenting centuries-old monuments, religious sites, forts, archaeological remains and scenes from everyday life across the country.
Federal Minister for Culture and National Heritage Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Senate Standing Committee on Defence Chairman Senator Talha Mahmood, Al Sadat Group Chairman Syed Sadat Shah and Philippine Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Emmanuel attended the event. RIPJA President Sajjad Haider presided over the exhibition.
Photojournalists Document Pakistan’s Heritage
Photojournalists from Rawalpindi and Islamabad displayed images of several historically significant locations, including Ban Faqiran Stupa, Pharwala Fort, Mai Qamro Mosque, Rawal Fort, Shah Allah Ditta Caves, the tomb of Sultan Muqarab Khan and Kuri Pavilion.
The exhibition also featured the British-era memorial, Rehara Mosque, a Hindu temple near Rawal Dam and the Korang River railway bridge, which was constructed in 1914.
Organisers said the photographs included six heritage sites already protected by the federal ministry, four undergoing the protection process and three identified by RIPJA for preservation.
Alongside architectural and archaeological heritage, the exhibition highlighted Pakistan’s living culture through images capturing local communities, traditional practices and daily life.
Ministry Announces Grant and Heritage Partnership
Speaking at the event, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said Islamabad was home to more than 10 officially recognised heritage sites representing the region’s history and cultural legacy.
He said restoration and conservation projects had been initiated to preserve the landmarks for future generations.
“These heritage sites are not just monuments but a vital part of Pakistan’s identity and pride,” the minister said.
Khichi announced a grant of Rs500,000 for RIPJA and said the ministry would sign a memorandum of understanding with the association to promote Pakistan’s cultural and national heritage.
Support Announced for Photojournalists
Senator Talha Mahmood described photojournalists as the “eyes of the nation” and praised their role in documenting events, people and heritage.
He also announced that equipment would be provided for the association’s media room.
Syed Sadat Shah appreciated the photographers for promoting Pakistan’s culture through visual storytelling. He announced an annual grant of Rs300,000 for RIPJA and said modern photography courses would be arranged for its members.
The Philippine ambassador said the exhibition reflected Pakistanis’ strong connection with their cultural heritage. He added that the embassy would work with RIPJA to organise a future exhibition in Islamabad showcasing the culture and heritage of the Philippines.
RIPJA Highlights 23 Years of Activities
RIPJA President Sajjad Haider said the association had organised a range of professional and cultural activities during the past 23 years.
He said the organisation had distributed laptops, mobile phones, camera bags and cash awards worth around Rs10 million among photojournalists.
Haider said RIPJA was prepared to collaborate with the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage to increase public awareness of heritage sites and promote them among Pakistani citizens and foreign visitors.
At the conclusion of the event, Al Sadat Group and the Talha Mahmood Foundation presented professional camera bags to RIPJA members. Shields were also awarded to distinguished guests.
Also Read: KP launches Rs47bn development programme for merged districts
Today's E-Paper