DLP Report
D.I KHAN
The much-anticipated “Derajat” was inaugurated with a grand ceremony held at the Ratta Kulachi Stadium in Dera Ismail Khan. The event commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, the national anthem, and a vibrant cultural display.
The colorful opening ceremony featured traditional games, folk music, parades, a cattle show, fireworks, exhibitions, and awareness stalls set up by various government departments. A Tourism Information Desk was also established by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture & Tourism Authority and the Directorate of Archaeology to facilitate visitors.
A large number of spectators attended the opening ceremony and expressed keen interest in the cultural festivities. The chief guest of the event was Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Sports, Syed Fakhar Jihan. Other notable attendees included MNAs Faisal Amin Gandapur and Dawar Kundi, MPA Usman Bhittani (Tank), City Mayor Umar Amin Gandapur, Secretary Sports Zia-ul-Haq, Director General Sports Abdul Nasir Khan, Deputy Commissioner Sarah Rehman, along with officers from the district administration and government departments.
Addressing the audience, Sports Minister Syed Fakhar Jihan highlighted that the festival is being held with renewed enthusiasm and commitment due to the personal efforts of Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Khan Gandapur.
He emphasized that the event aims to promote provincial culture and traditions while reviving indigenous sports. He further added that national sports competitions are also part of the festival, which will now be held annually.
MNA Faisal Amin Gandapur visited various stalls and remarked that organizing the festival on an annual basis is vital for preserving regional traditions and historical heritage. He stated that such events help strengthen inter-provincial and inter-district cultural harmony.
He added that Dera Ismail Khan is known for its hospitality and cultural richness, and all necessary measures have been taken to welcome visitors from across the country.
Deputy Commissioner Sarah Rehman said that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the peaceful and enthusiastic conduct of the Derajaat. The festival truly represents the region’s heritage, culture, and customs, she added. Facilities for spectators have been fully arranged, and all departments are actively performing their duties.
It is noteworthy that the Derajat festivity includes a wide array of cultural, sporting, and recreational activities. As one of the largest events of its kind in the province. The opening ceremony featured parades, a cattle show, PT demonstrations, fireworks, animal exhibitions, horseback riding, and a marching display.
Participants and enthusiasts from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as well as other provinces are actively taking part in Derajat. Given its geographical position at the confluence of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Balochistan, Dera Ismail Khan holds strategic importance.
The Derajat not only promotes a positive image of the region but also serves to preserve and celebrate its culture, history, and traditions while enhancing inter-cultural and regional harmony.
