DERA ISMAIL KHAN: A poetry recitation session was held on Friday night at District Auditorium as part of Derajat Festival.

The event witnessed participation from approximately 30 poets, including both locals and guests, who captivated the audience with their verses.

The gathering drew a large number of poetry and literature enthusiasts along with notables including the director of sports department, Nimatullah Marwat, the deputy director, Jamshed Baloch, the regional sports officer, Raziullah Bitani, the assistant commissioner, Mohammad Fasih Ishaq Abbasi, local elders and journalists.

Fasih Ishaq Abbasi also recited a few verses, which were warmly received by the audience and appreciated fortheirliterary depth.

Addressing the audience at the conclusion of the event, tehsil mayor Umar Amin Khan Gandapur extended his heartfelt thanks to all the participating poets, especially the guest poets, who travelled from other parts of the province to participate in the event. He extended support to such literary gatherings in the future and lauded the inclusion and active participation of female poets in the event.

`It is a matter of pride and joy to see women participating in various events including tent pegging, horse riding, arts and literature. Their presence adds immense value to our cultural landscape,` he said.

The mayor also commended the organising team for its dedication in making the event a success and lauded the assistant commissioner, Fasih Ishaq Abbasi, for his active involvement and poetic contribution.

The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and medals among all participating poets in recognition of their contributions.