About

Join us for an evening dedicated to literature in Pahari-Pothwari, the invisible mother tongue of around 60% of British Pakistanis, with its rich and ancient tradition of sung verse and oral storytelling.

Bringing together poets and writers from across the country, the 5th Mushaira celebrates our shared heritage through poetry, storytelling and spoken word. This gathering offers a space to hear established and emerging voices, reconnect with language and memory, and experience Pahari-Pothwari poetry’s power to connect communities, preserve memories, and inspire new creative voices.

From lyrical verses of love incorporating every tree in Kashmir, to translations of Shakespeare’s sonnets, raw verses on migration and current affairs and ghazals of longing, you will leave with your hearts full and smiling.

Whether you are a lifelong speaker of Pahari-Pothwari or discovering its literary traditions for the first time, this event offers a warm welcome to all.

It is a family event suitable for children of ages eight and above, in partnership with Ilkley Literature Festival

There will be a break and refreshments