In a significant move to amplify regional culture, Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani announced plans to modernize the PTV Multan Centre, aiming to better showcase the unique identity of South Punjab on both national and international platforms.
Speaking on Wednesday at the 61st-anniversary ceremony of Pakistan Television (PTV) at its Multan station, Gilani praised the national broadcaster as a custodian of the country’s diverse cultural, linguistic, and literary heritage.
‘PTV Multan Centre will serve as a pivotal platform to highlight the unique heritage of South Punjab,’ the Chairman stated, emphasizing the strategic importance of the upgrade.
Recalling his enduring connection with the state-run channel, Gilani reminisced about its golden-era dramas, which he said were admired across Pakistan and even in India. He shared that the popularity of these programs, which served as a source of hope for prisoners, motivated him to establish the PTV Multan Centre during his time as Prime Minister.
‘The establishment of PTV Multan marked a milestone in promoting the region’s civilization, Saraiki language, music, and literary heritage,’ Gilani remarked, advocating for providing more opportunities to emerging artists, poets, and writers from the area.
Drawing a parallel between local history and global diplomacy, the Senate Chairman mentioned his recent visit to Azerbaijan, where a 700-year-old ‘Multan Caravanserai’ stands preserved. This, he noted, reinforces the city’s historical significance and prompted his proposal to declare historically important locations as ‘sister cities’ to strengthen cultural ties.
Gilani concluded that institutions like PTV are vital in shaping Pakistan’s national narrative, cultural identity, and soft power, and he urged that all necessary measures be taken for their continued development.
The event was attended by Director Programmes Saif-ud-Din, General Manager PTV Multan Shafqat Abbas Malik, renowned singer Suraiya Multani, Malik Haider Usman Advocate, Shakir Hussain Shakir, and a large gathering of local dignitaries, journalists, and citizens.