HEC Claims Holi Festival Negatively Impacts Country’s Image:
In a letter addressed to vice chancellors and heads of institutions, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) expressed its exception to the celebration of the Hindu festival of Holi at a university. The letter, dated June 20 and sent by HEC Executive Director Shaista Sohail, stated that such celebrations had caused concern and disadvantageously affected the country’s image.
Responsibility of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs):
The letter emphasized that higher education institutions (HEIs) play a crucial role in disseminating knowledge and shaping the youth into cultured individuals. It highlighted the importance of creating a skilled workforce in line with the country’s needs and cultivating responsible citizens capable of contributing to nation-building.
Preserving Cultural Values and Traditions:
HEC stated that its policies are formulated based on concepts embodied in the country’s own culture, values, and traditions, with the aim of preserving the nation’s ideology. It expressed concern over activities that demonstrate a disconnect from socio-cultural values and erode the country’s Islamic identity. The fervor displayed during the celebration of the Hindu festival of Holi was specifically mentioned as an instance that has caused concern and affected the country’s image.
Unidentified University’s Holi Event Draws Attention:
Although the HEC letter did not name the university in question, it follows a recent event hosted by Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad, which gained attention on social media. Videos circulated online depicted students joyfully participating in Holi celebrations, dancing, and throwing colors in the air to the accompaniment of loud music.
Criticism and Backlash Against HEC’s Letter:
The HEC’s stance drew strong criticism from various quarters. Sindhi journalist Veengas argued that Islamabad should acknowledge that Holi and Diwali are part of Sindhi culture, while activist Ammar Ali Jan emphasized the need for the commission to prioritize addressing the dismal state of education in Pakistan. Researcher Ammar Rashid denounced the letter as “vile religious bigotry,” and lawyer Jahanzeb Sukhera deemed the HEC directive illegal, going beyond the commission’s mandate as outlined in the HEC Ordinance.
Call for Inclusive and Tolerant Society:
Supporters of cultural diversity and religious tolerance argued that celebrating diverse festivals can lead to an inclusive and tolerant society that respects all faiths and creeds. Comedian Shafaat Ali pointed out that Holi is a festival native to the region, particularly Multan, and suggested that it could even be promoted as a source of religious tourism in Pakistan.
Read More: KP announces Salary and Pension Increment for Government Employees
HEC’s Letter Prompts Debate on Priorities:
The HEC’s focus on discouraging Holi celebrations instead of addressing pressing educational concerns sparked a wider debate. Critics argued that the commission’s misplaced priorities contribute to the intellectual and moral decay witnessed in Pakistani society. Lawyer Salahuddin Ahmed questioned whether the country can progress toward becoming a “normal country” when such skewed priorities and pervasive idiocy prevail.
The HEC’s letter criticizing the celebration of Holi at a university has ignited a discussion on cultural values, religious tolerance, and the commission’s priorities. While the debate continues, advocates for inclusivity and supporters of cultural diversity emphasize the importance of fostering an environment that respects all faiths and traditions, while also addressing the pressing educational challenges facing the country.
