BIRMINGHAM, UK – 4 August 2025 – Spirit of Pakistan, a seven-day national celebration of British-Pakistani contributions to the UK, is set to launch this Friday, 8th August, in Birmingham. The event, running until August 15th, will showcase the rich heritage and immense impact of the British-Pakistani community, the UK’s second-largest ethnic minority group, with over 1.6 million individuals.
A special launch dinner will take place in Birmingham on Friday, with dignitaries including the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, the Mayor of the West Midlands, the Pakistan High Commissioner, Members of Parliament, and civic, business, academic, and public sector leaders from across the country.
The celebration aims to highlight the community’s significant contributions to all aspects of British life, including business, politics, and public service. While these achievements are often recognised, the impact of British Pakistanis in the arts, culture, sports, and heritage is frequently overlooked. Spirit of Pakistan seeks to shine a light on both established figures and rising talent.
“The British-Pakistani community is a vital and integral part of the UK’s cultural landscape, and this event is a testament to that,” said Bukhtawar Mir, Head of Chancery at the Consulate of Pakistan Birmingham. “We are thrilled to see this celebration come to life, offering a powerful platform to showcase the creativity, resilience, and unique identity of British Pakistanis.”
Councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE JP, Chair of the Spirit of Pakistan, emphasised the event’s importance, stating, “For too long, the incredible contributions of British Pakistanis in areas from the arts to athletics have not received the national recognition they deserve. Spirit of Pakistan is our opportunity to shine a spotlight on this vibrant community and celebrate their invaluable impact on British society.”
He added, “We are immensely proud to host all our events in Birmingham, a city that is not only a central hub but also home to the UK’s second-largest Pakistani community. It’s the perfect backdrop to showcase the immense talent, rich traditions, deep heritage, and spirited dynamism of British Pakistanis.”
The program promises a diverse range of events for all ages, including:
- Saturday, August 9th: An Evening with Mazhar Rahi, a Pakistan Bazaar, Tourism Workshop, Geet Kahani, Truck Art Workshops, and a Pakistan Cultural Fashion Show.
- Sunday, August 10th: Morgah Memories: A Photo Exhibition by Mukhtar Dar.
- Monday, August 11th: An exciting celebration at the Mango Festival on Soho Road and a special Independence Day Cricket Match: Pakistan High Commission’s XI vs. Birmingham Stars at Pickwick Cricket Club in Moseley.
- Tuesday, August 12th: Qawwali in the Sun at the Outdoor Theatre at the Midlands Arts Centre.
- Thursday, August 14th: A Flag Raising Ceremony and an Independence Day Reception.
- Friday, August 15th: The week culminates with an Aston Villa Academy v Pakistan Street Kids Team Football Match and a Performance Finale.
This celebration is more than just an acknowledgment; it’s a vital opportunity to bridge cultural gaps and demonstrate the boundless creativity and enduring legacy of the Pakistani community.
“Spirit of Pakistan will be an unforgettable experience, enriching the UK’s cultural landscape for all, right here in the heart of Birmingham,” Councillor Zaffar concluded.
