Lahore, the heart of Punjab province and historic Jacobabad of Sindh province, are renowned for its traditions and culture homes to the ‘Horse and Cattle Show’, a unique cultural event that showcases the unity and solidarity of the nation. It also provides opportunities for social, agricultural and industrial development.
The peaceful movement of sheep and goats, along with the galloping of horses, camels, cows, bulls and other livestock, captivates the spectators, while also stimulating competition among the hardworking farmers from the villages.
Term festival blend of Italian, old French
The term festival, a blend of Italian and Old French, can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman history. The concept of “fest” appeared in the 1200s, while the Spanish word “fiesta” referred to religious celebrations.
Festivals, whether cultural, agricultural or religious, have been an essential part of traditions across the globe. They were often celebrated to mark significant events, such as victories by conquering kings.
Festivals marking the beginning of the New Year, the arrival of spring, harvest time, and other cultural and religious events are also observed. Ancient Egyptian fairs, focused on livestock and agriculture, hold a prominent place in history.
Unique History of Lahore Horse and Cattle Show
The Horse and Cattle Show, first held in 1964 at the Fortress Stadium, is a one-of-a-kind festival.
Past events, particularly in 1979, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1993, 1994, and 1995, attracted interest not only from farmers and livestock breeders but also from the general public. The event featured high-quality horses, camels, bulls, cows, buffaloes, sheep, goats and other livestock from across the province.
These animals were specially prepared for the show to receive recognition from the audience and prizes from the organisers. The show also included various competitions and exhibitions such as hunting dog races, cockfighting, spear throwing, horse dancing, colourful floats, regional dances, fireworks displays, fly-past shows, food stalls and industrial exhibitions, all of which attracted thousands of visitors from Lahore and beyond.
Punjab govt approves Rs 1.5bn for show in 2025
The cabinet of Punjab province had approved the allocation of Rs 1.5 billion for the Horse and Cattle Show in a meeting. The meeting was chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. According to an official statement, the cabinet was asked to approve an expenditure of Rs 1.5 billion for the Horse and Cattle Show 2025, and the approval was granted unanimously. The Horse and Cattle Show, which has been held in Punjab for the last two decades, was initiated by then-Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The Horse and Cattle Show had been inaugurated, with games and other entertainment events for children scheduled from February 13 to 23, 2025. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz attended the inauguration ceremony of the Horse and Cattle Show. The theme of the 2025 Horse and Cattle Show was “Unity, Progress, and Revival of Culture.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif had welcomed Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif upon his arrival at Fortress Stadium. Both arrived in a traditional buggy, while a contingent of four horsemen rode in front of the platform and sought permission to start the Horse and Cattle Show. The special guests formally inaugurated the Horse and Cattle Show 2025. Maryam Nawaz Sharif also inaugurated the fair digitally with a unique handprint.
Colourful event featured exhibition of best buffalo breeds, including Nili Ravi, Sahiwal
The event featured an exhibition of the best buffalo breeds, including Nili Ravi, Sahiwal, and other local Punjabi breeds. Lohi and Mandri sheep, along with Thal, Faisalabad, Gujarati betel, and dancing goats, were also on display. Colourful floats reflecting regional and provincial cultures remained the centre of attention for the audience.
In addition, hundreds of drummers performed traditional regional dances on decorated floats. Drummers playing six drums simultaneously became a major attraction. A mesmerising display of dervish dancing was also presented during the Horse and Cattle Show.
The future Horse and Cattle Show, filled with joy and colours, will instil feelings of happiness and positivity in the hearts of the people, rather than fear.
The enemies of our beloved homeland will be astonished to see what kind of nation we are, a nation that knows how to live with joy, hope and vibrancy. It will present itself to the world with a new, fresh image, in line with the demands of the modern era. And this was not just a statement; it was a reality.
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