WASHINGTON, Aug 19 (APP): The Pakistani embassy held a colorful Chand Raat gathering as Pakistanis and Americans got together on the occasion that marked the culmination Ramadan on the eve of Eid ul Fitr. The lively evening, hosted by Ambassador Sherry Rehman, attracted families including spouses and children of Pakistani-Americans, senior American officials from various departments, writers, think tank experts and journalists alike.
The breaking (Iftar) of the last fast of the holy month of Ramadan, coupled with a display of Pakistani culture, cuisine and customary rites with ladies and young girls getting gifts of bangles from the embassy and also having the best designs of hina (Mehndi) painted on their hands. Famous Pakistani singer Waris Baig and his son Amaar Baig enthralled the audience with their popular numbers.
Welcoming the participants, Ambassador Rehman said the festive gathering reflected the Pakistani-American community’s zeal and enthusiasm for the occasion. “Such occasions also provide an opportunity to showcase the breezy Pakistani culture, which is full of life, fun, art, traditions, customs and color,” she later said. She particularly praised the spirit. with which the young Pakistanis attended the festive occasion.
Time Lenderking, Director Pakistan Affairs at the State Department, said he was pleased to attend the evening. ‘I think it was a wonderful evening, lots of good energy and spirit, many families have come out, I have brought my daughters here to experience this night, it is all lit up and the food is good, so it is wonderful for everyone to experience a little bit of Pakistan here in Washington”, he said.