17th KLF

The three-day Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) will be held from 6 to 8 February 2026 at the Beach Luxury Hotel, Karachi.

This year, KLF reflects on the times we are living through—times that are deeply troubled and uncertain, when international affairs, national economies, planetary ecology, and even the rapid pace of technological change seem to be spinning out of control. These are fragile times, and KLF seeks to examine the role of the writer within them. Therefore, this year’s theme is ‘Literature in a Fragile World’ Our discussants will explore whether the subtleties and nuances of literature are mere self-indulgence in disturbed and uncertain times, or whether poets, authors, critics, and other writers have a real role to play.

Additionally, there will be sessions on KLF’s customary wide range of subjects, including the latest developments and trends in Pakistani and global literature in English and Urdu, media and entertainment, education and scholarship, intellectual life, and everyday life. As always, KLF 2026 will foster thought‑provoking discussions in an environment that promotes openness, pluralism, and intellectual discourse. This year’s KLF will also celebrate outstanding writing through a total of two literary awards for Pakistani authors, which will be announced at the opening ceremony. The awards, dedicated to Urdu fiction and English fiction, are being generously supported by Getz Pharma Pvt. Ltd., whose continued encouragement of literary excellence adds a special dimension to the festival.

The 17th KLF brings together a diverse group of writers, thinkers, and literature enthusiasts. It features several international authors, including: Sam Dalrymple, who will discuss the consequences of the imperial partitions that formed new countries and created upheavals and conflicts in Asia; Laline Paull, novelist and creator of dystopian visions of the future; Richard Susskind, who will explain how to think about Artificial Intelligence; Sorina Zainea, Romanian educational expert; Madeline Clements, British literary scholar; and celebrated novelist and commentator Mohammed Hanif. They will share their stories and ideas, exploring major trends and critical issues of our times.

Visitors can look forward to KLF’s signature Mushairas in English and Urdu, as well as book launches from both new and established authors. There will be over 75 sessions, including 30 book launches, featuring a blend of Urdu and English. The invigorating conversations that define KLF will, of course, be ever‑present. As in previous years, there will also be performances, feature films, and a series of short independent film screenings.

All sessions will be live‑streamed on OUP’s social media channels.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Beach Luxury Hotel on 6, 7, and 8 February. No registration is required—simply come and join us!