While there's no single definitive answer to the question of which city is the heart of Pakistan, Lahore is frequently referred to as the cultural heart of the country.
Lahore: The Cultural Heart of Pakistan
Lahore, the second-largest city in Pakistan and the capital of Punjab province, is widely considered the cultural center. This is due to its rich history and significant contributions to Pakistani arts, cuisine, festivals, music, film, and intellectual life. Multiple sources support this designation:
- Lowy Institute: Describes Lahore as a "stunning old city and is widely considered to be the cultural capital of Pakistan." https://www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/lahore-heart-pakistan
- Wikipedia: Lists Lahore's nicknames, including "The Heart of Pakistan," highlighting its cultural significance. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lahore
- COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus: Refers to Lahore as the "cultural heart of Pakistan" due to its role in hosting various artistic and cultural events. https://lahore.comsats.edu.pk/campuslife/city-info.aspx
- Cambridge University Press: A publication refers to Lahore as the "cultural heart of Pakistan" in its chapter on urbanization in South Asia. https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/urbanisation-in-south-asia/lahore-the-cultural-heart-of-pakistan/AD42C5B5FCBC9D77DCAE19D0A6A15597
It's important to note that other cities, like Islamabad (the capital), play crucial roles in Pakistan's political and administrative life. However, based on the available information and common usage, Lahore holds a strong claim as the cultural heart of Pakistan.
