Islamabad – Pakistan celebrated its 79th Independence Day on Friday with national spirit and traditional fervour. Flag hoisting, rallies and special events were organised in different parts of the country.
The day began with special prayers in mosques for the security, stability and prosperity of the country. A 31-gun salute was given in the federal capital, while a 21-gun salute was given in the provincial capitals.
Government buildings, highways and important places in major cities, including Islamabad, were decorated with national flags and green and white lights. Citizens participated in various events along with their families.
Flag-hoisting ceremonies were held in various cities, including Lahore in Punjab. Government and private buildings, parks and major highways were also decorated.
Citizens hoisted the national flag in various areas, including Karachi in Sindh. A special changing of the guards ceremony was also held at the Quaid-e-Azam mausoleum, which is one of the important traditional activities of Independence Day.
In Balochistan, Independence Day celebrations were also held in various districts. National flags were hoisted in many areas,areas, including Chaman, Kohlu, Hub, Qila Abdullah, Pishin, Gwadar, Ziarat and Khuzdar.
In Nokundi, youth participated in the activity with a long national flag. This demonstration highlighted national solidarity and youth participation.
Programmes were held at educational institutions and various historical places in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Speakers discussed the objectives of the establishment of Pakistan and the role of youth in the country’s development.
National flag hoisting and other activities were also organisedorganised in Gilgit-Baltistan on the occasion of Independence Day. Tributes were paid to those who sacrificed their lives for Pakistan in various ceremonies.
Celebrations were also held in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on the occasion of August 14. Children took out a rally at Barar Kot in Muzaffarabad.
A cake was cut at the Divisional Teaching Hospital in Mirpur on the occasion of Independence Day. Tree plantation was also done on the hospital premises, which gave a social aspect to the ceremony.
Citizens also participated in various programmes in other areas, including Neelam, Samahni, Nakiyal and Bhimber. People prayed for the security and prosperity of the country.
Tributes to the martyrs were also prominent in the Independence Day celebrations. Speakers at various places recalled the services of those who sacrificed their lives for national security.
August 14 is celebrated as a national holiday in Pakistan every year. On this occasion, government institutions, educational centres and public organisations organise various programmes.
Messages of national unity, peace and development were also prominent in this year’s celebrations. In their messages, the president and prime minister stressed the need for unity and reform to address the challenges facing the country.
Nighttime fireworks and public gatherings in Islamabad added to the festive mood. Families and youth dressed in green and white attended celebrations at various venues.
A common thread in the activities across the country was the expression of national identity and solidarity. However, the significance of Independence Day is not limited to celebrations alone.
The significance of the day is also linked to the determination of citizens and institutions to play their part in making Pakistan a strong, peaceful and developed state. This aspect makes Independence Day a reminder of national responsibility rather than a mere formality.
