On Wednesday, Pakistan marked its 78th Independence Day with a profound sense of tradition and national pride, reflecting the enduring spirit of the Pakistan Movement.
The day was filled with ceremonial activities aimed at honoring the nation’s rich history and reaffirming its commitment to becoming a true Islamic welfare state.
The celebrations kicked off with a 31-gun salute in the Federal Capital, followed by a 21-gun salute at provincial headquarters. At dawn, special prayers were offered in mosques across the country, invoking peace, solidarity, and prosperity for Pakistan.
A central feature of the day was the national flag hoisting ceremony in Islamabad, which was replicated at provincial, divisional, and district headquarters nationwide.
In tandem with the flag hoisting, state broadcasters Radio Pakistan and Pakistan Television devoted their programming to celebrating the heroes of the Pakistan Movement, paying tribute to those who played crucial roles in the country’s creation.
City streets were abuzz with displays of national pride, as roadside stalls offered flags, badges, stickers, and clothing for both adults and children. Public buildings were festooned with national flags and illuminated with vibrant lights, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
In his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the ongoing violence in Gaza, noting that the Independence Day celebrations were overshadowed by the atrocities committed against Muslims in the region.
“The joy of our Independence Day has dimmed due to the barbaric actions inflicted on our Muslim brothers and sisters in Gaza,” he stated, expressing concern over the international community’s silence on the matter.
Despite these solemn reflections, the spirit of Independence Day was marked by a strong display of national unity and pride, celebrating Pakistan’s journey and its commitment to its foundational values.
