ISLAMABAD: T1he country will observe the 149th birth anniversary of Pakistan’s founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, with a renewed commitment to his core principles of faith, unity, and discipline. The day has been declared a public holiday across the nation.
The observance will begin with gun salutes in the federal and provincial capitals, accompanied by special prayers at mosques after Fajr for the soul of the Father of the Nation, as well as for the country’s peace, progress, and stability. All public and private institutions will display the national flag in honor of the occasion.
At Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi, the day will feature Qur’an Khawani, a ceremonial changing of guards, and other commemorative activities. Born in Karachi in 1876, Muhammad Ali Jinnah dedicated his life to leading the movement for a separate homeland for Muslims in the Indian subcontinent, culminating in the creation of Pakistan.
A distinguished lawyer and politician, Jinnah served as the leader of the All-India Muslim League from 1913 until independence, and then as Pakistan’s first Governor-General until his passing in 1948. His astute political strategies outmaneuvered colonial Viceroys and prominent Indian leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, ultimately securing Pakistan’s independence in 1947.
Numerous events, including seminars, debates, and exhibitions, are being organized nationwide to celebrate his life, achievements, and leadership. Radio Pakistan is broadcasting a series of special programs discussions, interviews, and reports—highlighting different facets of the independence movement and Jinnah’s pivotal role in shaping Pakistan.
