Islamabad : Pakistan is commemorating the 149th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Father of the Nation, today (Thursday), with a renewed commitment to the values of Faith, Unity, and Discipline that shaped his vision for the country.
The day is being observed as a public holiday across the country.
The celebrations began at dawn with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in all provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered after Fajr prayers at mosques for the soul of the ‘Father of the Nation’ and for the peace, prosperity, and development of Pakistan.
In honor of the occasion, the national flag has been raised on public and private buildings nationwide. In Karachi, a Qur’an Khawani is being held at Mazar-e-Quaid, where a ceremony to change the guards is also taking place to pay tribute to the founder of the nation.
Born in Karachi on December 25, 1876, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah emerged as the central figure in the Pakistan Movement, leading the historic struggle that culminated in the creation of an independent homeland for Muslims in the Subcontinent.
A distinguished lawyer who later became a prominent political leader, Jinnah led the All-India Muslim League from 1913 until the creation of Pakistan. After independence, he served as Pakistan’s first Governor-General until his death on September 11, 1948.
Known for his sharp intellect and firm resolve, Quaid-e-Azam confronted British colonial authorities, including influential viceroys, and challenged the political strategies of Indian National Congress leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. His leadership ultimately paved the way for the partition of British India, which led to the creation of Pakistan and India in 1947.
To honor his legacy, various events, including seminars, discussions, and exhibitions, have been organized by government institutions and civil society groups, focusing on different aspects of his life, leadership, and achievements.
Additionally, state-run and private television and radio channels are broadcasting special programs, interviews, and analytical segments, revisiting key moments from the independence movement and highlighting the pivotal role played by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in the creation of Pakistan.
