The nation is celebrating the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan today with renewed patriotic fervour, made even more significant by the country’s recent victory in Marka-e-Haq, a decisive military operation against India. Across the country, streets, cities, and public spaces have turned green and white, resonating with the spirit of freedom and unity.
Day Begins with Gun Salutes and Special Prayers
Festivities started at dawn with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad, while each provincial capital witnessed a 21-gun salute. Special prayers were offered in mosques nationwide, seeking peace, solidarity, and lasting prosperity for Pakistan.
Government offices, public spaces, and private buildings have been illuminated and decorated with national flags, buntings, and colourful lights. Vendors in markets and streets are selling flags, caps, and green-and-white apparel, while rooftops and vehicles proudly display the national emblem.
Flag-Hoisting and Defence Exhibition in Islamabad
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led the central flag-hoisting ceremony in Islamabad. The highlight of the celebrations is a grand defence exhibition at Shakarparian Parade Ground, scheduled for 10am. The event is showcasing the operational capabilities of the Pakistan Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The exhibition features tanks, artillery, rocket launchers, radars, armoured carriers, and aircraft that played key roles in Marka-e-Haq under Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos. Visitors will also enjoy a Pakistan Air Force flypast, para-jumping demonstrations, cultural performances, and military band displays.
Officials say the exhibition aims to give the public an up-close look at the country’s defence strength while instilling national pride on this historic day.
Cultural Events Across the Capital
The Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI), in collaboration with cultural organisations, has arranged a series of cultural programmes to mark the day. Traditional dance troupes from all provinces will perform at public venues in the evenings, with professional arrangements for lighting, sound, and seating.
MCI officials said the events are designed to “entertain and showcase Pakistan’s cultural diversity,” emphasising unity in tradition. Art exhibitions, musical evenings, and children’s competitions are also part of the day’s festivities, adding colour and variety to the celebrations.
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Lok Virsa Hosts Mega Azadi Festival
Lok Virsa is hosting Islamabad’s largest Independence Day festival, offering a mix of music, food, cultural heritage, and family entertainment. The programme includes:
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A Mili Naghma competition
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An Azadi Concert
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Artisan workshops and folk theatre performances
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Marka-e-Haq tribute exhibitions with photographs and paintings
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A lantern countdown to midnight on Independence Day
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Ethnic food stalls and shopping areas
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Brass band performances and folk dances
Entry is free, ensuring accessibility for all segments of society. Organisers expect a record turnout as families gather to celebrate national pride in a festive atmosphere.
Kashmiris Join in Celebrations
Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control are also observing Independence Day and celebrating Pakistan’s victory in Marka-e-Haq. People in Jammu and Kashmir have reiterated their pledge to work for Pakistan’s safety, unity, and prosperity. They have described Pakistan as their “ultimate destination” and vowed to continue their struggle for self-determination.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, rallies, cultural events, and flag-hoisting ceremonies are taking place alongside prayers for the country’s strength and the liberation of Indian-occupied Kashmir.
Nationwide Security Measures
Law enforcement agencies have tightened security in major cities, particularly at public venues hosting Independence Day programmes. Additional police personnel, checkpoints, and surveillance systems are in place to ensure peaceful celebrations.
Security officials said they are closely monitoring public gatherings, with emergency services on standby in case of any untoward incident.
A Day of Unity and Resilience
From the streets of Karachi to the valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistanis are marking this Independence Day with renewed unity, pride, and gratitude. The recent success in Marka-e-Haq has added a sense of victory and resilience to the celebrations, reminding citizens of the sacrifices made for the country’s sovereignty.
The 78th Independence Day of Pakistan serves as a reminder of the nation’s journey, its struggles, and its determination to safeguard freedom. As festivities continue throughout the day, the spirit of unity is stronger than ever, reflecting the enduring bond between the people and the homeland.
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