Celebrating Pakistan Independence Day: Honoring 77 Years of Freedom and Unity
Every year on the 14th of August, Pakistan Independence Day is celebrated, to reflect the nation’s journey and getting their freedom from British rule way back in 1947. Pakistan’s Independence Day, also known as Youm-e-Azadi in Urdu is a time to remember the past, and look forward to a bright future. This year, Pakistan will be celebrating its 78th birthday. It’s a day of joy, unity, and hope, for all Pakistanis no matter where they are in the world. 14 August is a national holiday in Pakistan to celebrate the special occasion.
Celebration Held in Pakistan on Youm-e-Azadi
- Pakistan's Independence Day is a national holiday filled with festivities. The day starts with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital, Islamabad, and flag hoisting. The national anthem is sung in different private and government residences such as schools, and offices. Different activities are held at schools and universities such as firework shows, poetry competitions, art exhibitions, and street parades. Food stalls are decorated and offer a number of delicious Pakistani cuisines, allowing people to taste the rich flavours of their heritage.
- On this special occasion streets, roads, and homes are decorated with national flags. Shops and stalls are filled with national flags, banners, and badges of national flag colours, which are green and white. People proudly wear green attire, reflecting the colour that symbolizes Islam. Traditional music fills the air, with amazing performances of Bhangra and Sufi music
- Independence Day is not just about celebration; it's also a time for self-observation and remembering all the brave souls who fought for their freedom. Special speeches are delivered by the prime minister and president to reflect the sacrifice of our great leaders. Award ceremonies are held to recognize the contributions of each person who has served the nation.
- Moreover, even Pakistanis who live in other countries celebrate! They have special events where they raise the flag, eat Pakistani food, and share pictures to celebrate the Youm-e-Azadi.
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History of Pakistan’s Independence Day
India and Pakistan will be having their 78th Independence Day this August and will mark the 77th year of freedom from British rule in 2024. In 1947, the Indian Independence Act of 1947 created two new independent nations which are India and Pakistan. The idea of a separate Muslim state gained attention under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the All-India Muslim League.
The founding father of Pakistan, Mohammed Ali Jinnah, declared that 15 August would be the independence day for Pakistan in his historic radio. It reflects the several sacrifices made by great people for their homeland. There is enough evidence that Pakistan became independent on the same day as India did. Then why do they celebrate their Independence Day on 14th August? For so many years, different assumptions have been made but we don’t know the exact theory.
Not after so long, in 1948, only 13 months after becoming a governor-general of independent Pakistan Mohammed Ali Jinnah died. Being the only decision-maker for the whole nation, he handled the country very nicely during those difficult months.
The Separation of Pakistan
The campaign for Indian independence began with the Indian Mutiny (1857-59) and increased after World War II (1939-45), as Indians expected self-government for their wartime contributions. However, inter-communal violence between Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims complicated matters.
In 1945, the newly elected British government aimed to grant independence and hoped for a united India. Despite multiple talks, the mainly Hindu Indian National Congress and the Muslim League couldn’t reach a common solution. After a failed conference in 1946, Muslim League leader Muhammad Ali Jinnah called for ‘direct action’ to create a Muslim state.
In August 1946, six British battalions were deployed in Calcutta (now Kolkata) to restore order, but the violence spread to Bombay (now Mumbai), Delhi, and the Punjab.
Eventually, the British decided on partition. On 2 June 1947, the last Viceroy, Lord Louis, announced that India would be divided into mainly Hindu India and Muslim Pakistan, including West Pakistan and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
Promoting Unity and Progress
It’s not all just about fun and games. Pakistanis also think about how their country can be even better. The nation reflects on its achievements and acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. This day encourages Pakistanis to work together to build a stronger and more successful nation. The future of Pakistan depends on its youngsters. Educational institutions can play a crucial role by organizing debates, essay writing competitions, and art exhibitions to encourage Pakistan’s history and future. They can learn about their history and work together to solve problems.
