Pakistan is commemorating the 148th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.
The change of guard ceremony at Quaid’s mausoleum in Karachi marked the start of the celebrations. Worshippers across the country offered special prayers in mosques, seeking Pakistan’s prosperity, unity, and progress.
All provincial capitals began the day with a 21-gun salute, while officials raised the national flag at prominent public and private structures to honour the Father of the Nation.
Various special events will occur throughout Pakistan, i.e., exhibitions, seminars, debates, conferences, and cultural gatherings. These activities emphasize Quaid-e-Azam’s vision for a progressive, inclusive, and democratic Pakistan while showcasing his life, achievements, and struggles.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif honoured Quaid-e-Azam with glowing tributes, urging the nation to follow his ideals for a self-reliant and democratic Pakistan.
President Zardari, in his message, said:
“Jinnah’s dream of a peaceful and moderate Pakistan obliges us to promote harmony within and beyond our borders.”
He called for upholding social justice, economic equity, and the rule of law, adding that investing in youth education is key to achieving Quaid’s vision.
The president also highlighted Quaid-e-Azam’s leadership, noting how he advocated for Muslims’ rights as a lawyer, statesman, and leader of the All-India Muslim League.
“Quaid-e-Azam’s address to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on August 11, 1947, remains a guiding light for our nation.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Quaid-e-Azam as a leader of exceptional caliber, stating:
“Today, we celebrate the legacy of a visionary, principled, and courageous leader who gifted us our homeland — Pakistan.”
He emphasized that Quaid’s life remains an inspiration as a lawyer, statesman, and charismatic leader.
“Quaid-e-Azam once said, ‘Failure is a word unknown to me.’ True to his words, he achieved the impossible with relentless resolve.”
The PM reiterated Quaid’s vision for a Pakistan where every citizen, regardless of faith or ethnicity, could live with dignity, equality, and freedom.
Both leaders encouraged the nation to draw strength from Quaid-e-Azam’s legacy.
“Let us reaffirm our commitment to his values and work tirelessly for Pakistan’s progress, unity, and prosperity,” the prime minister remarked.
