Nation Celebrates 76th Independence Day With Renewed Zeal

LAHORE MIRROR — As Pakistan celebrates its 76th Independence Day on August 14 (today), the nation is brimming with excitement and eager to pay tribute to the relentless struggle of our forefathers and national heroes in their quest for a separate homeland.

President Arif Alvi, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) President Asif Ali Zardari, and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari extended heartfelt congratulations to the nation on the occasion of 76th Independence Day.

The day commenced with special prayers for the country’s prosperity and unity, an apt prayer given the turmoil on the political and economic fronts.

Moreover, a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in all provincial capitals were made as a tribute to the country that has weathered many a storm.

In a moving moment, the country then resounded with sirens at 7:58am, heralding the grand flag-hoisting ceremony at 8am.

Mosques across the country reverberated with early morning prayers for prosperity, solidarity, and peace.

As the country marks the day with a national holiday, various public and private sector departments are geared up to host a range of special functions and activities, including seminars, discussions, photographic exhibitions, artistic displays of paintings and poetry, national song renditions, and vibrant debate competitions to reflect on the monumental feat achieved 76 years ago.

The spotlight today will be on recognising the tireless contributions of the leaders of the Pakistan Movement and the sacrifices made by national heroes and ordinary people as they fought for sovereignty and a right to self-determination in a time, even when the odds were against them.

Streets and avenues of the federal capital and other cities have already turned into a sea of colours — especially green — and people adorn their houses, cars, and streets with flags, banners, and buntings, creating an ambiance of festivity that is sorely needed.

Prominent public and private edifices are aglow with illuminations, commemorating this significant occasion.

Print and electronic media, on this day, pay tribute to the indelible contributions of Pakistan’s heroes, paying homage to their extraordinary dedication.

Police across the country have finalised traffic management plans for the convenience and safety of the general public as people throng public spaces such as parks, malls, markets, and beaches to celebrate the day, mingling with each other.

Literary and cultural organisations, including the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), have chalked out a number of programmes to mark the day’s significance.

However, no one is as excited on this day as children, the country’s biggest asset and its future.

To engage these excited little ones and to educate them about the significance of the day, private and public educational institutions will hold different activities, including competitions, functions, and sessions to educate students about the historical struggle behind the creation of Pakistan.

Cities across the country have turned green and white colour with Jashan-i-Azadi stalls carrying dresses, flags, buntings, pin badges, toys, and other decorative accessories to attract youngsters and children.

Moreover, different brands, online retailers, eateries, cab-hailing services, and even electronics companies have offered exciting discounts, adding to the festivity.