Pakistan is celebrating its 71st Independence Day with big celebrations across the country. CPSC wishes its Pakistani colleagues a warm and auspicious commemoration of this event.

History

Independence Day is observed annually on 14 August, is a national holiday in Pakistan, commemorating the day when Pakistan achieved independence and was declared a sovereign nation, following the end of the British Raj in 1947. Pakistan came into existence as a result of the Pakistan Movement; the Pakistan Movement aimed for creation of an independent Muslim state by division of the north-western region of the South Asia and was led by All-India Muslim League under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The event was brought forth by the Indian Independence Act 1947 in which the British Indian Empire gave independence to the Dominion of Pakistan (later the Islamic Republic of Pakistan) which included the West Pakistan (present Pakistan) and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).

In the Islamic calendar, the day of independence coincided with Ramadan 27, the eve of which is regarded as sacred by Muslims. The main ceremony takes place in Islamabad, where the national flag is hoisted at the Presidential and Parliament buildings, which is followed by the national anthem, and live televised speeches by leaders. Usual celebratory events this day include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and the playing of patriotic songs. A number of award ceremonies are often held on this day, and citizens often hoist the national flag atop their homes or display it prominently on their vehicles and attire.

2018 Celebrations

(from RS-News.com) Capital buildings have been illuminated and events are planned to celebrate 14th August 2018 with full zeal and fervor. Special functions, seminars, exhibitions, debate, poetry competitions will be held all over Pakistan.

Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) and Lok Virsa will organize exhibitions. Folk dance performances and different activities will be held to attract the people.To attract the youth stalls will be set up selling Pakistan’s flags, badges, Azadi dresses, accessories and much more.

Pakistan Super League franchise Peshawar Zalmi announced ‘Azadi Cup’ tournament to celebrate Independence day. Peshawar Zalmi chairman Javed Afridi said, “The prime objective of holding the event is to mark the Independence Day celebrations and provide a platform to the youth to showcase their talent yet again.” The tournament will start from 7th August and the final will be held on 14th August.

In Lahore the Lahore Division Arm wrestling Association is organizing the 9TH All Pakistan Independence Day Celebration Armwrestling Championship 2018 at BK Hall, Near PSO Petrol Pump Main Sanda Road Lahore. It will be held on 19th August under Pakistan Armwrestling Federation supervision. An amazing campaign has been started by renowned journalist and social worker Iqrar ul Hassan to plant 1.4 million trees in Pakistan for 14th August.

In Islamabad, stalls have been set up on roadsides. As a local said, “The stalls set up on the roadside area in the G-7 Markaz have become center of attraction for most of the people.”

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