Karachi( The COW News Digital) Pakistan marked its 79th Independence Day today with nationwide celebrations filled with patriotism and reverence. The day began with ceremonial gun salutes, Qur’an recitations, prayers, and the prestigious Guard Change Ceremony at the Mazar-e-Quaid, paying tribute to the Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
In Karachi, the central ceremony saw cadets from the Pakistan Naval Academy take over the duties of the ceremonial guards. This annual tradition, observed on August 14 each year, is a symbolic military salute to the founder of Pakistan.
According to Express News, the event’s chief guest was Commodore Tasawar Iqbal, Commandant of the Pakistan Naval Academy, while the parade was commanded by Lieutenant Samiullah. The ceremony featured a flawless march-past and a well-coordinated drill by the naval cadets, reflecting discipline and respect.
Following the parade, Commodore Iqbal laid a floral wreath at the Mazar-e-Quaid and offered Fateha, paying homage to Jinnah’s leadership and vision.
The Independence Day proceedings began in Islamabad with a 31-gun salute, while each provincial capital marked the morning with 21-gun salutes. The thunderous sounds, accompanied by chants of “Allahu Akbar,” resonated across the cities, symbolizing the nation’s sovereignty, honor, and the unwavering readiness of the Pakistan Armed Forces.
The gun salute is regarded as an emblem of national pride and military readiness, reminding citizens of the sacrifices made for independence and the ongoing commitment to defend the nation.
Special Qur’an Khwani sessions and collective prayers were organized in mosques nationwide. After the Fajr prayer, religious scholars led special supplications for the country’s stability, unity, prosperity, and development.
In their sermons, scholars emphasized gratitude for the blessing of freedom and highlighted the need for unity, solidarity, and sacrifice in preserving the nation’s independence. They urged citizens to honor the vision of Pakistan’s founders through national harmony and civic responsibility.
As the celebrations continued, public spaces, government buildings, and landmarks were adorned with the national flag and decorative lights. The spirit of freedom was felt not just in Pakistan but also among overseas communities, where embassies held special flag-hoisting ceremonies.
Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day served as a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and a call for continued unity in safeguarding the nation’s values and sovereignty.
