Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistanis are celebrating the country’s 79th Independence Day today (Friday) with traditional enthusiasm and national spirit, as commemorative events are taking place in cities and towns across the country.
The day dawned with 31-gun gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute at provincial headquarters.
Special prayers were offered in mosques after Fajr prayer for peace, solidarity and prosperity of country.
The nationwide celebrations began with change-of-guard ceremonies at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi and Mazar-e-Iqbal in Lahore.
President Asif Ali Zardari hoisted the national flag at a special ceremony in the federal capital. Similar flag-hoisting events were held at provincial, divisional and district headquarters throughout the country.
Public and private buildings, roads, markets and other prominent locations have been decorated with national flags, buntings and colourful lights, creating a festive atmosphere across cities.
A variety of activities, including seminars, exhibitions, cultural programmes and other events, have been arranged to mark the occasion, celebrate the spirit of independence and remember the sacrifices made by the country’s founding generation.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has also released a national song, “Mera Pyara Watan Pakistan,” to mark Independence Day. The song conveys themes of patriotism, affection for the homeland and national unity.
State and private television and radio channels are airing special programmes highlighting the struggles and achievements of the leaders and heroes of the Pakistan Movement, while paying tribute to their exceptional contributions to the creation of the country.
Alongside Independence Day celebrations are also being observed with enthusiasm in Azad Jammu and Kashmir alongside the rest of Pakistan.
In Muzaffarabad, day commenced with a 21-gun salute at the state capital. Special prayers were offered after Fajr for peace, national solidarity and prosperity, as well as for the early liberation of Indian-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. (IIOJK).
Flag-hoisting ceremonies were organised across all districts of AJK, while the AJK prime minister will lay a floral wreath at the Shuhada monument.