Pakistan marks 78th Independence Day with grand ceremony in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: A special ceremony to mark Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day began in Islamabad on Wednesday. President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir attended the event as chief guests.

The celebrations include a parade of the armed forces, a flypast and special national and cultural performances that highlight the country’s military might, rich heritage and unity. Dignitaries and citizens alike from the federal capital and beyond are witnessing the grand display.

From Islamabad to Lahore, Peshawar and to small towns and villages, the nation is abuzz with patriotic fervor. Major government and private buildings are decorated with national flags, banners and vibrant lights, while roads, shops and homes reflect the festive spirit. Markets are bustling as people shop for Independence Day merchandise, including green and white flags, badges, shirts, toys and stickers.

In Karachi, the Sindh government organized a grand musical concert at the National Stadium, which formally began with the national anthem. Renowned artists like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Sajjad Ali, Hadiqa Kiani, Kaifi Khalil, Leram Band, Arsalan Sheikh, DJ Saqlain and Natalia Gul entertained the audience. The event was attended by important political, social and cultural figures including Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, President Arts Council. The concert concluded with fireworks and a cake cutting ceremony. Sharjeel Memon, Saeed Ghani, Nasir Shah, Zulfiqar Shah and Riaz Shah Shirazi arrived at the stadium, along with Consul Generals of various countries. The people of Karachi participated with great patriotic fervor.

In Lahore, preparations are underway at famous places like Huzuri Bagh and Minar-e-Pakistan, with public parks and recreational areas decorated for the occasion.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa organized a special Independence Day ceremony for minority communities at the Mardan Commissioner Office, while preparations were in full swing in Karak. In Azad Kashmir, colorful celebrations were held at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir in Muzaffarabad and a “Shuhada Aizaz March” was held in Mirpur.