| Independence Day | |
|---|---|
The flag of Pakistan, at the mount of the National Monument in Islamabad. |
|
| Also called | Youm-e-Azaadi |
| Observed by | Pakistan |
| Type | National |
| Date | August 14 (August 14 in 1947) |
| Celebrations | Flag hoisting, flying kites, award ceremonies, singing patriotic songs, entertainment and cultural programmes, mass marches, speeches, distribution of presents in schools etc. |
Pakistan's independence day (Urdu: یوم آزادی or Youm-e-Azadi) is observed on 14 August, the day before Pakistan was made an independent country based on border lines created by the British during the end of their rule of India. Pakistan became an independent country in 1947. The day is a national holiday in Pakistan. The day is celebrated all over the country with flag raising ceremonies, tributes to the national heroes and fireworks taking place in the capital, Islamabad. The main celebrations takes place in Islamabad, where the President and Prime Minister raise the national flag at the Presidential and Parliament buildings and deliver speeches that are televised live. In the speech, the leaders highlight the achievements of the government, goals set for the future and in the words of the father of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, bring "Unity, Faith and Discipline" to its people.[1][2][3][4]
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14 August is a National holiday of Pakistan. In the capital Islamabad and in all major cities of Pakistan the Government Offices are lit up as well as all the larger skyscrapers. Flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs take place in all the provincial capitals. In the cities around the country the Flag Hoisting Ceremony is done by the Nazim (Mayor) belonging to that constituency. In various private organisations the Flag Hoisting Ceremony is carried out by a Senior officer of that organisation. Schools and colleges around the country organise flag hosting ceremony and various cultural activities within their respective premises. Families and friends get together for lunch or dinner, or for an outing. Housing colonies, cultural centres, and societies hold entertainment programmes and competitions.
Other events include: Changing of the guard at the mausoleum of Mohammed Ali Jinnah, Mazar-e-Quaid, Wagah Border ceremonies, fashion and musical concerts, both sides releasing prisoners that may have crossed each others borders.