Pakistan celebrating 70 years of Independence

Pakistan  is all set to celebrate the 70th Independence day, today  with great patriotic zeal through paying tributes to the national heroes for their sacrifices and pledging to work for the country’s prosperity.

Independence Day observed annually on 14 August, is a national holiday in Pakistan. It commemorates the day when Pakistan achieved independence and was declared a sovereign nation following the end of the British Raj in 1947. The main Independence Day ceremony takes place in Islamabad, where the national flag is hoisted at the Presidential and Parliament buildings. It is followed by the national anthem and live televised speeches by leaders. Usual celebratory events and festivities for the day include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and the playing of patriotic songs. 

President Mamnoon Hussain has granted military awards to the officers and men of Pakistan Army, Navy and Air Force in recognition to their gallantry services, in connection with Independence Day’ celebrations.

The patriotic citizens have started decorating their homes and vehicles with national flags, bunting and stickers to give the final touches to their preparations of Azadi day.

The Independence Day celebrations would start with Flag hoisting ceremonies at government and private organizations in the morning time followed by national anthem and prayers for country’s progress.

Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) will organize week-long programmes including tableaus, skits, national songs and folk dances as part of cultural show.

While colourful puppets will portray the history of the Pakistan Movement in the form of stories to grab the attention of the children and educate them about their history.

Besides depicting the culture and traditions of the country, such shows also educate the youth regarding the struggle of freedom fighters through soft expressions of art, said an official of PNCA.

Azadi Train which is one of the striking features of Independence Day celebrations has began its month long journey from Margalla Station Islamabad on Thursday.

The train, comprises over 17 coaches, would exhibit different aspect of Pakistan’s culture and also highlight sacrifices of heroes of the Independence movement and armed forces for the country’s defence.

Pakistan Post will issue a commemorative stamp on August 14 on great social worker Abdul Sattar Edhi to pay tribute to his services.

Special Independence Day cake cutting ceremony will take place at the Pakistan Monument Museum today.