The nation is celebrating its 78th Independence Day with unprecedented patriotic fervour, further amplified by the recent landmark victory in Marka-e-Haq — a decisive military success achieved under Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos against India.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered nationwide for Pakistan’s peace, stability, and prosperity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led the central flag-hoisting ceremony at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, where he paid tribute to the sacrifices of the founding fathers, martyrs, and armed forces. The ceremony was accompanied by a grand defence exhibition at Shakarparian Parade Ground, showcasing tanks, artillery, rocket launchers, radars, armoured carriers, and aircraft that played vital roles in Marka-e-Haq. The event also featured an impressive PAF flypast, para-jumping displays, and military band performances.
Across the country, streets, markets, and public buildings are adorned with national flags, buntings, and decorative lights. Vendors have set up stalls selling green-and-white flags, caps, and patriotic merchandise, while vehicles and rooftops proudly display the national emblem.
Cultural celebrations are also in full swing, with the Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) organising traditional dance performances representing all provinces, along with art exhibitions, musical evenings, and children’s competitions. Lok Virsa is hosting Islamabad’s largest Independence Day festival, including a Mili Naghma contest, Azadi Concert, artisan workshops, folk theatre, and Marka-e-Haq tribute galleries featuring photographs and paintings. The festival also offers ethnic cuisine, shopping stalls, play areas for children, and free public entry.
In Kashmir, people on both sides of the Line of Control are marking the day with renewed pledges for self-determination, calling Pakistan their “ultimate destination” and vowing to work for its strength and unity.
Security has been heightened across major cities to ensure peaceful celebrations, as the nation comes together to commemorate independence, unity, and resilience.
