23rd March is celebrated every year as Pakistan Day. 81 years ago, our forefathers gathered in Lahore to declare their vision for an independent state for Muslims of the Indian subcontinent. After years of pursuing attempts to forge Hindu-Muslim unity against British rulers, the Muslim League leadership realized that Hindus would emerge as the new rulers of the Indian subcontinent. Realizing this, poet Allama Iqbal envisioned a separate homeland for Muslims in the Western part of the Indian subcontinent. Iqbal presented his dream during his famous address in Allahabad in 1930.
Ten years after the Allahabad address, Muslim League leadership gathered in Lahore to present a historic resolution, demanding a separate Muslim state. The Muslim League session was attended by Muslims of the Indian subcontinent. During the gathering, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and other founding fathers explained to the public about the events which had resulted in divisions between Hindus and Muslims. In this regard, a historical resolution was moved by Abul Kashem Fazlul Huq, who is also known as Sher-e-Bangla. The resolution called for an independent Muslim state without even mentioning the name of Pakistan.
However, pro-Hindu newspapers started referring to the resolution as ‘Pakistan Resolution’, and hence the resolution was popularly became known as ‘Pakistan Resolution’ instead of its actual name i.e. Lahore Resolution. In order to commemorate the historical event, a 60-m tall Minar-e-Pakistan monument in the shape of a minaret was built at the site in Iqbal Park (formerly Minto Park), where the resolution was passed.
The main event of Pakistan Day is held annually in Islamabad. The chief guest of the event is the President of Pakistan. Moreover, the Prime Minister, Cabinet Minister, and Chairman Joint Chief of Staff also join the audience.
Later in the evening, the President of Pakistan confers National Awards and medals to awardees at the Presidency. On rare occasions, foreign dignitaries are invited to attend the military parade. Moreover, foreign military contingents are also invited to participate in the annual parade. Pakistani embassies, consulates, and high commissions all around the world also host different ceremonies including a Flag Hoisting Ceremony to mark the special occasion. Wreaths are also laid on the mausoleums of Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Ms. Ghazal Akkas
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