Pakistan celebrated the 148th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah with great enthusiasm, honoring the leader who played a pivotal role in the country’s creation. The nation united to recognize Jinnahβs exceptional leadership and vision, which led to the establishment of a separate homeland for Muslims in the subcontinent.
In Karachi, the Quaid-e-Azamβs mausoleum stood as a symbol of his enduring legacy. It houses the Quaid-e-Azam Memorial Museum, displaying personal belongings and items from his life, including Pakistani and European garments, as well as furniture from his study and relaxation rooms, reflecting his simplicity and determination.
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Alam Sheikh, the resident engineer, highlighted the museumβs significant artefacts, such as the cars used by Jinnah during his leadership.
While Karachi was a focal point of the celebrations, the entire country marked the occasion. Political and civic leaders across Pakistan paid tribute to Jinnahβs struggle for an independent state. In Multan, a giant 217-pound cake was prepared in honor of the occasion. Professor Naeem Khalid spoke about Jinnahβs political insight and leadership, noting how his efforts led to the creation of Pakistan, a reality achieved on August 14, 1947. Unfortunately, Jinnahβs health deteriorated from his relentless fight for Muslim rights, and he passed away on September 11, 1948.
In Islamabad, the Golra Railway Station became part of the celebrations, showcasing a historic railway saloon once used by Jinnah during his travels. This saloon, preserved since 1945, provides a glimpse into the leader’s life, featuring meeting rooms, a kitchen, and servant quarters. Visitors, especially young ones, were inspired by the saloon, reflecting on Jinnahβs dedication to Pakistan and the importance of passing on the countryβs history and values of unity, faith, and discipline to future generations.
Balochistanβs Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti emphasized the relevance of Jinnahβs principles in tackling Pakistanβs current challenges. He urged the nation to unite and adhere to Jinnahβs vision to strengthen the country against both internal and external challenges. The Armed Forces also paid tribute to Jinnah, reaffirming their commitment to his ideals.
On the same day, the country celebrated Christmas, with President Asif Ali Zardari extending greetings to the Christian community, highlighting the shared values of peace and compassion between Christmas and Jinnahβs leadership. He called for continued progress towards a democratic and prosperous Pakistan, aligned with the vision of its founding father.