Honoring Quaid-e-Azam on His 148th Birth Anniversary
News Desk
Islamabad: Pakistan celebrated the 148th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah with immense pride and enthusiasm, reflecting on the legacy of the leader who made the dream of an independent Muslim homeland a reality.
Tributes poured in from all corners of the country, emphasizing his pivotal role in Pakistan’s creation and his enduring vision for its future.
From Karachi to Islamabad, citizens and leaders paid homage to Jinnah’s leadership, which led to the creation of Pakistan. The founder’s unwavering commitment to securing Muslim rights in the subcontinent continues to serve as an inspiration.
Across the country, the significance of his leadership was highlighted by various political and civic leaders, including a poignant reflection on his tireless efforts to establish a free and independent state for Muslims.
The Quaid’s Mausoleum
In Karachi, the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam became the focal point of the celebrations. The mausoleum stands as a lasting symbol of Jinnah’s enduring legacy.
It houses the Quaid-e-Azam Memorial Museum, which offers a window into his personal life and achievements.
The museum showcases items that once belonged to Jinnah, including personal clothing, furnishings from his study and relaxation rooms, and even cars used during his leadership.
Alam Sheikh, the resident engineer of the mausoleum, pointed out that some of the most remarkable artefacts are the cars that Jinnah used during his political career, providing a unique insight into his daily life.
The celebrations stretched beyond Karachi.
In Multan, a massive cake weighing 217 pounds was prepared to mark the occasion. The gesture symbolized the collective spirit of Pakistan in commemorating the founding father’s vision.
Jinnah’s Unmatched Political Insight
Professor Naeem Khalid, an education expert, reflected on Jinnah’s political foresight, noting his unmatched leadership qualities that played a central role in the formation of Pakistan.
“On August 14, 1947, the dream became a reality, and Pakistan emerged as a new nation,” Khalid said, adding that Jinnah’s health suffered as he dedicated himself fully to the struggle for Muslim rights, ultimately passing away in 1948.
Preserving History at Golra Railway Station
In Islamabad, the historical Golra Railway Station became part of the day’s celebrations, housing the historic railway saloon once used by Quaid-e-Azam. This saloon, used by Jinnah during his travels in 1945, is carefully preserved as a piece of history.
Waheed Mehmood, a gallery assistant, explained that the saloon, with its meeting rooms, kitchen, and servant’s quarters, offers visitors a glimpse into Jinnah’s life on the road.
Many young visitors expressed their admiration for Jinnah’s dedication to the nation, emphasizing the importance of teaching future generations about the nation’s founding principles of unity, faith, and discipline.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam’s principles, stressing that they are crucial for Pakistan’s success in overcoming present-day challenges.
Bugti called for unity, urging the country to adhere to Jinnah’s vision in order to strengthen Pakistan both against external threats and internal divisions.
Forces Reaffirm Jinnah’s Ideals
In a moving gesture, Pakistan’s Armed Forces also commemorated Jinnah’s birth anniversary, reaffirming their commitment to his principles of unity, faith, and discipline.
The military’s tribute underscored the continued relevance of Jinnah’s vision in shaping the future of the nation.
The day also coincided with Christmas celebrations, a reminder of the shared values of peace, compassion, and unity that both the Christian holiday and Jinnah’s leadership embody.
President Asif Ali Zardari extended greetings to the Christian community, urging Pakistanis to continue working towards a democratic, inclusive, and prosperous country, in alignment with the vision set forth by Jinnah.
Jinnah’s Vision
As Pakistan marked the 148th anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the celebrations highlighted not just his monumental role in the creation of Pakistan, but also his lasting influence on the nation’s identity and values.
From Karachi’s mausoleum to Islamabad’s railway station, the day was a reminder of the unity, faith, and discipline that continue to guide the nation forward, inspired by the vision of its founding father.
