Every year Valentine's Day draws a mixed response from people, with some supporting it and others celebrating it but a few protesting against its observance.

This year seems no different, as on one hand people are excited about the day while some are staging protests and moving the court against it.

But amid all this, the people who benefit nonetheless are the shopkeepers and vendors. Hawkers selling heart-shaped balloons stake out street corners and florists do a brisk trade.

Despite it is termed a Christian holiday, Valentine's Day has gained popularity among Pakistanis, with flower vendors reporting booming sales this year, as in recent years.

However, in Peshawar, members of the district assembly on Friday had unanimously passed a resolution to ban Valentine's Day celebrations.

“A particular segment of our society wants to impose Western values and culture on our youth by celebrating Valentine's Day,” said the resolution, which was presented by a member of Jamaat-i-Islami.