KARACHI: Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori inaugurated 14-day celebrations titled “Ma’arka-i-Haq — Jashn-i-Azadi” here on Friday at the Governor House to mark the Independence Day.

The event featured a flag-hoisting ceremony, the launch of a special patriotic song and unveiling of a unique logo. Bands from the Pakistan Army, Navy and Air Force paid tributes with ceremonial performances.

The ceremony concluded with cake cutting and a grand fireworks display amid chants of “Pakistan Zindabad” echoing in the air.

The event was attended by consuls general from several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Russia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Malaysia, Indonesia, and others.

Addressing the audience, the governor stated that the celebrations would continue till Aug 14, and that the Independence Day 2025 will be marked with even greater enthusiasm and national unity this year. Referring to the recent Indian aggression, he said the attack had united the nation and rekindled a spirit, courage and determination among Pakistanis.

Rally staged to launch celebrations

Sindh Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani has announced that this year’s Independence Day festivities will be observed with exceptional fervour and enthusiasm from Aug 1 to 14, celebrating not only Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day but also the country’s recent military success against India, which he described as the “Battle of Truth”.

Speaking at the conclusion of a rally organised by the Karachi commissioner from Peoples Chowrangi to the Mazar-i-Quaid, Ghani said the recent military triumph had elevated Pakistan’s image worldwide and deterred any external threats. “By Allah’s grace and the courage of our armed forces, humiliation was destined for India and victory for Pakistan. No power in the world can even think of attacking Pakistan now,” he declared.

The rally saw participation from various political and social organisations, schoolchildren, scouts and NGO representatives. Attendees waved Pakistani flags as they marched to the mausoleum of the nation’s founder.

Mr Ghani announced that the province would host thousands of events during the two-week celebrations, featuring rallies, cultural programmes, fireworks, poetry recitals, sports tournaments and special gatherings in honour of national heroes and the families of martyred soldiers.

He said three major mega events would be organised in Karachi, Hyderabad and Sukkur, along with competitions to decorate homes, markets, vehicles and motorbikes, with awards for the best displays.

Published in Dawn, Aug 2nd, 2025