Every year, as Independence day draws near, Pakistan’s streets come alive with the green and white of the national flag.
From the busiest city roads to small neighbourhood lanes, every corner hums with 14 August excitement.
Ahead of August 14, 2025, from jail, Imran Khan issued a fiery call to the nation: without restoration of the Constitution and rule of law, real independence would remain elusive. He urged collective sacrifice to reclaim democracy from the present “fascism.”
While the day holds a special meaning for all Pakistanis, for low-income families it is more than just a public holiday.
It is a rare chance to step away from the daily grind, spend time together, and celebrate in warm and colourful ways.
Pakistan is celebrating its 79th Independence Day today with a renewed pledge to uphold the spirit of the Pakistan Movement and transform the country into a true Islamic welfare state.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in provincial headquarters. Special prayers were offered in mosques for peace, prosperity, and national solidarity.
The main flag-hoisting ceremony took place at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad.
This year’s celebrations are marked with extra fervour following Pakistan’s recent victory in Marka-e-Haq against India’s unprovoked aggression.
Government buildings, streets, and homes have been decorated with national flags, buntings, and lights.
Many citizens have displayed the flag on their vehicles and rooftops.
Radio Pakistan is airing special programmes to mark the occasion.
In Gujranwala, the days before independence Day turn the city’s main areas into a lively fair.
Roadsides in Model Town, Rahwali, Gulshan Colony, GT Road, Pindi Bypass, and People’s Colony fill with stalls selling flags of all sizes, green bangles, paper buntings, colourful “bajay” (plastic trumpets), and clothes for children printed with the crescent and star.
For many low-income households, these affordable items are their way of joining the celebration.
A flag for the rooftop, a set of bangles for the girls, or a little green T-shirt for the youngest child is enough to feel part of the spirit.
On the day itself, families head to places like Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park for picnics.
Parents pack simple home-cooked meals, sometimes a pot of biryani or parathas wrapped in newspaper, and spread a cloth under the shade of a tree.
Children run around blowing bajay while the elders sit back and talk about the meaning of the day.
For those in Rahwali, the outing often ends with a stop for the famous Rahwali kulfi, a sweet and icy treat that brings instant joy without costing much.
