Islamabad (Staff Reporter) :
The federal capital witnessed a grand celebration of Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day, marked by a spectacular ceremony titled “Battle for Truth and Independence Day” held at Jinnah Sports Stadium. The event was graced by the presence of President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir as chief guests.
Also in attendance were Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Information Minister Atta Tarar, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, First Lady Asifa Bhutto Zardari, and Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb. High-ranking officials including Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, and ISPR DG Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry were present as well.
Top military leadership — including the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, the Naval and Air Chiefs — along with ambassadors from friendly nations, federal ministers, members of parliament, and a large number of citizens also participated.
The ceremony featured a spectacular march past by the bands of Pakistan’s three armed forces — Army, Navy, and Air Force — joined by Punjab Rangers and FC Khyber Pakhtunkhwa units. The arrival of the national flag was met with standing ovation and heartfelt salutes from the audience. The color guard’s display received great applause.
Significantly, military contingents from Azerbaijan and Türkiye also took part in the march past, symbolizing international solidarity.
Across the country — from Islamabad and Lahore to Peshawar and smaller towns — preparations for Independence Day were in full swing. Major public and private buildings were decorated with national flags, buntings, and colorful lights. Street stalls offered flags, badges, shirts, and patriotic merchandise, drawing eager crowds.
In Punjab, celebrations have taken on a unique tone this year, with a special tribute planned for the martyrs and veterans of the “Battle for Truth.” In Lahore, preparations for state-level events are near completion, with iconic venues like Hazuri Bagh and Minar-e-Pakistan showcasing visible signs of festivity.
Poets and writers have also become active, with literary gatherings and patriotic poetry recitals underway. University students are participating in sketching competitions, plays, and sports events. Citizens emphasized that Independence Day is not just a celebration but a tribute to national unity, sacrifice, and patriotism — sentiments being expressed this year with heightened enthusiasm and pride.
