Millions of Pakistanis are celebrating 79 years of Independence Day on Friday, filling the country with vibrant patriotic fervour, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and solemn prayers for the future.
The dawn in Pakistan was ushered in by the boom of a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and a 21-gun salute in the provincial headquarters. Special prayers were offered at mosques across the country for peace, solidarity and prosperity of the country.
The major cities across the country have been transformed into a green and white theme, with the streets and buildings adorned with bunting lights and flags. Special Independence Day ceremonies are also being held in schools, colleges and public institutions.
People from all sectors have expressed their commitment to national unity, peace and development of the country, with President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paying tribute to Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement and all those who gave up their homes, security and livelihoods in the struggle for a homeland.
Fireworks explode during celebrations ahead of the Pakistan´s Independence Day, in Karachi, on August 13, 2026.— AFP
Fireworks explode during celebrations ahead of the Pakistan´s Independence Day, in Karachi, on August 14, 2026.— AFP Lieutenant Commander Pawan Singh of the Pakistan Navy walks with officers of the armed forces after a wreath-laying ceremony to mark Independence Day at the mausoleum of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in Karachi, August 14, 2026.— Reuters
Attendees perform Pakistan’s national anthem during Independence Day celebrations, at the mausoleum of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in Karachi, August 14, 2026.— Reuters
Attendees wave Pakistani flags during Independence Day celebrations at the mausoleum of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in Karachi, August 14, 2026.— ReutersAttendees wave Pakistani flags during Independence Day celebrations at the mausoleum of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in Karachi, Pakistan, August 14, 2026.— ReutersAttendees gather as officials raise Pakistan’s national flag during Independence Day celebrations, at the mausoleum of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in Karachi, August 14, 2026.— Reuters
Commuters move along an illuminated road on the eve of Pakistan’s Independence Day, in Karachi, August 13, 2026. — Reuters
An eye-catching view of fireworks illuminating the night sky over the Federal Capital at midnight during celebrations marking the 79th Independence Day of Pakistan.— APP
An eye-catching view of fireworks illuminating the night sky over the Federal Capital at midnight during celebrations marking the 79th Independence Day of Pakistan.— APP
