Photo released by Information Department of Sindh shows cadets march at the mausoleum of the founder of Pakistan Muhammad Ali Jinnah during a ceremony in southern Pakistani port city of Karachi on Dec. 25, 2022. Pakistan on Sunday celebrated the 146th birthday of Jinnah. (Information Department of Sindh/Handout via Xinhua)
ISLAMABAD, Dec. 25 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan on Sunday celebrated the 146th birthday of the founder of Pakistan Muhammad Ali Jinnah who led the suppressed Muslims of the Indian subcontinent against the British occupation to get a separate homeland in 1947.
Jinnah, born on Dec. 25, 1876, was given the title of Quaid-e-Azam (the great leader) by the Muslims of the Indian subcontinent for his services to get a separate homeland. Following the foundation of Pakistan on Aug. 14, 1947, Jinnah also served as the first governor-general of the country until his death on Sept. 11, 1948.
Observing the birthday of the founding father of the nation with traditional zeal and fervor, the Pakistani people paid rich tributes to his dedicated struggle and leadership.
The day started with the hoisting of the national flag at major government buildings and with special prayer ceremonies for the security, progress and prosperity of the country.
Public and private departments were holding different events, including seminars, conferences, exhibitions, competitions and discussions to recall the messages, vision, ideals and views of the father of the nation.
A change of guard ceremony was held at his tomb in the southern port city of Karachi where cadets from the Pakistan Military Academy took over guard duties from the Pakistan Air Force.
On the occasion, Pakistani President Arif Alvi expressed his gratitude and reiterated the nation's commitment to always cherishing and upholding Jinnah's vision for Pakistan.
"We pledge ourselves to take the right decisions at the right time and ensure the continuation of policies to create stability in the country," said the president.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, in his message, called on the nation to take guidance from Jinnah's life and follow his principles for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan. ■