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Pakistan Day: How & Why is it Celebrated in Pakistan, the US & Worldwide

15 Mar 2023 - Category: Blog /
pakistan day

Pakistan day, otherwise known as Pakistan Resolution Day, Republic Day, or Yaum-e-Pakistan by locals, is a day of celebration throughout the South Asian country. Every year, on March 23rd, the 231.4 million people that make up the population of Pakistan celebrate the birth of their country. Rejoicing alongside them are the worldwide Pakistani diaspora, including those in nearby countries and Pakistani-Americans. In this article, we’ll be exploring the origins of Pakistan Day alongside how and why it’s celebrated.

Contents

When is Pakistan Day?

Every year, Pakistan Day is held on March 23rd. In 2023, Pakistan day will fall on a Thursday.

Why is Pakistan Day celebrated?

Annually, March 23rd marks the commemoration of the founding of Pakistan as a sovereign nation-state. This revolutionary movement took place in 1940 when the All-India Muslim League adopted the Lahore Resolution, demanding a separate nation for Muslims. They wished to put an end to the ongoing dispute between Muslims and Hindus in what was then northern India. The Lahore Resolution was successful, leading to the drawing of new borders, which resulted in the establishment of Pakistan.

When was Pakistan Day first held?

The first Pakistan Day parade was held in Karachi on March 23rd, 1956, which was the capital at that time. It is now held at Constitution Avenue in Islamabad, which is the current capital of Pakistan.

How is Pakistan Day celebrated in Pakistan?

On Pakistan day, there’s an essence of pride and community that spreads across the country. Each town hosts its own celebrations, with many people traveling to experience the larger festivities of Pakistani cities.

At dawn on Pakistan day, Pakistan’s national flag is hoisted on public and governmental buildings. A 31-gun salute in Islamabad and a 21-gun salute in provincial capitals are fired. A change of guard occurs at the mausoleums of legendary poet & thinker Allama Iqbal in Lahore and founder of Pakistan Quaid-e-Azam in Karachi.

Further recognizing noteworthy Pakistani figures, an award ceremony is held every Pakistan day, during which the nation’s president gives military and civilian awards to recognize achievements and worthy contributions to Pakistan.

On March 23rd, Pakistan Day festivals, national songs, Resolution Day speeches, and debate competitions are held. Special prayers are offered in mosques, ceremonies, on TV and radio for peace and prosperity in Pakistan.

How Long Did It Take To Build Minar-e-Pakistan?

Minar-e-Pakistan is a statue that was designed in honor and commemoration of the Pakistan Resolution. The tower was built between 1960 and 1968 in Lahore and has become central to Pakistan Day celebrations, with many Pakistanis leaving flowers at its base on March 23rd.

How is Pakistan Day celebrated in the US?

Across the USA, Pakistani Americans organize special events to commemorate their home country or country of heritage. These events include gatherings, feasts, parties, debates, and even prayer group gatherings.

The United States Department of State also recognizes the day annually, paying homage to American-Pakistani relations.

If you would like to join the celebrations this year but you are not able to travel to meet your loved ones you can always send money to Pakistan using the Small World app or website. 

Small World offers a range of payout options to cater to the needs of overseas Pakistanis/non-resident Pakistanis, enabling them to remit funds to their families for support. Our instant bank deposit service facilitates the transfer of PKR to any bank in Pakistan, including but not limited to Habib Bank Limited (HBL), United Bank (UBL), Allied Bank, Meezan Bank, and other financial institutions. 

Remember, all customers enjoy a FREE first transfer with our service  and no transfer fees to Pakistan on transactions over $100 (US) - for selected partners.


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