A Look At Some Key Facts About Pakistan Day

The day is observed on March 23 every year to commemorate the passage of Lahore Resolution 1940

Islamabad (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 23rd March, 2019) The nation is celebrating Pakistan Day today with a commitment to ensure progress, prosperity and a strong defense of the country.

The day holds special importance in the living history of Pakistan.

Here are some facts about this day:

Lahore Resolution

The day is observed on March 23 every year to commemorate the passage of Lahore Resolution on this day in 1940 when the Muslims of the Sub-continent set the agenda of a separate homeland for themselves.

Republic Day

Pakistan day was initially called Republic Day. The word ‘Pakistan’ was never used but the Lahore Resolution is considered a major milestone in the Muslim struggle for an independent state in undivided India.

Pakistan Day Parade

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

Minar-e-Pakistan

Minar-e-Pakistan built in Iqbal Park, Lahore was built to venerate the Lahore Resolution. Minar-e-Pakistan was constructed in Lahore in 1966.

It was completed in 1968 on the site where the ‘Pakistan Resolution’ was passed in 1940. This monument symbolizes a blossoming flower and reflects the blissfulness of independence.

Award Ceremony

An award ceremony is organized where the president gives military and civilian awards to recognize recipients’ achievements and contributions to Pakistan.

Public Holiday

Pakistan Day is a public holiday. Government offices, banks, post offices, educational institutions and businesses are closed, except for some multinational organizations.

Public transport is also limited on this day, and may be completely unavailable on certain routes. Many people visit recreational spots on Pakistan Day, so traffic congestion is common in big cities.

Other features of Pakistan Day

Pakistan’s national flag is hoisted on public and governmental buildings at dawn on Pakistan Day.

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 Allama Iqbal in Lahore and Quaid-e-Azam in Karachi, followed by garlands being laid.