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Pakistan Independence Day: The Birth of a Nation

© AP Photo / Faereed KhanPeople perform first Friday prayer during the Muslims holy fasting month of Ramadan, in a mosque, in Karachi, Pakistan, Friday, March 24, 2023.
People perform first Friday prayer during the Muslims holy fasting month of Ramadan, in a mosque, in Karachi, Pakistan, Friday, March 24, 2023. - Sputnik India, 1920, 14.08.2023
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Pakistan proudly celebrates its Independence Day on August 14, marking the day it emerged as a sovereign nation in 1947. This historic event led to the birth of Pakistan as a nation.
The partition of British India in 1947, which gave birth to India and Pakistan, was a complex and tumultuous process. Driven by religious and political aspirations, the demand for a separate Muslim homeland gained momentum, with leaders such as Muhammad Ali Jinnah championing the cause.
Sputnik India takes a look at the foundation of modern Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

What Happened on 14 August 1947?

Pakistan came into existence as a result of the Pakistan Movement, which aimed to create an independent Muslim majority state in the north-western regions of British India via partition. The independence of the country was declared on 14 August 1947.
This partition revived feelings of alienation among Muslims, giving rise to the spirit of nationalism and laying the foundation for Pakistan's birth. This nationhood was forged in the crucible of sacrifice and struggle as millions of Muslims across the Indian subcontinent rallied together braving countless hardships.
The relentless efforts of political activists, freedom fighters, and the masses culminated in the creation of Pakistan. This newfound sense of national identity provided hope, ambition, and the determination to build a nation that would stand on the principles of democracy, freedom, and faith.

Two-Nation Theory and Ideological Foundations

Pakistan's nationhood is deeply rooted in the Two-Nation Theory, which argued that the Hindus and Muslims of the subcontinent comprised two separate nations, distinct in their cultural, religious, and political beliefs.
This theory provided an ideological foundation for the newly formed country, highlighting the necessity of a Muslim majority homeland to safeguard the rights and interests of its people. Hence, when the British Raj over the Indian Subcontinent came to an end, Muslims wanted a separate homeland from Hindus.
The resilience of the Two-Nation Theory, pre and post-independence, helped solidify Pakistan in the face of numerous challenges and setbacks.
© AP Photo In this Sept. 19, 1947 file photo, Muslim refugees sit on the roof of an overcrowded coach railway train near New Delhi in trying to flee India.
 In this Sept. 19, 1947 file photo, Muslim refugees sit on the roof of an overcrowded coach railway train near New Delhi in trying to flee India. - Sputnik India, 1920, 14.08.2023
In this Sept. 19, 1947 file photo, Muslim refugees sit on the roof of an overcrowded coach railway train near New Delhi in trying to flee India.
Pakistan, as a country, comprises a vibrant tapestry of cultures, languages, and ethnicities. It thrives on celebrating this rich diversity, promoting national unity, and embracing a shared heritage that transcends regional disparities.
The national language, Urdu, acts as a unifying force, while the rich traditions of music, arts, literature, and festivals further contribute to the colorful mosaic of Pakistan's nationhood. This unity in diversity can be seen on the Day of Independence each year, when school children dress up in the national dresses of Punjab, Balochistan, Sindh, KPK etc., singing regional songs, but united by one national anthem.

Drawbacks and Impact on Nation-Building

Pakistan's nationhood has been tested by numerous internal and external challenges. Political turmoil, socio-economic issues, regional conflicts, and terrorism have threatened its core values.
Nevertheless, the struggle for a separate homeland has rejuvenated the spirit of the nation, leading hope and determination to prevail over such challenges. It has empowered Pakistanis to work towards a brighter future, seeking socio-economic progress, educational reforms and interfaith harmony.
Pakistan's Independence Day serves as a touching reminder of its birth as a nation and the origins of its nationhood. Rooted in the Two-Nation Theory, this provides a firm basis for unity, diversity, and resilience.
Pakistanis around the world commemorate this day with pride, vowing to uphold their nation's ideals of freedom, faith and progress. People tend to dress up in the colors of Pakistan’s flag, green and white, and visit national monuments like Minar-e-Pakistan and Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s Mausoleum.
© AP Photo / Fareed KhanStudents hold a giant representation of a Pakistani flag to celebrate the 68th Independence Day at the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah
Students hold a giant representation of a Pakistani flag to celebrate the 68th Independence Day at the mausoleum of  Muhammad Ali Jinnah - Sputnik India, 1920, 14.08.2023
Students hold a giant representation of a Pakistani flag to celebrate the 68th Independence Day at the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah
The bazaars come alive with patriotic souvenirs, memorabilia, and national flags. Concerts and festivals are organized across the cities, where people get together to celebrate. Many local channels show patriotic films and dramas evoking memories of the struggles that Pakistanis had to face to achieve a separate homeland.
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