Pakistan Independence Day, observed annually on 14 August, is a national holiday in Pakistan. It commemorates the day when Pakistan achieved independence from the United Kingdom and was declared a sovereign state following the termination of the British Raj between the 14th and 15th August 1947. By the time of independence, Pakistan retained King George VI and after 1952, Queen Elizabeth II as head of state until its transition into a republic in 1956. The nation came into existence as a result of the Pakistan Movement, which aimed for the creation of an independent Muslim state in the north-western regions of British India via partition. The movement was led by the All-India Muslim League under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The event was brought forth by the Indian Independence Act 1947 under which the British Raj gave independence to the Dominion of Pakistan which comprised West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). That year the day of independence coincided with 27 Ramadan of the Islamic calendar, the eve of which, one of the five nights on which Laylat al-Qadr may occur, is regarded as sacred by Muslims.
The main Independence Day
ceremony takes place in Islamabad, where the national flag is hoisted at
the Presidential and Parliament buildings. It is followed by
the national anthem and live televised speeches by leaders. Usual
celebratory events and festivities for the day include flag-raising ceremonies,
parades, cultural events, and the playing of patriotic songs. A number of
award ceremonies are often held on this day, and Pakistanis hoist the
national flag atop their homes or display it prominently on their vehicles and
attire.
