United in celebration: Sindh kicks off nationwide Independence Day festivities beyond politics
Adnan Athar
Karachi
Sindh Ministers Saeed Ghani, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, and Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah have stated that Independence Day festivities under the theme of “Maarka-e-Haq” (Battle of Truth) are being celebrated across the country with immense enthusiasm. In Sindh, daily events are being organised in cities and districts through various government departments.
During a media briefing at Karachi’s historic Frere Hall on Thursday, the ministers reviewed preparations for the “Azadi Family Festival” being hosted by the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board from 8 to 10 August. They said the celebrations are being held without political bias and called upon all citizens to unite as one nation, setting aside political affiliations during this moment of national pride. The ministers also announced the commencement of a separate series of events titled “Azadi Quaideen ke Saath,” to be held along Shahrah-e-Quaideen from 11 to 13 August.
The Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani shared that the family festival would run daily from 4 pm to 11 pm and include a food street, a kids’ zone, a mini zoo, various stalls, a magic and pet show, and musical concerts from 8 pm to 11 pm featuring popular artists from across the country. Shahrah-e-Quaideen will also be decked with vibrant lights and national flags, with a specially designed float patrolling the area and showcasing artistic performances.
Further elaborating on the celebratory schedule, he noted that on 8 August, a musical concert will take place at Rani Bagh in Hyderabad; on 9 August, an international poetry event will be held at the Karachi Expo Centre; on 10 August, Sukkur’s Municipal Stadium will host another musical concert; and on 13 August, a grand musical and laser light show will take place at Karachi’s National Stadium. Celebrated performers such as Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Atif Aslam, Sajjad Ali, Sanam Marvi, and other prominent groups are set to participate.
The Planning and Development Minister Nasir Hussain Shah highlighted that the Sindh government, under the leadership of the Chief Minister, is ensuring that “Maarka-e-Haq” celebrations are reaching every street, town, and city across the province.
He noted that the closer the nation comes to 14 August, the greater the momentum and patriotic spirit witnessed among the people. Emphasising unity, he affirmed that Pakistan is a source of pride for all and that citizens are united under one flag in their commitment to protect and develop the country.
Culture Minister Syed Zulfiqar Shah added that cultural events are taking place daily, including a special programme for differently-abled children on Friday. He announced that from 9 to 11 August, three-day celebrations would be held in Bhit Shah to mark the Urs of the Sufi poet Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. On 14 August, a free Azadi Train will operate from Cantt Station to Zero Point for the public.
In response to a question, Saeed Ghani confirmed that entry to all events—including concerts, festivals, and poetry recitals—is free, with special arrangements made for families.
He mentioned that the Sindh CM had already convened a meeting with representatives of all political parties at the CM House before 1 August, informing them about the upcoming festivities and inviting them to take part. He stressed that these are public celebrations, not political ones, and even the Pakistan People’s Party has barred its members from using party flags or names at any event to preserve the non-partisan spirit of the celebrations.
He further clarified that at the National Stadium concert, separate enclosures will be arranged for women, families, and the general public to ensure orderly participation. Addressing another question, Ghani condemned attempts by certain elements to spread division during such a unifying occasion. While acknowledging everyone’s right to political movements, he emphasised that there are times when national unity should be prioritised over partisan agendas. He noted that the nation is currently celebrating a significant military victory against India and its independence, and any effort to exploit this period for political purposes equates to undermining national interests.
He criticised PTI for fuelling divisive politics since its inception and urged all political groups to define limits for when to suspend political rhetoric in favour of national cohesion. Ghani reiterated that despite hosting such large-scale events, not a single PPP flag or symbol is visible, demonstrating the non-political nature of the celebrations. He concluded by welcoming similar initiatives by other political parties and the Governor of Sindh, encouraging collective efforts in marking Independence Day as a national—not a political—festival.
