There are some celebrations that are more than just events. They become a reminder of who we are, what we have survived, and why the idea of Pakistan still makes millions of hearts beat a little faster.
This year, Punjab’s Independence Day celebrations carried exactly that spirit. From the flag-hoisting ceremonies and illuminated landmarks to the grand celebrations at Liberty Chowk, Lahore was wrapped in green and white. Fireworks lit up the sky, music filled the air, and thousands gathered to celebrate the 79th Independence Day with a sense of pride and belonging. The Punjab government had announced special national-song and musical performances across the province, along with fireworks and other public celebrations.
And perhaps that is what makes these celebrations special under Maryam Nawaz. She has repeatedly understood that governance is not only about roads, hospitals, transport and development, it is also about giving people moments to celebrate their identity and culture. Whether it was the revival of Basant earlier this year, Eid festivities, or now Independence Day, there has been an effort to bring people together around occasions that make Punjab feel alive. Basant, for instance, was revived after almost two decades, with the government stressing that Punjab belongs to everyone and that people of different faiths have the right to celebrate their festivals.
And Independence Day took that feeling to another level.
Watching people from different backgrounds stand together beneath the Pakistani flag is a reminder that before our differences, there is something that binds us. We may belong to different communities, speak different languages, follow different traditions and have different opinions, but when Pakistan is being celebrated, everyone has a place in that celebration.
That is the vibe: we are here, we are alive, and Pakistan is alive.
Of course, loving Pakistan does not mean pretending everything is perfect. A healthy nation must question, demand accountability and speak about what needs to change. But there is a difference between questioning your country because you want it to improve and constantly forgetting everything it gives you.
Pakistan has given us a home, an identity, a flag under which we stand and a history that belongs to all of us. Perhaps the question we should ask ourselves on Independence Day is not only “What has Pakistan given me?” but also “What am I giving back to Pakistan?”
And credit where credit is due: Zeeshan Malik deserves particular appreciation for the work behind bringing this celebratory atmosphere to Lahore. His involvement in the Independence Day arrangements and his consistent role in communicating Punjab’s development and public initiatives reflect the kind of political engagement that goes beyond statements and into execution. His recent work has included coordinating and highlighting the Lahore Development Programme, public-welfare initiatives and development projects under the CM’s vision. The Liberty Chowk celebration itself was promoted as a major Independence Day gathering featuring live musical performances and fireworks.
Because sometimes leadership is also about understanding the mood of a people.
People need progress, yes. They need better roads, healthcare, education, jobs and opportunities. But they also need moments that remind them that life is more than its problems.
So, for one evening, Lahore looked up at the sky, heard the music, saw the fireworks and celebrated the country that we call home. Pakistan first. Pakistan always. And perhaps the greatest way to celebrate independence is to make sure that the Pakistan we inherited is a little better when we pass it on.