A boy walks past a Pakistani flag displayed for sale ahead of Pakistan’s Independence Day. PHOTO: REUTERS/FILE
LAHORE:
The metropolis is taking on shades of green and white as preparations for the 79th Independence Day gather pace, with markets crowded with national-themed merchandise, homes and public spaces decorated with flags and lights, and official events planned.
From Urdu Bazaar, Shah Alam and Liberty Market to neighbourhood markets, stalls selling flags, buntings, badges, caps, wristbands, sunglasses, toys and green-and-white clothing have sprung up. Children accompanied by their parents are among the most enthusiastic shoppers, picking out flags and accessories to decorate their homes, bicycles and cars.
Ahmed Raza, who runs a small bookshop and has put up an Independence Day stall in Township, said children were driving much of the demand. Flags are proving particularly popular, while badges, buntings and T-shirts carrying the national flag are also selling well.
“Children are especially excited about the celebrations, and many parents are coming to the stall with them,” he said.
Rafaqat Hussain, who was visiting the stall with his children, said the family was buying decorations for their home and clothes for the celebrations.
“My children wanted flags and buntings for the house, so I brought them here to choose what they liked. I also bought a white shirt with green crescent and star and a green shirt for Independence Day,” he said.
Kashif Ali, a garments shop owner in Karim Block Market, said he had opened his stall on Sunday evening and had already sold most of his merchandise.
“The response has been very encouraging. People prepare for Independence Day much like they do for Eid, buying flags, decorations and other items for their homes. For small traders, these temporary stalls create an opportunity to earn additional income,” he said.
Maria Imran, a teacher and mother of three, said Independence Day was an opportunity for parents to help children understand that freedom comes with responsibilities.
“Parents should use this occasion to teach children about the struggle and sacrifices that led to the creation of Pakistan and encourage them to play a constructive role in its future,” she said.
She said the significance of the day went beyond flags, green-and-white clothes and public ceremonies, adding that education, discipline, hard work and responsible citizenship were among the ways young people could contribute to the country.
The festive activity is also extending to commercial outlets and online platforms, with retailers promoting ‘Azadi’ sales on summer clothes, footwear, gadgets and accessories. Restaurants and online platforms have also introduced special offers linked to the occasion.
The provincial government is marking the occasion with programmes across Punjab, while preparations for Lahore’s official festivities are in full swing. The main Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony will be held at Hazuri Bagh, with the Parks and Horticulture Agency (PHA) organising a ceremony at Jilani Park.
Lahore will also host two fireworks displays at Minar-e-Pakistan and Liberty Market. The PHA reviewed arrangements at Greater Iqbal Park for the Minar-e-Pakistan celebrations, including fireworks and decorative lighting on the night between August 13 and 14. Green, white and crescent-themed lighting will be installed around the monument, while the park will also be decorated.
Major thoroughfares including Jail Road, Mall Road, Canal Road and Main Boulevard will also be illuminated.
The Punjab Walled Cities and Heritage Areas Authority is preparing special decorations, illuminations, cultural activities and awareness initiatives.
The National History Museum at Greater Iqbal Park is also scheduled to host cultural, educational and recreational activities for families, children and young people.
A poster competition among university students from across Pakistan to depict national unity, resilience, cultural heritage, progress and the achievements is also under way.
