Quaid e Azam Day

Quaid e Azam Day is a national holiday celebrated every year on 25th December in Pakistan, commemorating the birth of the Founder of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. A lot of activities take place in honor of this important national holiday. On Quaid e Azam Day, the people of Pakistan remember his tremendous contributions to the creation of Pakistan and his dedication to serving the Muslims of the Sub-continent. Even after independence, Jinnah remained a symbol of hope for all Pakistanis. Remembered for his wisdom, vision, courage, and resolve in adversity, Muhammad Ali Jinnah is unquestionably the most outstanding leader ever.

Even his adversaries admired his bravery and declared him one of the most extraordinary personalities ever living on the planet. In honor of Quaid-e-Azam Day, we reflect on his life and legacy and vow to continue following in his footsteps in working for the betterment of Pakistan.

Background of Quaid-e-Azam Day

Muhammad Ali Jinnah, born on 25th December 1876, is the Founder of Pakistan and served as its first Governor-general. He is among the most praised leaders in the nation’s history and is popularly known as Quaid-e-Azam, which means “Great Leader.” Before his death on 11th September 1948, only one year after taking office as the Governor-General of Pakistan, he worked tirelessly to guarantee the progress of Pakistan.

Richard Symons asserts that Quaid-e-Azam was the one who gave Pakistan its most excellent chance of survival. Commemorations to honor the Founder of Pakistan started when he was still alive and have happened ever since. In 1942, The All-India Muslim League set up a fund for the needy, and Liaquat Ali Khan hosted a reception in honor of Jinnah on his birthday.

Muslim residents of Delhi also hosted Jinnah at the Wellington Pavilion. Since then, various celebrations have been organized on 25th December to pay tribute to the Father of the Nation, including receptions, parades, remembrances, speeches, and acknowledgments from other international leaders. His legacy is still celebrated today.

Why is it so essential to Remember Quaid-e-Azam?

There are a few reasons.

For one, Quaid-e-Azam was an incredible leader who did much for Pakistan. He was a fearless advocate for democracy and justice and always prioritized his country’s needs. He was a fantastic thinker and strategist and instrumental in setting up the foundation of Pakistan.
Most importantly, Quaid-e-Azam was a symbol of unity for the people of Pakistan. He was someone everyone could look up to and identify with, regardless of their ethnicity or religious beliefs. In a country affected by sectarian violence and religious extremism, it is crucial to have a unifying figure like Quaid-e-Azam.

What is Quaid e Azam Day in Pakistan?

Quaid-e-Azam Day is a major public holiday in Pakistan celebrated annually to pay tribute to the continuous striving of the Founder of Pakistan. It is a day when we honor the man who gave us our independence. It is also a day when we celebrate our culture and heritage. And finally, it is a day when we reaffirm our commitment to making Pakistan a strong and prosperous nation. On Quaid-e-Azam Day, Pakistan remembers the firm determination of Jinnah and appreciates him for his sacrifices. Countless cities across the globe bear Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s name, and many Pakistani establishments, including universities, libraries, and public places, all pay homage to him. Considered Pakistan’s most significant leader by his biographer Stanley Wolpert, Muhammad Ali Jinnah is a shining beacon of hope for everyone.

When is Quaid-e-Azam Day Celebrated?

Quaid Day is a day to remember the untiring efforts of the Founder of Pakistan. Celebrated every year on 25th December with great zest and zeal, Quaid e Azam Day is very close to the heart of the people of Pakistan. Quaid-e-Azam is more than just the Founder of Pakistan. He was a leader, an advocate for independence, and a hero to the Muslim nation. He always put the needs of his country first, and he worked tirelessly to make Pakistan a reality. The people of Pakistan owe him a lot. That’s why it is so important to remember him every year on his birthday.

How is Quaid e Azam Day Celebrated in Pakistan?

Every year on 25th December, Pakistanis celebrate the birth anniversary of the Founder of Pakistan and try to follow in his footsteps by adopting his qualities.

How does Pakistan celebrate Quaid-e-Azam Day? There are many different ways, but usually, it involves gatherings, Quaid day speeches, and functions where people can come together to remember the life and work of Quaid-e-Azam. There are also many unique events and activities throughout the country, like parades, fairs, and exhibitions. And schools and government offices organize special social events so that everyone can have a chance to commemorate this important day.

Celebrations of Quaid Day

So why do we celebrate Quaid-e-Azam Day? Well, Quaid-e-Azam was the man who led Pakistan to independence and gave us the country we have today. He was a great leader and an inspiring figure, and we greatly owe him. That’s why it’s so important to remember him every year on his birthday. On 25th December, we commemorate Quaid-e-Azam’s birthday as a national holiday. 25th December celebrations allow us to reflect on his remarkable achievements and honor his legacy. Let us take a look at how Pakistan celebrates this momentous occasion.

Public Celebrations

Mainly observed by the State and the residents of Pakistan, the 25th December celebrations are at their peak on Quaid e Azam Day. Every year on 25th December, Pakistanis take pride when Government officials display their National Flag on major architectural structures across the country, especially at the top of the residence of Quaid-e-Azam, located in Karachi. Pakistani civil awards include an “Order of Quaid-e-Azam.” All Pakistani rupee banknotes contain a picture of Jinnah, the namesake of numerous government organizations. Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport is Pakistan’s busiest, formerly Quaid-e-Azam International Airport. The Jinnah Expressway in Tehran, Iran, and Cinnah Caddesi (The most prominent street in Türkiye) bear his name.

Additionally, the monarchist government of Iran issued a stamp in 1976 to mark the 100th anniversary of Jinnah’s birth. A section of Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn bears the name “Muhammad Ali Jinnah Way” in honor of the founder of Pakistan. One of Karachi’s most reputed landmarks is the Mazar-e-Quaid, the mausoleum of Jinnah. In Andhra Pradesh, India, the authorities constructed the “Jinnah Tower” to tribute the great leader.

School Celebrations

For Jinnah’s birthday celebrations, many schools hold special events. Many events give a history of his battle to build Pakistan while seeking to teach children about discipline, togetherness, and faith. Students participate in speech competitions to deliver Quaid Day speeches and to highlight the inspiring life of the Founder of Pakistan.

Observances and Traditions

Quaid fought valiantly for Pakistan’s establishment, and the people of Pakistan rightly celebrate his victory as a turning moment in their national celebration. As a part of the 25th December celebrations and to honor Jinnah’s contributions, many Pakistanis visit his tomb in Karachi. As part of their efforts to create Pakistan a nation of peace, brotherhood, and patience, as well as to defend the rights of minorities worldwide, the political leaders deliver Quaid Day speeches on the occasion of Quaid-e-Azam Day. Throughout the public holiday, leaders offer Fateha and place wreaths at his grave, and youngsters frequently hold rituals in his honor. Radio and television stations broadcast special programs about the lifelong journey of the Founder of Pakistan.

Security Arrangements

The Pakistan Army is in charge of making security measures for the event. Additionally, the Pakistan Air Force also undertakes security arrangements. The country holds a guard mounting to carry out ceremonial duties on Quaid e Azam Day. 25th December Celebrations begin with special prayers for the country’s safety, development, and prosperity. A guard-changing ceremony also takes place at the Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi.

Formation of All India Muslim League

As the Indian National Congress made it evident that it was only interested in defending the interests of Hindus, there was a dire need for a party to protect Muslims’ rights. The apparent anti-Muslim posture that Congress seemed to have taken profoundly saddened the Muslims of the Subcontinent. Nawab Salimullah Khan proposed the establishment of the All India Muslim League, and Moulana Zafar Ali, Maulana Muhammad Ali, and Hakim Ajmal Khan supported this notion. The All India Educational Conference adopted the resolution on 30th December 1906. Sir Agha Khan was the first President of the All-India Muslim League. Muslim League became the sole Muslim representative due to its establishment in Dhaka in 1906. In the 1945–1946 elections, the Muslim League met a resounding victory, demonstrating to the British and Hindus that it was the exclusive voice of Muslims. The purpose behind establishing this party was:

1. To protect the political rights of Muslims and make the government aware of them.

2. To dispel mistrust and create feelings of loyalty toward the British government among Muslims.

3. To stop the emergence of hatred toward the other communities in India among Muslims.

Quaid’s Role in the Independence of Pakistan

Jinnah was one of the greatest nation-builders of all time, a great constitutionalist, a remarkable parliamentarian, a top politician, an unyielding freedom warrior, an influential Muslim leader, and a political strategist. But what made him so exceptional is that. In contrast, previous comparable leaders took over traditionally well-defined nations and helped them achieve freedom; he founded a nation out of an impoverished minority and provided a cultural and national home. He fought for the rights of Muslims to live honorably in the subcontinent for more than thirty years. His life story tells the tale of the rebirth of Muslims in the subcontinent and their dazzling ascent to nationhood.

In the initial years of his political career, Jinnah supported Hindu-Muslim reconciliation. However, after witnessing the evil intentions of Hindu leaders and realizing that Muslims and Hindus could not survive together, Jinnah resigned from the Indian National Congress in 1920.
Jinnah declared the Muslims a separate nation in every aspect. He desired a particular country for Muslims where they could live under the teachings of Islam and the Sunnah. He worked day and night to provide Muslims with an independent state.
By 1940, Jinnah concluded that the subcontinent’s Muslims needed their State to prevent any potential marginalization they could experience in a separate Hindu-Muslim state. In 1940, under Jinnah’s leadership, the Subcontinent Muslims passed the Lahore Resolution, which demanded an independent country for Indian Muslims. Jinnah vehemently disagreed with the cabinet mission’s suggestion, according to which the British desired to transfer power to the Indian National Congress.
He prevented all of the conspiracies of the Hindus and British from succeeding. Finally, the Cabinet Mission had to admit the decisions of Jinnah. With the unending efforts of Quaid-e-Azam, Pakistan emerged on the map of the world on 14th August 1947.

Jinnah’s Efforts for Pakistan

Numerous leaders have been famous throughout history for altering the course of nations. One such prominent figure is Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who changed the course of events for the Muslims of the Subcontinent. Even after creating an independent homeland for Muslims, Jinnah continued to work for Pakistan’s well-being. Quaid-e-Azam took oath as the first Governor General of Pakistan on 15th August 1947 and remained the Governor General of Pakistan for thirteen months until he died in 1948.

He used his wisdom and leadership skills to address various national problems during this brief period, allowing Pakistan to stand on its feet. The Founder of Pakistan overcame many hurdles created after the independence with his undaunting personality. The Hindus tried to make all sorts of limitations on Pakistan, which included an unfair division of assets and the issue of rehabilitation of up to eight million refugees. Hindus mistreated Muslims.
India denied Pakistan the majority of its currency holdings, leaving Pakistan empty-handed. There was a shortage of machinery and other types of equipment. The new administration also had to work to preserve abandoned crops, create security in a chaotic environment, and offer essential services in addition to the enormous refugee burden. Therefore, given the circumstances, Pakistan’s survival was a miracle. Pakistan endured and moved forward primarily due to one person—Muhammad Ali Jinnah—.
At that pivotal time in the country’s history, the country was in dire need of a charismatic leader, and Jinnah incredibly met that demand. He was more than just a Governor-General. In her research about Pakistan, economist Yasmeen Niaz Mohiuddin writes, “Despite Pakistan’s birth in bloodshed and chaos, it only managed to survive in the first difficult months after partition due to the enormous sacrifices made by its people and the selfless efforts of Quaid-e-Azam.”
He established the Secretariat of Pakistan and advised Government officials to serve the nation honestly. Quaid-e-Azam visited East Pakistan in March 1948. He delivered a speech in front of 30,000 people, declaring that ”Urdu” should be the National language of Pakistan because he thought a single language was necessary for a nation to remain united.
He organized a committee for administrative reformation under the supervision of Chaudhary Muhammad Ali.
He constituted a Civil Service Academy and reorganized Civil Services. Jinnah labored to set up the new country’s government and policies and assist the numerous Muslim refugees who had fled India. Additionally, he advocated for the rights of minorities in Pakistan and personally oversaw the construction of camps for refugees.
He established the Navy, Army, and Air Force Headquarters to improve efficiency.
He considered Foreign Policy a vital aspect of the progress of any country. He developed cordial relations with the neighboring and developed countries.
In addition to other issues, he also promoted the importance of education among the nation’s Youth. He organized the first Educational Conference in 1947. According to him, education aims to shape the code of morality. He considered the acquisition of Science and Technology Education mandatory for the Youth.
Due to the constant efforts and dynamic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam, Pakistan became a member of the United Nations.
Despite his deteriorating health, the Founder of Pakistan did not let his illness come in the way of his duties. Quaid-e-Azam invested his heart and soul in the betterment of Pakistan.

Why is Quaid Known as the ”Founder of Pakistan ”?

On Quaid Day, we remember the Founder of Pakistan. What was his vision for our country? Quaid-e-Azam wanted a homeland where people of all religions could live in peace and harmony. He believed in democracy and wanted Pakistan to be a secular country. He also envisioned a self-sufficient country with a strong economy and a healthy population.

Pakistan attained independence on 14th August 1947. The credit for this outstanding achievement goes to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who is known as the Founder of Pakistan. He was a great leader, and Pakistanis rever him as ”Baba-e-Qaum”, the Father of the Nation. He worked tirelessly for the cause of Pakistan and ultimately succeeded.

There are many reasons why Quaid-e-Azam is known as the Founder of Pakistan. Quaid-e-Azam was a visionary leader who believed in democracy and equal rights. He wanted to create a Pakistan where Muslims could coexist peacefully and harmoniously. And his dream came true on 14th August 1947, when Pakistan became an independent country. To honor the efforts of this great leader, the people of Pakistan organize the 25th December celebrations on Quaid Day.

Quaid-E-Azam was an ambassador for women’s rights and worked hard to ensure they were given the same opportunities as men. He knew that if Pakistan was going to be successful, it needed the help of its women. Pakistan owes its very existence to Quaid-E-Azam. He is truly a hero and deserves to be known as the Founder of Pakistan.

Death of Quaid e Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

Jinnah had Tuberculosis since the early 1930s; only his sister and some of his close friends knew of his illness. Jinnah didn’t want his enemies to know about his condition. In June 1948, Jinnah and Fatima flew to Quetta in Balochistan’s hilly region to escape Karachi’s scorching heat. His restless soul could not find peace there either – having to lecture at the Command and Staff College about how you, alongside all other forces of Pakistan, are responsible for upholding the Pakistani people’s life, property, and honor.

After speaking at an opening ceremony for the State Bank of Pakistan, Jinnah felt exhausted from talking too much, so he returned home to get some well-earned sleep. He returned to Quetta on 6th July 1948. After realizing he was reluctant to receive medical care, the Pakistani government sent the best doctors to treat Jinnah. Test results indicated advanced lung cancer as well as Tuberculosis. Doctors treated him with Streptomycin, the brand-new “wonder medication,” but it was unsuccessful. Despite the prayers of the whole nation, Jinnah’s condition kept worsening. Till 9th September, Jinnah also acquired pneumonia.

He traveled to Karachi on the morning of 11th September at the doctors’ recommendation to undergo better treatment. Just over a year after Pakistan’s establishment, Jinnah passed away at age 71 on 11th September 1948, at 10:20 p.m. in Karachi. As the nation mourned the loss of its beloved founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Government officials buried him near his birthplace in Karachi. This unforgettable leader rests at the magnificent marble mausoleum that bears his name – Mazar-e-Quaid.

FAQs

How old was Quaid when he died, and how he died?

On 11th September 1948, Quaid-e-Azam died after many years from a chronic illness of Tuberculosis and pneumonia. He dedicated his life to the people of Pakistan and died at 71, just after a year of Pakistan’s creation.

Conclusion

On Quaid Day, we remember the founder of Pakistan. Muhammad Ali Jinnah was an incredible man who fought for the rights of Muslims in India. Listening to Quaid Day speeches inspires us all. He was instrumental in creating the country, and his vision and dedication continue to shape Pakistan today. Pakistan is a country full of diversity and culture. We are proud to celebrate our heritage and the accomplishments of our leaders. We will never forget the sacrifices that Quaid-e-Azam made for us.