PESHAWAR: Like other parts of the country, Pakistan Day was observed across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Monday with a spirit of patriotism, though celebrations remained simple this year.
The day dawned with a 21-gun salute in Peshawar, where the atmosphere echoed with slogans of national pride and unity.
Special prayers were offered at dawn for the country’s development, peace and prosperity, while celebrations across the country echoed with chants of “Pakistan Zindabad”.
Unlike previous years, Pakistan Day 2026 did not feature large public gatherings or parades.
Instead, the focus stayed on modest flag-hoisting ceremonies, reflecting a more restrained approach while keeping the national spirit alive.
In all districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including provincial capital Peshawar, the people commemorated the historic day of the passage of the Pakistan Resolution on March 23, 1940 that within a period of seven years led to the creation of Pakistan on August 14, 1947.
It was a national holiday and public sector offices and schools were closed. The national flag was hoisted atop of all major and historic buildings. Pakistan Day celebrations have been reported from all 35 districts including Chitral, DI Khan, Dir, Swat, Malakand, Shangla, Abbottabad, Haripur, Mansehra, Swabi, Nowshera, Kohat, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Mardan, Charsadda including seven tribal districts of South Waziristan, Bajaur, Khyber, Orakzai, Kurram and Mohmand.
The people paid glowing tributes to Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Mohammad Iqbal and leaders of the Pakistan Movement for their struggles.
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Monday, in his message on Pakistan Day, said that the historic day marks the moment when the Muslims of the subcontinent resolved to establish a separate homeland.
He said that on March 23, 1940, the foundation was laid for the creation of Pakistan through a firm commitment and a noble cause, as Muslims of the subcontinent united for their rights and identity.
The Governor said that as a result of the historic resolution, Pakistan today stands on the world map as a sovereign and nuclear power. He added that the resolution was a declaration to preserve the religious, cultural, and social identity of Muslims.
Kundi emphasized that Pakistan Day reminds the nation of the sacrifices rendered by its founding leaders and elders, urging citizens to realize their responsibilities towards the country.
He also highlighted the vital role of the Pakistan Armed Forces in ensuring national security, stability, and economic progress, stating that their sacrifices in thwarting hostile designs are unforgettable.
The Governor called upon people across the country, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to renew their pledge to work collectively for making Pakistan one of the greatest nations in the world.
He said the nation, with its resilience and unity, continues to move forward on the path of sovereignty, development, and stability, with the shared goal of a prosperous Pakistan.
In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari highlighted that Pakistan Day 2026 reminds the nation of the power of unity.
He said the country has strengthened its defence, achieved nuclear capability, and successfully tackled terrorism through long and difficult efforts.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi formally launched the “Ehsaas Shajar Campaign” by planting a sapling at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House.
Sohail Afridi said that a historic and record-breaking tree plantation drive has been initiated on the occasion of Pakistan Day and Eid, adding that the government has set a target of planting one million saplings in a single day, while the public is also actively participating in the campaign at their own level.
CM stated that due to the initiatives of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government, there has been a significant increase in the forest area of the province.
He added that they are serious about protecting the environment, the future, and upcoming generations, and practical measures are being taken in this regard.
The Chief Minister said that in view of environmental challenges, the promotion and protection of forests has become inevitable.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026