From Gujranwala to Karachi: how the real ones celebrate Independence Day

ISLAMABAD: Every year, as Independence day draws near, Pakistan’s streets come alive with the green and white of the national flag. From the busiest city roads to small neighbourhood lanes, every corner hums with 14 August excitement. 

While the day holds a special meaning for all Pakistanis, for low-income families it is more than just a public holiday. It is a rare chance to step away from the daily grind, spend time together, and celebrate in warm and colourful ways.

Gujranwala’s simple joys 

In Gujranwala, the days before Independence Day turn the city’s main areas into a lively fair. Roadsides in Model Town, Rahwali, Gulshan Colony, GT Road, Pindi Bypass, and People’s Colony fill with stalls selling flags of all sizes, green bangles, paper buntings, colourful “bajay” (plastic trumpets), and clothes for children printed with the crescent and star.  

For many low-income households, these affordable items are their way of joining the celebration. A flag for the rooftop, a set of bangles for the girls, or a little green T-shirt for the youngest child is enough to feel part of the spirit. 

On the day itself, families head to places like Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park for picnics. Parents pack simple home-cooked meals, sometimes a pot of biryani or parathas wrapped in newspaper, and spread a cloth under the shade of a tree. Children run around blowing bajay while the elders sit back and talk about the meaning of the day. For those in Rahwali, the outing often ends with a stop for the famous Rahwali kulfi, a sweet and icy treat that brings instant joy without costing much. 

Twin cities in full colour 

In the twin cities, Islamabad and Rawalpindi, even the most modest neighbourhoods take on a festive look. In the days before 14 August, people buy strings of small flags, locally called jhandiyan, and drape them across the streets, turning entire lanes into tunnels of green and white. Shops in Raja Bazaar, Saddar, and Aabpara sell Independence Day trinkets at prices most can afford. Badges for a few rupees, small paper flags for children, and inexpensive caps or scarves in national colours are popular picks. 

For low-income families, the day is often about enjoying the decorations they helped put up. In many mohallas, children from different houses pool their pocket money to buy extra jhandiyan or a larger flag for the street’s main pole.

On the morning of 14 August, families walk to nearby parks such as Fatima Jinnah Park in Islamabad or Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi to spend a few hours under the open sky. Street vendors selling ice lollies, pakoras, and samosas do brisk business, as these small snacks add to the outing without straining the budget. 

Lahore’s lively crowds 

In Lahore, Independence Day has a distinct energy. The days leading up to it see Anarkali Bazaar and Shah Alam Market crowded with shoppers, many from low-income households looking for the best deals. Green dupattas, flag-printed kameezes for children, and inexpensive plastic horns are among the most popular buys.

At midnight, as 14 August begins, fireworks light up the sky. Families and friends step outside or gather in open spaces to watch. Children laugh and point at the colours above, while adults smile and capture the moment. 

On the big day, families flock to public spots such as Minar-e-Pakistan, Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, and Jilani Park. It’s the simple joys that take over. A ride in a paddle boat, a picnic under the trees, or a walk among the crowds is enough to feel part of something bigger. 

Many bring food from home and share it with relatives or neighbours. Children often paint their faces with green and white designs, done by street artists charging only a few rupees.

Karachi’s sea breeze and historic pride 

In Karachi, low-income families often begin their celebrations early in the morning. Many first visit Mazar-e-Quaid to pay respects to the founder of the nation. Even those who cannot afford a full family trip to the mausoleum try to visit at least once in a few years, treating it as a meaningful family memory. 

Later in the day, Sea View becomes the city’s main gathering point. Families come with packets of snacks, sit on the sand, and watch children play near the waves. Small vendors sell corn on the cob, cold drinks, and plastic toys. The cool sea breeze, combined with the sight of green flags fluttering against the skyline, creates a celebration that feels both grand and personal. 

A celebration beyond money 

For low-income households, Independence Day is not about spending large sums or making lavish plans. It is about finding joy in small ways. A flag on the rooftop, a picnic with home-cooked food, children’s laughter in the park, and the shared pride in the country’s colours are enough to make the day special. 

From the kulfi stalls of Gujranwala to the seaside of Karachi, the spirit remains the same. People celebrate Pakistan with heart, no matter what is in the wallet. 

That may be the most beautiful thing about 14 August: it reminds us all, rich or poor, of the shared dream we hold for our homeland.