23rd March is one of the most significant days in the history of Pakistan. It marks the adoption of Pakistan Resolution in 1940, which laid the foundation for the creation of Pakistan. On this day, the All-India Muslim League, under the leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, formally demanded a separate homeland for Muslims of subcontinent. The Lahore Resolution, also known as the Pakistan Resolution, declared that Muslims were a separate nation with their own distinct culture, religion, and traditions, and they deserved an independent state where they could live freely and practice their faith without fear.

This day is important for the people of Pakistan because it symbolizes the beginning of their struggle for independence. It reminds of the sacrifices made by our forefathers to achieve a free and sovereign nation. 23rd March is celebrated as Pakistan Day, and it holds immense historical, political, and emotional significance for every Pakistani.
Before we discuss the history of our independence, it is important to understand what really ‘independence’ is!
What is Independence?
Independence is the ability to make your own choices, live your life according to your beliefs, and govern yourself without being controlled by others. It means having the freedom to decide what is best for you, your family, and your community. Independence is like being the captain of your own ship, steering it in the direction you want to go, rather than letting someone else take the wheel.
Why is it Important? 
Independence is important because it allows people to live with dignity, respect, and self-respect. It gives them the power to protect their rights, culture, and traditions.
It Comes with Responsibility
Independence is not just about doing whatever you want. It comes with responsibility. It has its own limits. When you are independent, you have to think about the consequences of your actions and make sure your choices are fair and just for everyone around you. 
Freedom and Independence
Freedom and independence are closely related, but they are not the same thing. Freedom is the ability to act, speak, or think without being controlled by others. It is like having the keys to a car and being able to drive wherever you want. Independence, on the other hand, is about having your own car in the first place. It means having the resources, power, and authority to make decisions for yourself. For example, a bird in a cage may have the freedom to fly within the cage, but it is not independent because it cannot leave the cage or make decisions about where to go. True independence means breaking free from the cage and soaring in the open sky.
Islam’s Concept of Independence
In Islam, independence is deeply connected to the idea of justice, dignity, and self-determination. The holy Quran and the teachings of our Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) emphasize the importance of living a life free from oppression and subjugation. Allah says: “And say: Truth has come, and falsehood has departed. Indeed, falsehood is bound to perish.” (Quran 17:81). This Verse reminds us that truth and justice will always prevail over oppression and falsehood.
Quran also teaches that every individual has the right to live with honor and dignity. Allah says: “We have certainly honored the children of Adam.” (17:70). This means that no one has the right to take away another person’s freedom or independence. The Prophet (PBUH) also emphasized the importance of standing up against injustice and fighting for the rights of the oppressed. He said: “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or oppressed.” When asked how to help an oppressor, he replied: “By preventing him from oppressing others.”
Iqbal’s Concept of Freedom 
To Iqbal, independence is not just a political concept; it is a spiritual and moral duty of a Muslim. It is about creating a society where everyone can live according to the teachings of Islam, free from fear and oppression.
Why Was Independence Important?
The fall of the Mughal Empire in the 18th century marked the end of Muslim rule in the Indian subcontinent. With the rise of British India, Muslims found themselves in a difficult position. They had lost their political power, and their culture, language, and religion were under threat. The British colonial rulers favored the Hindu majority, and Muslims were often treated as second-class citizens. During this time, Muslims faced economic hardship, social discrimination, and political marginalization. Their educational institutions were neglected, and their voices were ignored in the decision-making process. This led to a sense of despair and hopelessness among the Muslims.
Freedom and independence became crucial for Muslims because it was the only way to protect their identity, culture, and religion. They needed a separate space where they could live according to their beliefs and traditions without fear of persecution. This desire for independence eventually led to the creation of Pakistan.
Role of Tipu Sultan
Both Tipu Sultan and Sir Syed Ahmad Khan laid the foundation for the idea of independence, and freedom from subjugation. Tipu’s supreme sacrifice in quest for independence, and Sir Syed’s efforts for reawakening through modern education inspired the Muslims of subcontinent to dream of a future where they could live with dignity and self-respect. Tipu Sultan, known as the “Tiger of Mysore”, was one of the first Muslim rulers who resisted the British colonialism. He fought bravely against the British in the late 18th century and became a symbol of resistance and independence. His father Haider Ali and he himself believed in the importance of self-rule and worked tirelessly to protect his kingdom from foreign domination. He was a learned man, who invented the first rocket. Although because of traitors within his ranks, he was defeated, yet his courage and determination inspired future generations to fight for their freedom.
Role of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan was a great visionary and a true reformer who played a key role in awakening the Muslims of Hindu-majority subcontinent. Keeping in mind the causes of Tipu Sultan’s defeat and the failure of the 1857 War of Independence, he was the first who realized that Muslims needed to modernize and educate themselves in order to compete with the British rulers as well as the Hindu majority. He took a number of concrete and practical steps that led to the awakening of Muslims. He founded the Aligarh Muslim University, which became a center of learning and intellectual growth for Muslims. He believed that education was the key to independence. He wrote books, delivered lectures and issued a monthly magazine to educate and encourage Muslims to take an active role in politics and society. He was the real pioneer of Two-Nation Theory as well as Modern Education. It was his movement that ultimately led the Muslims of India to gather their strength against the Hindu dominance in politics. 
What’s Two Nation Theory?: The Two Nation Theory was the idea that Muslims and Hindus were not just two religious groups but two separate nations with different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. This theory, first introduced by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, was concretely proposed by Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the Poet of the East, in his 1930 Allahabad address. Iqbal presented the idea of independent state, saying that Muslims needed a separate homeland where they could practice their religion freely and preserve their cultural identity.
Role of Quaid-i-Azam
Allama Iqbal not only introduced the Two Nation Theory but also gave the All India Muslim League and dynamic and visionary leader. Through his various letters, he finally convinced Barrister Mohammad Ali Jinnah to come back from England and lead the struggle for independence. Later known as the “Father of the Nation”, and the “Quaid-i-Azam”, Mohammad Ali Jinnah played a crucial role in turning Allama Iqbal’s dream of a separate homeland, called Pakistan, into reality. Jinnah was a brilliant lawyer and a charismatic leader who fought tirelessly for the rights of Muslims. He argued that Muslims and Hindus could not live together in a single nation because their interests and aspirations were too different. His leadership and determination united the Muslims and gave them the confidence and courage to demand a separate homeland.
Pakistan Resolution – 23rd March, 1940: On 23rd March, 1940, the All India Muslim League, under the Quaid’s leadership, passed a historic resolution for establishment of a separate homeland. Through the “Lahore Resolution”, which was later named as “Pakistan Resolution”, the Muslims shared one vision, one dream, and succeeded against all odds, to share one homeland we call Pakistan. The resolution text, unanimously approved by the subject committee, accepted the concept of a united homeland for Muslims and recommended the creation of independent Muslim majority states. 

The Text of Pakistan Resolution 
“Resolved at the Lahore Session of All-India Muslim League held on 22nd-24th March, 1940.
(1)   While approving and endorsing the action taken by the Council and the Working Committee of the All Indian Muslim League as indicated in their resolutions dated the 10th of August, 17th and 18th of September and 22nd of October, 1939, and 3rd February 1940 on the constitutional issues, this Session of the All-Indian Muslim League emphatically reiterates that the scheme of federation embodied in the Government of India Act 1935, is totally unsuited to, and unworkable in the peculiar conditions of this country and is altogether unacceptable to Muslim India.
(2)   Resolved that it is the considered view of this Session of the All India Muslim League that no constitutional plan would be workable in this country or acceptable to Muslims unless it is designed on the following basic principle, namely that geographically contiguous units are demarcated into regions which should be so constituted, with such territorial readjustments as may be necessary, that the areas in which the Muslims are numerically in a majority as in the North-Western and Eastern Zones of India, should be grouped to constitute “Independent States” in which the constituent units shall be autonomous and sovereign.
(3) That adequate, effective and mandatory safeguards should be specifically provided in the constitution for minorities in these units and in these regions for the protection of their religious, cultural, economic, political, administrative and other rights and interests in consultation with them; and in other parts of India where the Mussalmans are in a minority, adequate, effective and mandatory safeguards shall be specially provided in the constitution for them and other minorities for the protection of their religious, cultural, economic, political, administrative and other rights and interests in consultation with them.
(4) This Session further authorizes the Working Committee to frame a scheme of constitution in accordance with these basic principles, providing for the assumption finally by the respective regions of all powers such as defense, external affairs, communications, customs and such other matters as may be necessary.”

Pakistan Independence Movement 
The historic “Pakistan Resolution” marked the real beginning of Pakistan Independence Movement. This movement was a struggle for freedom and self-determination led by the Muslims of subcontinent. It was a peaceful and democratic movement that aimed to secure the rights and interests of Muslims. The movement gained momentum in the 1940s, with millions of Muslims joining the call for a separate homeland.
The Pakistan Independence Movement began with the rise of Muslim political consciousness. The AIML, founded in 1906, became the main platform for Muslim demands. The movement gained momentum in the 1930s and 1940s, as Muslims realized that they needed a separate state to protect their rights and interests. The Lahore Resolution of 1940 was a turning point in the movement. It clearly stated the demand for a separate Muslim state, which would include the Muslim-majority regions of the subcontinent. Over the next seven years, the Muslim League, under Jinnah's leadership, worked tirelessly to achieve this goal.
The movement faced many challenges, including opposition from the British and the Hindu majority. However, the determination and unity of the Muslims ultimately, and the Quaid’s determined leadership led to the creation of Pakistan.
Achievements of Pakistan Movement
One of the greatest achievements of the Pakistan Independence Movement was the creation of Pakistan on August 14, 1947. This was a historic moment that marked the end of British colonial rule, and the beginning of a new era for Muslims of South Asia. Pakistan became the first modern state created in the name of Islam, where Muslims could live according to their faith and traditions.
The movement also succeeded in uniting Muslims from different regions, languages, and backgrounds under a common goal. It showed the world that Muslims were capable of organizing themselves and achieving their objectives through peaceful means.
Conclusion
23rd March is a shining example of unity, determination, and courage. It shows the world that even in the face of great challenges, Pakistani people can achieve their dreams through peaceful and democratic means. Today, Pakistan continues to strive for progress and prosperity, guided by the Quaid’s principles of justice, equality, and freedom that inspired its creation.

how we honor pakistan day?
The day is marked by various ceremonies, events, and activities: 

National Holiday: The day is observed as a public holiday throughout Pakistan.
21-Gun Salute: The day, starts with a 21-gun salute early in the morning.
Special Prayers: Special prayers are offered in mosques for the prosperity and unity of Pakistan.
Flag Hoisting: Pakistan’s National Flag is hoisted on all major buildings, homes, and public spaces. These are decorated with green and white lights, which are the colors of our flag.
Cultural Programs: Schools, colleges, and  organizations arrange special programs, to cherish Pakistan’s history, culture and achievements.
Pakistan Day Parade: One of the most iconic and eagerly awaited events on Pakistan Day is the Pakistan Day Parade, also known as the Joint Services Parade. This grand military parade is held in Islamabad, and is attended by the President, Prime Minister, military officials, foreign dignitaries, and eminent citizens.
Key Features of Pakistan Day Parade
Address to Nation: The President addresses the nation, highlighting the importance of the day, and paying tribute to the leaders of Pakistan Movement.
March Past: The parade begins with a march past by the tri-services — Army, Navy, and Air Force. Soldiers, sailors, and airmen march in perfect unison, discipline and professionalism.
Military Hardware: The parade features a display of Pakistan’s advanced military equipment, including tanks, missiles, drones, and artillery.
Air Show: The highlight of the parade is the breathtaking air show. Pakistan Air Force’s fighter jets, including JF-17 Thunder and F-16 Falcons, perform aerobatic maneuvers, leaving trails of green and white smoke in the sky.
Cultural Floats and Tableaus: The parade includes colorful floats and tableaus representing the diverse cultures and traditions of Pakistan’s provinces. These displays celebrate the unity and diversity of the nation.
Participation of Children & Civil Society: School children, scouts, and civil society members also participate in the parade, adding a touch of inclusivity and national pride.
Para Jumping: Special forces perform parachute jumps, showing their skills and precision.
Awards and Honors: The government confers civil and military awards to recognize the contributions of individuals who have excelled in various fields.