Quaid-e-Azam Day, is one of the most important national days in Pakistan. It is observed every year on December 25 to honor the birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. This day reminds the nation of his struggle, vision, and lifelong commitment to the rights of Muslims in the subcontinent.
In 2025, Pakistan celebrated the 149th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam on Thursday, December 25. Across the country, people paid tribute to the great leader who turned a dream into reality. The day was marked with respect, prayers, and renewed promises to follow his teachings.
Quaid Day is special for another reason as well. December 25 also falls on Christmas, making it a dual public holiday. To honor the Christian community, the government also declared December 26 as a special holiday in 2025. This gesture reflects the inclusive and tolerant Pakistan that Quaid-e-Azam had envisioned.
The day usually begins with military honors. A 31-gun salute is fired in Islamabad, while 21-gun salutes are held in all provincial capitals. These salutes symbolize the nation’s respect for its founding father. At dawn, special prayers are offered in mosques after Fajr for the Quaid’s soul and for the peace, progress, and prosperity of Pakistan.
One of the most dignified events of the day is the change of guard ceremony at Mazar-i-Quaid in Karachi. Senior officers of the armed forces take part in this prestigious ceremony. It reflects discipline, unity, and respect for the man who laid the foundation of the country.
Throughout the day, the national flag is hoisted on government buildings, private offices, and homes. Streets, buildings, and monuments are decorated with lights, banners, and portraits of Quaid-e-Azam. His famous quotes remind people of his guiding principles: unity, faith, and discipline.
Educational institutions play an important role on Quaid Day. Schools, colleges, and universities organize seminars, debates, speeches, and exhibitions. Students learn about Quaid-e-Azam’s leadership, his political struggle, and his vision for a democratic and fair Pakistan. These activities help the younger generation understand the importance of honesty, hard work, and respect for law.
Pakistan’s civil and military leadership also highlighted Quaid-e-Azam’s vision on his birth anniversary. Leaders described him as a visionary statesman of global stature. They emphasized that his dream was not just to create a country, but to build a strong, democratic, and inclusive state where all citizens enjoy equal rights.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, said that Quaid Day gives the nation a chance to reflect and renew its commitment to Jinnah’s principles. He stressed democracy, constitutional rule, social justice, religious harmony, and the idea of a welfare state based on equality and the rule of law. The prime minister urged the nation to move forward by following these values in true spirit.
President Asif Ali Zardari also paid rich tribute to Quaid-e-Azam. He emphasized the lasting relevance of Jinnah’s leadership and said that his ideas still guide Pakistan in facing modern challenges. According to the president, Quaid-e-Azam’s vision continues to inspire the nation during difficult times.
The president said that Quaid-e-Azam showed great conviction, patience, and dedication. Through hard work and strong belief, he laid the foundation of Pakistan. His principles of democracy, justice, and equality remain central to the country’s journey and must guide institutions and decision-making processes.
President Zardari also highlighted Quaid-e-Azam’s famous call for unity, faith, and discipline. He said these values give clear direction to the nation and are essential for progress, social harmony, and national confidence. Without these principles, true development is not possible.
Looking ahead, Quaid Day has even greater importance. The president announced that 2026 will be officially declared the “Year of Quaid-i-Azam”. This will mark his 150th birth anniversary. The year will include special programs, discussions, and activities to promote Quaid-e-Azam’s teachings and remind the nation of its responsibilities.
Quaid Day is not just a holiday. It is a day of reflection. It reminds Pakistanis that freedom came after great sacrifices. It encourages people to rise above differences and work together for a better future.
As the nation celebrates Quaid Day, the message is clear: Pakistan can only move forward by following the path shown by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. His vision remains the guiding light for unity, justice, and progress.