Pakistan day: Old pictures of national heroes put up to inspire new ones
People from different walks of life took great interest in the photo exhibit.
An exhibition featuring 150 photographs of independence movement leaders was set up at the Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) on Wednesday to mark Pakistan Day. Prominently featured were photographs of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Dr Muhammad Iqbal, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and Muhammad Ali Johar. People from different walks of life took great interest in the photo exhibit, which will continue till March 28.
Uzma Hussain, a student from Fatima Jinnah Women’s University, said, “I came specifically for the exhibition.” She said it is very sad that the younger generation has little familiarity with those who sacrificed so much for independence.
RAC also organised a cultural programme. Nadia Hashmi and Aqeel Ahmed and the rest of the group enchanted the audience with the two skits they performed. The first skit was on Jinnah’s struggle and was particularly well done. The second skit highlighted students’ struggle for independence.
The programme ended with local musicians taking up the stage to sing Noor Jehan’s 1965 song “aey puttar hattan tay naee wikday” (our brave sons are irreplaceable). The performance was heartfelt and the rendition beautiful.
A visitor, Muhammad Arif, said, “This is a great platform for youngsters who participate. Such events should be organised regularly.”
Speaking at the occasion, Member National Assembly Tahira Aurangzeb, the chief guest, said, “There is dire need to create awareness among the younger generation about our national heroes and their struggle for Pakistan.”
Published in The Express Tribune, March 24th, 2011.