Paying tribute: Quaid’s teachings key to success, says MNA Shafiq

Young singers display their talents in national song competition

RAWALPINDI: The creation of a separate homeland for Muslims of the Indian subcontinent would never have been possible had it not been for Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s great leadership.

This was stated by Member National Assembly Sheikh Rasheed Shafiq on Tuesday at a cake-cutting ceremony organised by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) to mark the 142nd birth anniversary of the nation’s founder.

Shafiq said Quaid-i-Azam was a great leader. His personality, Shafiq said, was a beacon for the entire nation and we can put our country on to the path of success and prosperity by following his teachings.

The objective of inheriting a prosperous Pakistan to the next generation was only possible by complying with Quaid's motto of unity, faith and discipline, he added.

He lauded RCCI's efforts in promoting trade activities and expressed hope that it will continue and carry the legacy of great values.

Speaking on the occasion, RCCI President Malik Shahid Saleem said our ancestors had rendered innumerable sacrifices for the creation of the country and now it was our duty to strive for a stable, peaceful and developed Pakistan.

Ambassador of Tajikistan Jonov Sher Ali also attended the ceremony. A special documentary was also aired on the life of Quaid-i-Azam on the occasion.

National song contest

Young amateur singers on Tuesday paid tribute to Ali Jinnah on his 142nd birth anniversary through a "Mili Naghmas (national songs)’ contest, “Tribute to Quaid" in the federal capital.

The event was organised by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage — Lok Virsa. Only amateur youngsters, between 12-18 years-of-age took part in the event and presented national songs to pay tribute to the father of the nation for his valuable contribution towards the creation of Pakistan.

Later, cash prizes were awarded, with Rs15,000 awarded to the singer who secured first place, Rs10,000 for second and Rs8,000 for third place on the recommendations of a jury comprising experts in the field of music.

Two consolation prizes of Rs5,000 each were also awarded to the contestants securing fourth and fifth positions.

According to the organisers, the event was an opportunity for young people to explore their hidden talent and show their skills on a platform of national level, while such contests also create awareness among the youngsters about the significance of celebrating national days.  

Published in The Express Tribune, December 26^th, 2018.