Tantara of toy horns heralds arrival of August 14

City echoes with sound of vuvuzelas in hands of children, while elders hoist flags, decorate buildings

KARACHI:

Like buggles of the past, the vuvuzelas herald the arrival of the Independence Day.

The young ones take the liberty around the Independence Day to blow the horns, though many people consider it a nuisance.

Recently, the district administration of the federal capital imposed a ban on the sale of these horns which juveniles blare riding in gangs on bikes with cylinders removed.

However, the vibrant and lively city of Karachi bears the ear shattering tantara with many citizens saying let the youngsters have some fun in these bleak times plagued with inflation and crime.

Like the rest of the country, Karachi will celebrate Independence Day on August 14 with grandeur. National flags have been hoisted on buildings, houses, and public places throughout the city. Most buildings have also been illuminated with the national flag colour lights.

In addition to the national flags, toy horns are commonly buoght item especially by the children and youngsters on the occasion.

Vendors report exponential increase in sale of toy horns which are available in eight different types at a price from Rs50 to Rs500 and a little more.

The plastic vuvuzelas have become a symbol of August 14 celebrations, with children blowing them in the streets and lanes to show their happiness. However, the harsh noise of toy horns annoys the elderly people and patients.

A social leader has advised children and youth to be considerate and ensure their celebrations do not cause harm to others. He emphasised that people should celebrate the Independence Day while considering the respect of elderly and well-being of other people.

The Express Tribune has prepared a report on goods sold for Independence Day celebrations.

Naseem Ahmad Usmani, a 92-year-old veteran of the freedom struggle, remarked that Pakistan's independence is a blessing. He noted that under Quaid-e-Azam's leadership, Muslims in the Indian subcontinent fought for freedom, and after sacrifices, Pakistan came into existence on August 14, 1947.

Usmani emphasized that it is everyone's duty to cherish freedom, as only living nations celebrate their independence. He highlighted the selfless love Pakistanis have for their country, which is why Independence Day is celebrated every year on August 14.

Usmani noted that the new generation celebrates the day to send a message of their immense love for their country to the world.

Faisal, a shopkeeper who sells Independence Day items, mentioned that most children are enthusiastic about the holiday. However, the young boys and girls of the new generation are equally passionate about celebrating Independence Day.

He noted that small national flags made of cloth and plastic, in different sizes, are being sold for prices ranging from Rs10 to Rs300. Meanwhile, larger flags for houses are being sold for Rs400 to Rs1,500 and more. Packets of different types of small decorative flags are available for price ranging from Rs40 to Rs100. National flag badges of various designs and sizes are being sold for Rs20 to Rs500. Headbands, hand bands, and various decorative items are priced between Rs20 and Rs200. Various types of caps are available for Rs40 to Rs500 or more. Dresses and t-shirts are being sold for Rs200 to Rs2,000.

Faisal also mentioned that compared to previous years, the prices of these items have increased by 30 to 50 per cent.

Mah Noor, a student of Class 7, said that she has completed preparations for Independence Day. She said that she has bought a small toy horn for Rs100.

Sheikh Nisar Parchamwale, a prominent businessman ho manufactures and sells the national flag in different sizes, said that preparations for the Independence Day celebrations begin on August 1 and continue till late at night on August 14.

He said that toy horns are manufactured locally and this is a must item on this occasion.

Faizur Rahman, a local social worker, mentioned that the Independence Day celebration begins on August 14 eve and youth on bikes and other vehicles go out blowing horns to express their joy.

Beaches are the most popular areas where youngsters rush and celebrate the day while playing loud music, dancing and blowing horns to express their joy.

Meanwhile, Dr. Sami, an ENT specialist, explained that the loud music and excessive noise produced by toy horns can cause damage to the ears and hearing. He advised the people to avoid causing discomfort to others.