MQM-P celebrates Mohajir identity

Governor says Mohajir Culture Day celebrated at state level for first time

KARACHI:

The Mohajir Culture Day was celebrated in Karachi and Hyderabad on Tuesday.

The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) had announced plans to celebrate 'Mouhajir Culture Day' on Dec 24 in an effort to honour the cultural heritage and contributions of the Mohajir community.

Urdu speaking youth in traditional kurta pajama took out rallies, while the central event took place at Governor House. Addressing the gathering, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori remarked that, for the first time, Mohajir Culture Day was being celebrated at state level.

He said, "Our elders made great sacrifices, leaving behind their homes to migrate to the new country Pakistan."

To this day, he said, this community continues to contribute to Pakistan through its sacrifices. "We ask every political party to work together on a single agenda - stabilise Pakistan economically and ensure it stands on its own feet."

Governor Tessori emphasised, "The foundation of this movement is built on its martyrs and the missing persons. Our lives and efforts are devoted to Pakistan." MQM-P Chairman Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui said "for years, cultural days of Sindhi, Baloch, and other communities have been celebrated at the Governor House. Today, we are celebrating Mohajir Culture Day, which in fact is Pakistan's Culture Day."

He said that the Mohajir people are the bearers of the national language and the custodians of the heritage of Pakistan movement. If anyone dares to cast an evil eye on it, they will be dealt with. Let me warn people living in this city along the sea, respect the limits."

Siddiqui further declared, "Mohajirs are the true heirs of this nation. We do not need a certificate of loyalty. Our culture is our strength, and we will make it Pakistan's strength. Those who tried to obstruct migrants' progress have now given up."

Senior leader Dr Farooq Sattar remarked, "for the first time, Mohajir Culture Day is being celebrated in a state institution. Over 70 years past the formation of Pakistan, the migrants continue to face the issue of identity. Why is it necessary to inquire about their parents' domiciles in addition to their own?"

MQM-P leader Anees Qaimkhani shared, "my forefathers came to Pakistan, sacrificing the lives of two million people. They came here at the request of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. I came here to become Pakistani and live in Pakistan. While others take pride in being Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtun, or Baloch, my elders taught me to take the greatest pride in being Pakistani. Pakistan runs in my blood."

MQM leader Haider Abbas Rizvi said, "There is much to say, but today I thank Allah for the fact that, in prominent state institutions across Pakistan, the slogan of 'Mohajir' is being chanted. As long as migrants are alive, they will give their lives to protect Pakistan."

The event concluded with a spectacular display of fireworks, and artists also showcased their talents, adding to the festivities.