A devoted citizen and skilled craftsman from Karachi has completed an exact-scale model of Mazar-e-Quaid after eight months of painstaking labour - a tribute to the Father of the Nation, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, on the occasion of Pakistan's 77th Independence Day.
The impressive replica, created by Haq Nawaz, popularly known in the area as "Akko Painter", reproduces the mausoleum's white marble dome, all four entrance gates, and surrounding lawns. Built from wood, chipboard, plywood, lasani, plastic, and iron, the model is fitted with LED lights that illuminate it at night, mirroring the radiant glow of the actual Mazar-e-Quaid.
The replica will be unveiled at Lasbela Chowk late on August 13 and will remain on public display throughout August 14.
"Every year, I make a model of Mazar-e-Quaid and add new features. This year I have worked on the internal and external gates - Bab-e-Jinnah, Bab-e-Quaideen, Bab-e-Tanzeem, Bab-e-Imam and Bab-e-Ittehad - with intricate detailing," said Nawaz while speaking to reporters as he described the project "the fulfilment of a long-cherished dream."
The craftsman said the construction was "technically challenging" and required over 15 visits to Mazar-e-Quaid to study its design closely. "I thought it would be like painting a picture, but once I began, I realised the architecture is far more complex and reflects deep thought and skill," he added. The scaled-down version of the 61-acre complex incorporates precise measurements, photographs, and available blueprints. Special paints were used to match the joints of the white marble, while the delicately patterned grills at the main entrances proved one of the toughest elements to replicate.
To capture the grandeur of the original, battery-powered LED lights have replaced the floodlights, enabling the model to glow for up to eight hours at night. Artificial grass, carpets, and plastic flower pots recreate the surrounding greenery, while miniature figurines depict the ceremonial Pakistan Navy guard atop the mausoleum and Sindh Police personnel and vehicles stationed at the gates.
Nawaz said his aim was to inspire the younger generation with the story of Quaid-i-Azam's tireless struggle for independence. "This free homeland is his legacy. I want young people to know the sacrifices that brought us here," he said.
Local residents hailed the work as a remarkable symbol of love for the Quaid, pride in Pakistan's history, and devotion to the national heritage. "Every year, people look forward to seeing his latest version," one resident said. "It has become a tradition for our neighbourhood and a source of inspiration for all."
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