University of Sargodha

Department of Education

Subject: Pakistan Study

Submitted by: M. Kashif Riaz 36

Mohsin Abbas 11

Submitted to: Mr. Rizwan Jaffar

Topic: Festivals of Pakistan

including Social and Islamic
Festivals

Festivals are events that are celebrated to mark a special occasion, religious or cultural
significance, or historical events. These events are typically marked by a series of traditional
activities, rituals, and celebrations that are shared by a community of people. Festivals are often
an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate, often with music, dance, food, and
other forms of entertainment. They may be held annually, monthly, or for a specific period and
are often associated with a particular season or time of year. Festivals play an important role in
promoting cultural diversity and understanding, bringing people together, and strengthening
community bonds.

Islamic Festivals of Pakistan

Eid ul-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr, also known as the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," is one of the most important
Islamic holidays celebrated by Muslims worldwide. The holiday marks the end of the month-
long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan, which is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar.

Eid al-Fitr is typically celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic
calendar. However, the exact date of the holiday can vary from country to country depending on
the sighting of the new moon. In many countries, the holiday lasts for three days and is a time for
families and friends to gather and celebrate.

During Eid al-Fitr, Muslims wake up early in the morning, take a shower, and put on their best
clothes. They then attend special prayers, which are held in mosques or large open areas, such as
parks or fields. These prayers typically involve a sermon and a collective recitation of the Takbir,
which is a declaration of faith.

After the prayers, Muslims visit their friends and family, exchange gifts, and share traditional
foods. In many countries, it is customary to give money or gifts to children, and many families
prepare special Eid dishes, such as biryani, samosas, and desserts.

Eid al-Fitr is a time for forgiveness and reflection, and it is also a time to remember those who
are less fortunate. Muslims are encouraged to give to charity during the holiday, and many
mosques and charitable organizations organize special Eid events to help those in need.

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is one of the most important Islamic
holidays celebrated by Muslims worldwide. The holiday commemorates the willingness of
Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, as an act of obedience to Allah (God).
Eid al-Adha falls on the tenth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. It
is celebrated for four days and is considered the second most important festival after Eid al-Fitr.

During Eid al-Adha, Muslims traditionally sacrifice an animal such as a sheep, goat, cow, or
camel as a symbol of Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat is then
distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate.

In addition to the sacrifice, Muslims also perform special prayers, gather with family and friends,
and exchange greetings and gifts. It is a time for forgiveness, reflection, and gratitude.

Eid al-Adha also marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which is one of the Five Pillars
of Islam. Muslims who are physically and financially able to do so, are required to perform the
Hajj at least once in their lifetime.

Eid Milad un-Nabi

Milad un-Nabi, also known as Mawlid or Eid Milad-un-Nabi, is a Muslim holiday that
commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. The word "Milad" means birth, and "Nabi"
means prophet.

Milad un-Nabi is celebrated on the 12th day of Rabi' al-Awwal, the third month in the Islamic
calendar, which is believed to be the exact date of the Prophet's birth. The celebration of Milad
un-Nabi is not mentioned in the Qur'an, but it is widely celebrated by Muslims around the world.

The celebration of Milad un-Nabi varies from region to region and from country to country. In
some Muslim countries, the day is marked with religious processions, public speeches, and
special prayers in mosques. In other countries, it is celebrated with family gatherings, feasts, and
the exchange of gifts.

Some Muslims consider the celebration of Milad un-Nabi to be a bid'ah or innovation, as it is not
specifically mentioned in the Qur'an or the hadith (the sayings and actions of the Prophet
Muhammad). However, many Muslims believe that celebrating the Prophet's birth is a way to
honor him and express gratitude for his teachings and guidance.

Milad un-Nabi is an important day in the Islamic calendar, and it is a time for Muslims to reflect
on the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and to renew their commitment to following
his example.

Shab e Barat

Shab-e-Barat, also known as the Night of Forgiveness or Night of Deliverance, is a Muslim

holiday that is observed on the 14th night of the Islamic month of Sha'ban. It is believed to be a
night of great importance in the Islamic calendar, as it is believed to be a night of forgiveness,
mercy, and blessings.
The significance of Shab-e-Barat can be traced back to Islamic traditions and teachings. It is
believed that on this night, Allah Almighty forgives the sins of believers who seek forgiveness
and repentance. The Prophet Muhammad also emphasized the importance of the night and
encouraged Muslims to pray, fast, and seek forgiveness on this night.

Muslims around the world observe Shab-e-Barat in different ways. Some Muslims spend the
night in prayer, reciting the Qur'an, and performing other religious rituals. Others visit the graves
of their loved ones to offer prayers and seek forgiveness for them. Some also light up their
homes and streets with candles and decorate them with lights to celebrate the night.

In many Muslim countries, special foods and desserts are prepared on this night and shared with
family, friends, and neighbors. It is also a time for giving to the poor and needy, as acts of
charity are considered particularly meritorious on this night.

Shab-e-Barat is a night of great significance in the Islamic calendar, and it provides an

opportunity for Muslims to reflect on their actions and seek forgiveness and mercy from Allah
Almighty.

Ashura

Ashura is an important day of fasting and mourning for Muslims that occurs on the 10th day of
Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. It is observed by both Sunni and Shia
Muslims, although the way it is observed differs between the two groups.

For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a day of great significance as it marks the martyrdom of Hussain
ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, at the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. Hussain's death
is considered a tragic event and is remembered as a symbol of sacrifice, resistance against
oppression, and loyalty to the principles of Islam. The commemoration of Ashura for Shia
Muslims is a solemn and sorrowful occasion marked by mourning processions, recitation of
elegies, and speeches that reflect on the meaning and lessons of the martyrdom of Hussain.

For Sunni Muslims, Ashura is a day of great importance as it marks the day when Moses was
saved from the pharaoh by Allah. It is believed that Prophet Muhammad fasted on this day and
encouraged his followers to do the same. Sunni Muslims observe this day by fasting, offering
special prayers, and giving charity to the poor and needy.

The observance of Ashura varies across Muslim communities and countries. In some Muslim
countries, such as Iran, Iraq, and Pakistan, Ashura is a public holiday and is observed with large
processions, marches, and rituals. In other countries, it is observed as a solemn day of
remembrance and reflection.

Ashura is an important day of mourning, reflection, and remembrance for Muslims. It is a time to
reflect on the values of sacrifice, courage, and resistance against oppression, as well as a time to
seek forgiveness, repentance, and mercy from Allah.
Laila Tul Qadar

Lailatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Decree or Night of Power, is a significant night for
Muslims that occurs during the last ten nights of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic
calendar. It is believed to be the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the
Prophet Muhammad.

Lailatul Qadr is considered to be one of the most blessed and significant nights in the Islamic
calendar, and it is believed that worship and prayer on this night is more valuable than worship
on a thousand months. Muslims around the world observe Lailatul Qadr by engaging in acts of
worship and devotion, such as recitation of the Quran, offering special prayers, supplications,
and remembrance of Allah.

The significance of Lailatul Qadr can be traced back to Islamic traditions and teachings. The
Quran describes Lailatul Qadr as "better than a thousand months" (Quran 97:3), emphasizing the
significance of this night. The Prophet Muhammad also encouraged his followers to seek out
Lailatul Qadr, saying that it falls on one of the odd nights during the last ten days of Ramadan.

Muslims around the world observe Lailatul Qadr in different ways. Many spend the night in
prayer and recitation of the Quran, while others engage in acts of charity and kindness. Some
also visit mosques and participate in special prayers and congregational worship.

Social Festivals of Pakistan

Independence Day

The Independence Day of Pakistan is celebrated on August 14 every year to commemorate the
country's independence from British rule in 1947. It is a national holiday in Pakistan and is
celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotism across the country.

The independence movement in British India began in the early 20th century, with the Indian
National Congress and the All-India Muslim League leading the struggle for freedom. In 1940,
the Muslim League passed the Pakistan Resolution, which called for the creation of a separate
Muslim state in the northern and northwestern regions of British India.

After years of struggle and negotiations, the British government agreed to the creation of
Pakistan on August 14, 1947. The first governor-general of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah,
hoisted the national flag at the Constituent Assembly building in Karachi, the country's first
capital.

The Independence Day of Pakistan is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across the
country. The day begins with the hoisting of the national flag at government buildings, private
residences, and public spaces. National anthems are sung, and patriotic songs are played on
television and radio channels. Special ceremonies are held at the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali
Jinnah, where the national flag is also hoisted.

The day is also marked by parades, cultural shows, and other events organized by government
and non-government organizations. People wear green and white clothes, which are the colors of
the national flag, and decorate their homes and streets with flags, lights, and other patriotic
symbols.

The Independence Day of Pakistan is a significant day in the country's history and is celebrated
with great enthusiasm and national pride. It is a time for Pakistanis to remember the sacrifices of
their forefathers and to renew their commitment to the country's progress and prosperity.

Pakistan Day

Pakistan Day, also known as Pakistan Resolution Day, is celebrated on March 23 every year to
commemorate the adoption of the Lahore Resolution, also known as the Pakistan Resolution, by
the All India Muslim League in 1940. This day marks the beginning of the struggle for a separate
homeland for Muslims in British India.

The Lahore Resolution was passed on March 23, 1940, during a meeting of the All India Muslim
League at Minto Park, Lahore. The resolution called for the creation of an independent state for
Muslims in the northern and northwestern regions of India, which would later become Pakistan.

Pakistan Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotism across Pakistan. The day begins
with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in the provincial capitals. National
flags are hoisted at government buildings, private residences, and public spaces.

Special ceremonies and parades are held in Islamabad, the federal capital, and other cities across
the country. The main ceremony is held at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, where the
national flag is hoisted and the national anthem is sung. A guard of honor is presented by the
armed forces, and the president and prime minister of Pakistan address the nation.

The day is also marked by cultural events, including music concerts, theater performances, and
art exhibitions, organized by government and non-government organizations. People wear green
and white clothes, which are the colors of the national flag, and decorate their homes and streets
with flags, lights, and other patriotic symbols.

Pakistan Day is an important day in the country's history, and it is celebrated with great
enthusiasm and national pride. It is a time for Pakistanis to remember the struggles and sacrifices
of their forefathers and to renew their commitment to the country's progress and prosperity.

Defence Day

Defense Day, also known as Youm-e-Difa, is celebrated in Pakistan on September 6 every year
to commemorate the sacrifices of the soldiers who defended the country against the Indian army
during the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War. It is a national holiday in Pakistan and is celebrated with
great enthusiasm and patriotism across the country.

The 1965 war between India and Pakistan began on September 6, when the Indian army
launched a surprise attack on Pakistan's border. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the
Pakistani soldiers fought bravely and defended their country with great courage and
determination.

Pakistanis celebrate Defense Day by remembering the sacrifices of their soldiers and honoring
their courage and bravery. The day begins with a 21-gun salute in the federal capital and other
cities across the country. National flags are hoisted at government buildings, private residences,
and public spaces.

Special ceremonies are held at the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of
Pakistan, where the national flag is also hoisted. People also visit the graves of the soldiers who
gave their lives for the country and offer prayers for their souls.

The day is also marked by parades, cultural shows, and other events organized by government
and non-government organizations. People wear green and white clothes, which are the colors of
the national flag, and decorate their homes and streets with flags, lights, and other patriotic
symbols.

Defense Day is an important day in Pakistan's history, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm
and national pride. It is a time for Pakistanis to remember the sacrifices of their soldiers and to
renew their commitment to the country's defense and security.

Iqbal Day

Iqbal Day is celebrated in Pakistan on November 9 every year to commemorate the birth
anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, one of the most prominent poets and philosophers of
the Indian subcontinent. It is a national holiday in Pakistan and is celebrated with great
enthusiasm and reverence across the country.

Allama Muhammad Iqbal was born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot, British India. He is known
for his poetry and philosophy, which inspired the Pakistan Movement and played a crucial role in
the creation of Pakistan in 1947.

Iqbal Day is celebrated by remembering the life and achievements of Allama Muhammad Iqbal
and his contributions to literature, philosophy, and the Pakistan Movement. The day begins with
a 21-gun salute in the federal capital and other cities across the country. National flags are
hoisted at government buildings, private residences, and public spaces.
Special ceremonies are held at the mausoleum of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, where people offer
prayers and recite his poetry. People also visit his birthplace and other places associated with his
life to pay their respects.

The day is also marked by cultural events, including poetry recitals, music concerts, and art
exhibitions, organized by government and non-government organizations. People wear green and
white clothes, which are the colors of the national flag, and decorate their homes and streets with
flags, lights, and other patriotic symbols.

Iqbal Day is an important day in Pakistan's history, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and
reverence. It is a time for Pakistanis to remember the life and achievements of Allama
Muhammad Iqbal and to renew their commitment to the values of his poetry and philosophy.

Quaid Day

Quaid Day, also known as Quaid-e-Azam Day, is celebrated in Pakistan on December 25 every
year to commemorate the birth anniversary of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. It
is a national holiday in Pakistan and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence across the
country.

Muhammad Ali Jinnah was born on December 25, 1876, in Karachi, British India. He was a
lawyer, politician, and statesman who led the movement for the creation of Pakistan as a separate
homeland for Muslims in India.

Quaid Day is celebrated by remembering the life and achievements of Muhammad Ali Jinnah
and his contributions to the Pakistan Movement. The day begins with a 21-gun salute in the
federal capital and other cities across the country. National flags are hoisted at government
buildings, private residences, and public spaces.

Special ceremonies are held at the mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, where people offer
prayers and recite his speeches. People also visit his birthplace and other places associated with
his life to pay their respects.

The day is also marked by cultural events, including poetry recitals, music concerts, and art
exhibitions, organized by government and non-government organizations. People wear green and
white clothes, which are the colors of the national flag, and decorate their homes and streets with
flags, lights, and other patriotic symbols.

Quaid Day is an important day in Pakistan's history, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm
and reverence. It is a time for Pakistanis to remember the life and achievements of Muhammad
Ali Jinnah and to renew their commitment to the values of his leadership and vision for the
country.

Jashan e Baharan
Jashn-e-Baharan, also known as the Spring Festival, is a cultural festival celebrated in Pakistan
during the spring season. The festival is celebrated in different parts of the country with great
enthusiasm and joy.

Jashn-e-Baharan is celebrated to welcome the arrival of spring, which is considered as a season

of renewal and growth. The festival is marked by various cultural activities, including music,
dance, and food, which showcase the vibrant culture and traditions of Pakistan.

The festival is celebrated in different ways in different parts of the country. In Lahore, a city in
the Punjab province of Pakistan, the festival is celebrated with a grand procession known as the
Basant Carnival. People wear colorful clothes and fly kites in the sky, which is considered a
symbol of freedom and happiness.

In other parts of the country, the festival is celebrated with traditional dance and music
performances, including the famous Punjabi dance form known as Bhangra. People also prepare
special dishes, including traditional sweets and savory snacks, to celebrate the occasion.

Jashn-e-Baharan is an important cultural festival in Pakistan, and it is celebrated with great

enthusiasm and joy. The festival provides an opportunity for people to come together and
celebrate the beauty and vibrancy of the spring season and the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan