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Today marks 77 years of Pakistan’s independence and, like every year, there’s so much to celebrate and reflect upon. Each year brings new challenges and achievements for nations around the world and for a nation that prides itself on its culture, our celebrities have much to say.

This Independence Day, like all preceding ones, artists, activists, and athletes from across the country are sharing their heartfelt wishes for Pakistan. This is also the first time Pakistanis are having to resort to Instagram to commemorate August 14, as the ban on X (previously Twitter) continues.

Unlike previous Independence Day celebrations, artists are also expressing concern about the work that needs to be done to ensure peace prevails. While many are grateful for the freedoms afforded to them, others are demanding better infrastructure and equal rights for all.

“I love my Pakistanis, I love our land, and I pray for a day with more peace, more infrastructure, more security, more love, more stability and more prosperity,” singer and philanthropist Hadiqa Kiani shared in an Instagram post.

“There is a lot of work to do and we have the power to do it, together. I pray for our Pakistan, I pray for our people,” she added.

Sharing a photo with her family, activist Malala Yousafzai wrote, “Happy Independence Day to all Pakistanis, at home and around the world.”

The Nobel laureate took a moment to congratulate Pakistani Olympians, especially Arshad Nadeem, for making the country proud. “I want to congratulate our amazing Olympians for their hard work and for representing Pakistan’s potential on the world’s stage. A special shout out to Javelin thrower, Arshad Nadeem, for bringing home gold and setting an Olympic record!”

The girls’ education activist added, “My message to Pakistan’s youth especially girls is to keep working hard to achieve your goals and stay focused on school, get involved in sports and find ways to serve your community. Together, we can move Pakistan forward in a better direction and build a brighter future. I hope we will keep fighting together to ensure all Pakistani youth — especially girls — have equal rights and access to education.”

Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem requested everyone to celebrate Independence Day as a nation — united — the way they celebrated his victory on August 8. The javelin player urged everyone to change their Instagram profile pictures to the Pakistani flag to tell the world we stand united.

Model and actor Rabia Butt reminded everyone that Pakistan, like a mother, cannot be blamed for the doings of her children, her inhabitants. She can only be thanked for providing its children a place to exist — to be.

Actor Adnan Siddiqui held that today is the time to “deeply appreciate the freedom and opportunities we enjoy.”

“It’s a moment to remember the courage of those who made it possible and to reflect on how those values continue to shape our lives,” he said. “Wishing everyone a very happy Independence Day! Pakistan Zindabad!”

Actor and singer Fakhar-e-Alam simply shared a photo of himself waving the Pakistani flag to wish his beloved country a “Happy Birthday!”

Others simply wished their followers a happy Independence Day!

As messages keep pouring in, Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day serves as a reminder of the collective pride and resilience of its people.