Tribute on the Death Anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Founder of Pakistan

rki.news

By Ahsan Ansari

Every year on 11th September, the entire nation solemnly observes the death anniversary of the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, with deep reverence and respect. His passing in 1948, just one year after the creation of Pakistan, was an irreparable loss for the young nation. Jinnah was not merely a political leader—he was a visionary statesman who transformed the dreams of the Muslims of the subcontinent into reality by laying the foundations of a free homeland, Pakistan. His leadership, determination, and political foresight remain a beacon of light not only for the people of Pakistan but also for the entire Muslim world.
Quaid-e-Azam was born on 25th December 1876 in Karachi. From an early age, his intelligence, hard work, and sense of responsibility were evident. For higher education, he traveled to Britain, where he studied law. On his return to India, he entered the field of advocacy, and because of his eloquence and legal expertise, he was soon counted among the finest lawyers of the subcontinent. Yet his true calling was not in the courtroom but in the political arena, where he was destined to change the course of history.
In the early years of his political career, Jinnah was hailed as the “Ambassador of Hindu-Muslim Unity.” He made tireless efforts to build harmony between the two communities and strongly believed in a united India. However, with time it became clear to him that Muslims would never receive justice in a democratic India without the protection of their distinct identity and interests. The narrow-mindedness and intolerance of the Congress led him to the conclusion that only a separate homeland could guarantee the future of Muslims.
Under Jinnah’s leadership, the All India Muslim League emerged as a powerful political force. The Lahore Resolution of 1940 proved to be a milestone in the struggle for a separate homeland for Muslims. Through Jinnah’s relentless efforts, political vision, and unwavering resolve, Pakistan finally came into being on 14th August 1947. The speeches he delivered during this period still carry messages of justice, equality, and religious freedom, serving as guiding principles for Pakistan to this day.
Unfortunately, Jinnah did not live long enough to see the full fruits of his monumental struggle. Soon after independence, his health began to decline rapidly, and on 11th September 1948, he passed away. The news of his death cast the entire nation into mourning. The people felt orphaned, for they had lost not only a leader but also a guide and a savior.
The death anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam is not only a reminder of his struggle for independence but also an opportunity to reflect on his vision. He dreamed of a Pakistan built on democratic principles, where all citizens, regardless of religion or sect, would enjoy equal rights. In his historic speech of 11th August 1947, he famously declared that every individual was free to go to their temple, mosque, or any place of worship. These words remain a source of light for Pakistan even today.
Sadly, the challenges Pakistan faces today remind us how far we have drifted from the principles of our founder. Political instability, economic crises, and social divisions can only be resolved by returning to the Quaid’s guiding motto: Unity, Faith, and Sacrifice. If we adopt these principles in our lives, Pakistan can overcome its difficulties and fulfill the dream envisioned by its founder.
The anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam is not merely a day of mourning but an occasion to reassess our individual and collective responsibilities. The true purpose of remembering his sacrifices is to carry forward his mission so that Pakistan can become a prosperous, tolerant, and just state.
The world also acknowledges Jinnah’s greatness. The renowned historian Stanley Wolpert once wrote: “Few individuals significantly alter the course of history. Fewer still modify the map of the world. Hardly anyone can be credited with creating a nation-state. Muhammad Ali Jinnah did all three.” These words best highlight Jinnah’s stature and his enduring place in history.
Today, as the nation remembers its founder, we must pledge to turn his dreams into reality. His mission was justice, equality, and tolerance—and realizing that mission will be the truest tribute to him. If every citizen plays their role with sincerity, Pakistan can reach new heights of progress.
On 11th September, we bow our heads in reverence and remember the sacrifices of that great leader who gifted us freedom. His dream gave us a homeland, his struggle gave us identity, and his vision continues to show us the way forward. Now it is our duty to safeguard that dream and shape Pakistan into the strong, enlightened state that Quaid-e-Azam had envisioned.