Let’s celebrate this Independence day by revisiting and relearning what our national anthem is really all about. Read on as we deconstruct our Qaumi Taranah in hopes to recalibrate as a nation.
Our Qaumi Taranah holds great importance for all citizens of Pakistan and its soul-stirring lyrics and composition reverberate within our souls as a nation. It is a reflection of all our progress and a continuous reminder of what we stand for. It teaches us humility, discipline, and above all, unites us in the name of brotherhood under one flag. Simply put, it is our Pehchaan, our identity!
But have we ever really understood what it means, what it signifies and how it stands the test of time? Why not celebrate Independence Day this year by taking a closer look at what the lyrics for Pak Sar Zameen signify?
A Unified Making
The lyrics of the national anthem were written by Hafeez Jalandhari, a renowned Urdu poet, in 1952. The lyrics by Jalandhri were heavily influenced by classical Persian vocabulary. Though since Urdu borrows heavily from Persian, Jalandhri composed and arranged the verses in a clever manner that the anthem could easily be understood by anyone fluent in both Urdu and Persian.
The nation was 7 years young and at the time, Pakistan was still in search of a suitable national anthem, and a competition was held to select one. Hafeez Jalandhri’s lyrics were chosen as the winning entry and the music for the anthem was composed by Ahmad G. Chagla, who was a musical composer and historian, while also an author, journalist, and writer. Heading the national anthem commitee Chagla’s composition was selected as the official music for the anthem. The melody beautifully complemented the patriotic sentiments expressed in the lyrics. The musical composition is also a testament to the fusion of cultures that define Pakistan.
This story is one of teamwork and bringing elements of two cultures together under one purpose. Isn’t this what Jinnah meant when he spoke of unity? The national anthem’s very creation acts as an example to all Pakistanis and the fact that it is a culmination of multiple cultures signifying the diversity that still exists in our country. It also shows that this diversity should not stand in the way of unity, but be more of a reason to come together.
Its Relevance Today
We hope we can do justice to the anthem as more than just a habitual performance on Independence day or state events. Even though it was written in 1952, its words still hold meaning today, making it a timeless composition, one to be embraced with the heart! This characteristic is seen in “Tarjuman-e-Mazi, Shan-e-Hal-Jaan-e-Istaqbaal” Meaning “Interpreter of our past,” acknowledging the historical roots and sacrifices made, while also being the “glory of our present” and an “Inspiration for our future.”
“Markazi yaqeen shaad baad” references to “the citadel of faith” highlighting the importance of religious harmony and tolerance in the country, tenets which we all realize, need a revisit in every generation. This message remains significant since we as a society continue to grapple with issues related to religious diversity and coexistence. With growth comes ambition and in today’s rapidly changing world, where countries strive for development and advancements in various fields, our anthem’s message of aiming high and progressing is a motivator to push forth for growth.
”Kishwar-e-Haseen Shaad Baad” – “bounteous realm” refers to the abundance of resources and blessings that the our land provides, highlighting the potential for prosperity.
“Tu Nishane Azm, Aalishan, Arz-e-Pakistan – Symbol of high resolve, land of Pakistan” verily reminds us of the sacrifices made by the country’s founders and citizens to secure Pakistan’s independence. A reminder we so need as the nation navigates through its many unfortunate upheavals, leads to a sense of pride in the country’s heritage and accomplishments which might be the only durable thread holding the country together through all its turmoils.
A Message To And For The People This Independence Day
Beyond fostering unity between citizens, the national anthem gives all Pakistanis a sense of national identity. It allows them to feel like they are part of something greater than themselves. The music and lyrics of a national anthem evoke strong emotions of pride, belonging, and loyalty among citizens. It acts as a constant in their lives, an anchor amidst an ever-changing world. The lyrics are a reminder of values to live by. We sincerely hope we all are in some way or another reminded of the dire sacrifices, ideologies and struggles our decaying nation was built upon and instead of just celebrating with loud music and congested roads, our beloved flag being walked, run and driven over showcasing the respect we have for it – we can actually look inwards to retrace our steps and see if we are still willing to salvage the nation we keep testing the bounds of.
And on that note, Happy Independence Day and Pakistan Zindabad, Pak Sarzamin Shaad Baad.
