Independence Day is always an important occasion in the life of any nation, and so it is for us Pakistanis. Everyone has their own way of expressing their love and appreciation for the country and this year was no different, despite of the fact that Pakistan has been struggling to survive the bloodiest times of times recently. Yet people are not letting go of hope and believe this will come to an end one day soon.

Every country has its flaws, no country is perfect, and everyone wants to improve the country’s and their own conditions and overcome the obstacles and Pakistan is no less. People from different backgrounds made videos to express their sentiments and give a message on Independence Day 2016.

CFX Comics is one setup that is working through the medium of comics to give a message of peace and hope to change mindsets for a better Pakistan. On this 14 August they made a video with Shirkat Gah and Kashaf Foundation demanding security and respect for women. The video shows how women were used, raped and killed, during partition in 1947 in the moments of hate and anger. Today also they are suffering in Pakistan in one form or the other. The video shows that the concept of man’s honor hides in a woman has to be shunned.

Working under the leadership of Dr Umer Saif, Peaceful Pakistan is working towards promoting peace, unity and interfaith harmony in. their Independence Day video reminds us of the sacrifices given by our elders in achieving this land. But the important point is, Ryan Joseph a young child, reminds us of our existence. That is the core message, the youth should be aware of its history and roots.

Ideas Brand is known to all, however what people don’t know is they have taken a step forward in empowering women and girls in the field of sports! They have done a great job of renovating the Lyari Women's Boxing Club; this is such an inspirational video showing women given space to excel and fulfill their dreams. Independence Day 2016 has been very special for the Boxing girls of Lyari.

Sooper Biscuits a popular brand of Peek Freans released a video full of vibrant colors of Pakistan. It’s message that our country is more than what is shown in the media and it just needs to be explored for you to fall in love with it once again is beautifully rendered. Based on traditional music the clothes, instruments and real life locations add life to it. It makes the viewer crave for more, to witness it live, to feel it.

US Ambassador to Pakistan Mr. David Hale gave a message on Independence Day saying that he wished prosperity and progress for Pakistan. US and Pakistan have a long history of friendly ties. He acknowledged that Pakistanis are doing a remarkable job in every field.

Patari the online music hub created by a group of young entrepreneurs Khalid Bajwa, Iqbal Talaat Bhatti and Humayun Haroon is the largest Music streaming portal in Pakistan with apps on Android and iSO, also compiled a list of songs for Independence Day, starting from Dil Dil Pakistan to Sathio Mujahido. Everyone has grown up listening to these ‘taranas’ it would be a good walk down the memory lane once again!

Our cricket team, with the help of Pakistan Cricket Board and Jazz came forward to send wishes to us on this day. Younis Khan, Sami Aslam and Muhammad Hafeez recorded their statements. Pakistanis thanked the cricket team for the wonderful gift of beating the English team today.

Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif in his message paid tribute to all those who have sacrificed their lives in making Pakistan. Punjab CM also spoke about those who have laid down their lives in the war against terror and said he hope to make a better Pakistan by fighting against terrorism.

Last but not the least, Coke Studio released their eagerly awaited season this year. Coke Studio always a special event for everyone this year it features the a voice no longer with us, and Amjad Sabri’s voice will be heard for the last time this season. The preview of the national song “Aye Rahe Haq kay Shaheedo” was released few days ago before Independence Dayand became an instant making the absence of Amjad Sabri, an irreplaceable voice felt more deeply.

Perhaps the best message to come out of this 14 August 2016 was a post on social media from Karachi that said “Pretty decent feeling to see only one flag all over town.”

Independence Day 2016 mubarak all!