The people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa joined the rest of the nation on May 16, 2025, in celebrating Youm-e-Tashakur (National Day of Gratitude) — a day dedicated to commemorating the historic success of Pakistan’s armed forces in the face of Indian aggression during Operation Bunyān al-Marsoos.
Across major and remote districts of the province, flag-hoisting ceremonies, Quran recitations, special prayers, and solidarity rallies were held with fervour and national pride. From Mardan to North Waziristan, and from Bannu to Karak, civil society members, local traders, students, religious scholars, and government officials took part in large numbers to honour the sacrifices and valour of the nation’s defenders.
In District Mohmand, a series of events were held including Quran recitations at Jamia Masjid Ghallanai, and flag-raising ceremonies at DC Office Mohmand and Mohmand Rifles Camp, where floral wreaths were laid at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada (Martyrs’ Memorial). Public rallies were organized along the Pak-Afghan border, highlighting local solidarity with the armed forces.
At University of Lakki Marwat (Town Campus, Tajazai), Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Aurangzeb Khan led the Thanksgiving celebrations. Students, faculty, and staff expressed gratitude for the military’s decisive response to Indian incursions and hailed the success of Operation Bunyān al-Marsoos.
In Bannu, a major ceremony took place at the 116 Brigade Headquarters, where students and officials paid tribute to the martyrs. A separate event at the Divisional Model School included national song competitions, speeches, and poetic tributes to the courage of Pakistan’s armed forces.
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The traders’ community in Peshawar, led by Malik Mehr Elahi of the Peshawar Chamber, also joined the national celebrations by attending an official event alongside civil and military leaders, including Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. Wreaths were laid, prayers were offered, and a symbolic cake-cutting marked the military’s historic victory.
In North Waziristan’s Miranshah, a grand tribal jirga was held where senior military officials including GOC Major General Adil Iftikhar and local elders paid homage to the martyrs. Special prayers and unity resolutions echoed throughout the gathering, reinforcing the deep-rooted bond between the tribal populace and the armed forces.
Earlier reports highlighted that the day began with nationwide Quran recitations and prayers, followed by 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals, paying tribute to the bravery of the armed forces. Ceremonies were also held at Mazar-e-Quaid and Mazar-e-Iqbal, while memorials across the country were adorned with floral tributes.
According to official announcements, six Indian fighter jets — including three Rafales — were downed during the confrontation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the armed forces for their decisive action, calling it a historic triumph of truth and national resilience.
The main national ceremony is scheduled for tonight at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, where the Prime Minister, Chairman Joint Chiefs, and heads of all three services will be in attendance — symbolising a united civil-military front.
This news encapsulates the national spirit of unity and sacrifice, with Youm-e-Tashakur emerging not only as a celebration of military success but also as a powerful reaffirmation of Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to safeguard its sovereignty.
