Mazar-e-Quaid: The Tomb of the Father of Pakistani Nation
Famous Destination, also known as the National Mausoleum, Mazar-e-Quaid, is in Central Karachi.
Mazar-e-Quaid, is a popular spot situated in the posh area of Jamshed Quarters, right in the center of Karachi where the Mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah is found in a 53-acre park. It was built to remember the founder of Pakistan who struggled and suffered hardships yet won independence in 1947 for the Muslim Nation so each and every person can live freely, and practice their religious and cultural practices without any discrimination or oppression.
Inside the mausoleum area, you can find the tombs of prominent personalities of Pakistan like Jinnah’s sister, Fatima Jinnah, who was called ‘Mother of the Nation.’ Other tombs are that of Liaquat Ali Khan, the first Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Nurul Amin, the eighth Prime Minister of Pakistan. The mausoleum of Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar who was a strong supporter of the Muslim League from Peshawar also rests there.
History of Mazar e Quaid
The construction of Mazar e Quaid was not a one-day journey. It was erected after years of efforts and raised voices.
Muhammad Ali Jinnah passed away in 1948 after suffering from a health ailment for a long time. After his death, they only had a simple marble slab to mark his resting place. Then, in 1949, they started a fund called the Quaid-e-Azam Memorial Fund (QMF) to make a proper memorial site.
They were indecisive in selecting a particular design idea. Architects across the globe were asked to share their designs. A British architect won the competition, but Jinnah’s sister, Fatima Jinnah, didn’t like it, so its usage was declined.
Fatima Jinnah took charge of the QMF and asked an Indian architect named Yahya Merchant to design her brother’s monument. They began building it in 1960, and President Ayub Khan laid the first stone. After ten years, in 1971, Yahya Khan inaugurated Mazar-e-Quaid.
Mazar e Quaid Architecture
Jinnah’s tomb covers a wide area of 61 acres and the building stands 43 meters above ground level. The monument is designed with a modish outlook of curved Moorish arches, giving it the feel of Islamic and Mughal architecture. It appears to be quite simple yet holds unique depth when viewed closely. Its details represent the personality of Jinnah and portray his lifestyle.
The tomb is made of white marble and sits on a big platform of 54 square meters. There’s a beautiful dome on the top and a fancy chandelier inside that was a gift from China. There are four entrances to the monument, and they have pretty copper designs. People can go inside the doors to get a glimpse of the tomb. Materials from the local area were used, offering people from there to put their big part in its construction.
The white marble of the tomb shows the pure and kind nature our leader had, while the dome and shapes demonstrate the supreme significance of Muhammad Ali Jinnah for Pakistan.
Ceremonial Importance and Tourist Attractions
Mazar e Quaid has a paramount importance and special ceremonies are conducted there on national days like Pakistan Day, Independence Day, and Jinnah’s Birthday. Foreign ambassadors and political figures pay a visit to this place due to their tour of Pakistan. Educational trips are arranged by institutes in Pakistan to ignite the spirit of enthusiasm in youth and make them aware of the greater cause of independence. Also, Mazar e Quaid attracts almost 10 thousand visitors per year, making it one of the eminent historical destinations in Karachi.
Mazar e Quaid Timings
Mazar e Quaid remains open for the general public from Friday to Tuesday. The timings are from 10 am to 5:30 pm. Yet for Wednesday and Thursday, the timings are slightly shortened and the place is accessible from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. It’s best to confirm the timings before paying a visit as they change on special days or occasions like Independence or Pakistan Day.
Pictures of Quaid e Azam Mazar
If you haven’t had a trip to Mazar e Quaid and are curious to see its building then take a visual tour of the shrine of Quaid e Azam with us. Have a view of Mazar e Quaid’s pics listed below:
Conclusion
Mazar e Quaid is a special spot that recalls the strength of our great leader Quaid e Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah who was passionate about establishing a free state of Pakistan. Visiting this place gives a sneak peek into our country’s unique history that fills your soul with emotions of patriotism and makes you feel so proud at heart. It also reminds us to do justice to this land by upholding its values.
