February 5, 2019, is Kashmir Day. On this day, Pakistan will celebrate and honor the sacrifice of the martyrs in the struggle for autonomy in Kashmir. To highlight the Kashmiri freedom movement and express solidarity with it, they created this day. The inspiration for the celebration is the defense of Jammu and Kashmir made by Pakistan in 1947-48 after partition. It is a day of peace and harmony. A day when we all get together to place our flower offerings at the martyrs' graves. It is a day that unites us all as one nation.
The history of Kashmir Day begins with the history of the Indian invasion and occupation of the Kashmir Valley. Kashmiris expected that their country would be independent on August 5, 1947. However, Lord Mountbatten prevented this without informing Kashmiris.
In 1950, the constitution of Azad Kashmir came into effect and was amended in 2004 to declare the day a holiday. Demonstrations, rallies, and religious gatherings mark the day. The Kashmiri freedom movement has turned many heads towards the issue for decades now. To raise awareness of Kashmir's struggle, many parties organized processions, rallies, conferences, and seminars. These are attended sometimes by thousands of people and have become a calling card for the organizations that host them.
These leaders and activists also advocate a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue. Politicians, religious parties, and other organizations hold rallies and long marches. People chant slogans to support the Kashmiri freedom struggle and express solidarity with the Kashmiri people. A chain of people standing on all major routes from Pakistan into Azad Kashmir is standard. These chains sometimes stretch for more than 9 kilometers forming a human chain.
The black scarf is an important cultural symbol, and it represents unity and solidarity to reassure Kashmiris that they are not alone in their struggle for freedom. Wearing a black scarf is a sign of pride not only for the wearer but also for others. The accessory is often worn during special cultural programs and festivals to promote Kashmiri culture and tradition.
The news and entertainment industry has recently stepped up its campaign for raising public awareness about Kashmiri resistance. In addition, educational institutions have organized student-led panel discussions on various issues related to the Kashmir conflict to develop a multi-perspective approach. The public transportation system is available throughout the day, but traffic congestion can occur in major cities. In addition, major roads and streets remain blocked because of Kashmir Day parades and processions.
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Pakistan's Prime Minister announced the first Kashmir Day on February 6, 1952. He asked the Kashmiri people to unite for their freedom from India and stated that Pakistan would always stand with them. Kashmir Day has been celebrated annually since 1952.
In the end, Kashmir is a place of beauty and culture where the bloodshed of innocents shouldn't happen. The Indian army has cost many lives over the past few years, which is why Kashmir must be independent and peaceful again. Kashmir Day serves as a reminder to the rest of the world that they are also human beings who have been denied their rights.
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