ISLAMABAD, Dec 24: The nation will celebrate the 126th birth anniversary of the founding father of Pakistan, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, on Wednesday with a pledge to make the country a true democratic and welfare state.

Jinnah, born in Karachi in 1876, spearheaded the South Asian Muslims’ movement for the creation of a new homeland, which culminated on Aug 14, 1947, in the establishment of Pakistan.

The day will start with special prayers at major mosques for the solidarity and prosperity of the country and freedom of the Indian-held Kashmir.

Political, cultural and social organizations will hold meetings and seminars to highlight the life and services of the Quaid.

Declamation contests will be held at various educational institutions.

Newspapers will bring out special supplements on Quaid-i-Azam Day; radio and television will air programmes on the life of the leader.

All commercial and business centres, government and private offices will remain closed as Wednesday has been declared a public holiday.—APP