Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf announced in Islamabad that the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony would soon celebrate Easter and Nowruz festivals as part of its interfaith initiatives.
Addressing a ceremony celebrating the Holi festival of Hindu religion at the National Library of Pakistan, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to religious freedom and minority rights. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony celebrates various religious festivals every year to promote unity among diverse communities, he said.
“Our Constitution guarantees religious freedom to followers of all faiths,” the federal minister told the audience, and emphasized that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah ensured minority rights by including the white color in Pakistan’s national flag. “We are all Pakistanis and equally share each other’s joys and sorrows,” he said while highlighting the spirit of togetherness.
Stressing that all religions advocate for humanity, he said such celebrations were endorsed by former prime minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif to foster harmony. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the celebration of religious festivals of all communities with due respect, he said. “You can contest general elections despite the fact you have reserved seats in Senate, National Assembly, and provincial assemblies,” he informed the gathering.
The minister underscored that protecting the rights of all citizens was a national responsibility. He highlighted that minority students were awarded scholarships, and funds were allocated for their education and health. Furthermore, he said that a five percent quota has been reserved for minorities in government jobs. Calling for peace and tolerance in the society, he stressed that religious harmony was essential for the national unity.
He said that the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has conveyed a clear message that the world must stand against injustice wherever it occurs. He said that all the religions teache humanity and tolerance, urging everyone to contribute to creating a society where all citizens live in happiness. Like other parts of the world, Hindus also celebrated Holi festival mid of the last month.
In a message shared on his official social media account, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed his heartfelt greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan as they celebrated the Holi festival. He highlighted significance of the festival, calling it a celebration of love, renewal, and the victory of good over evil.
“The vibrant energy of Holi marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes unity, hope, and joy. It is a time to embrace new beginnings and strengthen our bonds as a nation,” he said, and emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusion, noting that such celebrations enrich Pakistan’s cultural fabric and promote harmony among its people. “May this festival of colors bring happiness, prosperity, and success to all those who are celebrating.”
