LAHORE, 8 September 2026 — Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore, observed Pakistan Defence Day with a special commemorative programme honouring the courage, resilience and sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces and the nation during the 1965 Pakistan–India War.

The ceremony brought together the Kinnaird community to reflect on a defining chapter in Pakistan’s history and to reaffirm the enduring values of courage, unity, resilience and service. The Occasion was graced by Prof. Dr. Commodore Sajid Mehmood Shahzad, SI(M), Vice Chancellor, Minhaj University Lahore, a distinguished scholar of strategic and maritime affairs, as the Guest Speaker.

In his address, Prof. Dr. Commodore Sajid Mehmood Shahzad reflected on the historical and strategic significance of the 1965 war, offering insights into the circumstances surrounding the conflict and its lasting Significance in Pakistan’s national narrative. He highlighted the valour and steadfastness of the armed forces while underscoring the broader lessons of national unity, resilience and sacrifice that continue to resonate across generations.

A distinctive feature of the commemoration was its student-led artistic programme, through which history was explored not merely as a record of events but as a living legacy of human courage and sacrifice. Kinnaird students presented a special ISPR production, while the Najumuddin Dramatics Society staged the thought-provoking theatrical performance “The Airwaves.” The programme also featured a moving musical tribute by Mashal Mona, a uniquely abled Kinnaird student, whose performance added an inspiring and deeply human dimension to the occasion.

Together, the performances reflected the multifaceted legacy of the 1965 war, bringing into focus the stories of courage, sacrifice, resilience and hope that have become an enduring part of Pakistan’s collective memory. Through the creative expression of its Students, Kinnaird reaffirmed the important role of education and the arts in fostering historical awareness and civic consciousness among young people.

Principal Kinnaird College for Women, Prof. Dr. Iram Anjum, addressed the gathering and paid heartfelt tribute to the martyrs, the armed forces and the civilians whose courage and sacrifices strengthened the nation during times of adversity. She emphasised the importance of remembering their contributions and of nurturing among younger generations the values of responsibility, unity, resilience and service to the nation.

The commemoration served as a meaningful reminder that the legacy of Defence Day extends beyond remembering a historic conflict. It is also an opportunity to recognise the human courage behind that history and reflect on the values that continue to shape the nation’s identity.

As Kinnaird College honoured those who made sacrifices for Pakistan, the occasion reaffirmed a timeless commitment:

We remember the sacrifice.
We honour the courage.
We carry forward the legacy.

Pakistan Zindabad! 🇵🇰