The Mazar-e-Quaid is the tomb of the great leader Quiad-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah who was the founder of Pakistan. He is popular to be known as the Father of nation and justifies a top spot for his tomb as a reward for his endless efforts. This tomb is also the last resting area of Fatima Jinnah (Madir-e-Millat), the sister of Quaid-e-Azam. Liaquat Ali Khan, the first prime minister of Pakistan, is also buried here after the assassination attack on him in 1951. Quaid-e-Azam has his final resting place in the center of the tomb, while Fatima Jinnah and Liaquat Ali Khan are buried in the place of courtyard. Furthermore, Noorul Ameen, Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar and Mrs. Rana Liaquat Ali Khan are also entombed in the courtyard. The tomb of Muhammad Ali Jinnah is situated near the Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi. Quaid-e-Azam spent his last days in Quetta but was buried in Karachi as he was born here. The gigantic garden here is also very popular among the visitors and is considered to be one of the primary tourist attractions in Karachi, Pakistan.
Architecture:
The traditional artwork of the Mazar-e-Quaid is very appealing and striking. The architectural style was designated by Yahya Merchant who is a famous architect throughout the world. The whole mausoleum is established by utilizing the white marble having twisted arches. The structure’s copper grills are dignified over a stage of 54 sq. meters. The entire area of tomb is 53 hectare and the volumes of the central buildings are 75 x 75 meters with a length of 43 meters. The level over which the structure stood is 4 meters tall above surface area. The entrance is provided from all the four sides of wall.
Approximately 15 fountains are established in succession which head towards the primary platform from one place. While from the other sides, the main gates are led by the terraced avenues. The interior chamber depicts strikingly the green of the four tiered dapper resembling crystal candelabrum. This chandelier has a significant place in Mazar-e-Quaid as it was the gift provided by the China; the best friend of Pakistan. The park that surrounds the mausoleum is adorned with beautiful beam lights contributing a spectacular feeling at night to the visitors. This beam light is intentionally projected at the tomb which further more increase the charisma and charm of the entire place.
There are 3 graves in the succession while the other one is situated at the northern side in the grave complex. That northern grave is adorned with black flowery design which is of Fatima Jinnah. While the other 3 graves which are in succession; the one at the southern side is of Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar; the northern side graved is of Liaquat Ali Khan and the center one grave is of Noorul Armeen; the Vice President of Pakistan. All these graves have a box type shape and are developed from white marble.
Location and the prominent events:
The locale of tomb is situated at the Jamshed Quarters near Ghulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi. Quaid-e-Azam took his last breathe in 1948 but his tomb was established in 1960 after his death of 12 years. The entire place is peaceful in contrast to the city buzz of the Karachi. The people of Karachi can view the marvelous tomb from the miles away at the night. Few official and military events are organized here on yearly basis on distinctive prominent events such as Quaid-e-Azam’s birthday on 25th December, Pakistan Resolution Day on 23rd March and Independence Day of Pakistan on 14th August. When some authorities or significant people from all around the globe make a tour to Karachi, they do certainly visit Mazar-e-Quaid which is considered to be the symbol of dignity and reflection of showing respect to the great leader Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Written by Aqsa Zahid
