/imaginePakistan

It all began with /imagine Pakistan.

Every year, Independence Day arrives — and every year, all we seem to dread are the deafening horns and the endless traffic. But this year feels different.
This year, I was reminded of how easily we take freedom for granted when I witnessed firsthand the privilege we overlook every single day. We live in our homes, protected by land, sea, and sky — by people, my own countrymen, braver than any others.

I remember the possessiveness and anger I felt when my homeland was under attack. I remembered how deeply I care — how much I would do to protect it. Because what if I didn’t have the never-sleeping, loud, and messy Lahore that makes me feel alive no matter the hour… the serene Islamabad with its calm, wide streets and mountain views… Karachi with its stunning beaches… Peshawar with its irresistible food… Rawalpindi with its rich culture… my country, and my people.

I couldn’t bear to lose any of it. So, I gathered just a small glimpse of it, as best as I could, to show everyone how beautiful my country truly is.

She’s looking absolutely radiant at 78!
There’s a deep sense of identity in this work — it comes straight from my Pakistani heart, and I hope it touches everyone who sees it.

Pakistan Zindabad!