Celebrations marked the beginning of 2026 across Pakistan as people welcomed the new year with fireworks, music and public gatherings in major cities following celebrations around the world.
In Karachi, the country’s largest city, the Sindh Governor House hosted a spectacular New Year celebration that attracted thousands of citizens, including women, youth and children of all ages. The event featured the longest fireworks display ever recorded at the venue.
The ceremony began with a recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem and patriotic slogans “Pakistan Zindabad” energizing the crowd.
In a video address, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori reflected on 2025, calling it a year of military, diplomatic and economic achievements for Pakistan.
Highlighting that Pakistan remained in the global spotlight throughout the year, he praised the U-19 cricket team for defeating India in the recent Asia Cup final, calling it a gift to the nation that would be remembered for life.
Tessori further expressed gratitude to the armed forces and prayed for the defeat of conspirators and anti-government elements, hoping that they meet their just end in 2026 as a warning to others.
Addressing the public, the governor thanked the people of Karachi and the entire Sindh province for attending Governor House events and said their presence had been a source of encouragement.
He assured that major programs and enhanced welfare initiatives are planned for 2026 and reaffirmed that the doors of the Governor House will remain open to the public.
As the clock struck midnight, the air echoed with shouts of “Pakistan Zindabad”, followed by a mesmerizing fireworks display that lit up the night sky and captivated all participants.
Separately, Mayor Murtaza Wahab also attended a musical evening at Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim, where fireworks were planned for midnight. The mayor arrived at the site on Thursday to attend an event commemorating the spirit of famous Sufi saint Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.
During the programme, Wahab asked for a Qalandari dhamaal performance in honor of the saint. Singers presented folk music in various regional languages that reflected the country’s cultural diversity. Organizers said a fireworks display near the beach would take place at midnight, adding that all arrangements for the spectacle had been completed.
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The event aimed to mix New Year celebrations with cultural festivities and offer entertainment while promoting traditional Sufi music and performances.
In Lahore, Liberty Chowk hosted a grand fireworks display organized by the Punjab government. A significant number of citizens gathered to witness the show, while police personnel and traffic wardens were deployed to maintain security and manage crowds.
Large crowds, including women and children, also gathered along Mall Road on New Year’s Eve to welcome 2026. Authorities ensured the main thoroughfare remained clear, with citizens restricted to sidewalks to prevent disruption and ensure safety.
Churches along the Mall Road rang their bells at midnight to mark the start of the new year, adding to the festive atmosphere. Residents were seen celebrating enthusiastically as the year began.
Meanwhile, two persons were injured in separate incidents of aerial shelling in Chanesar Goth and Goli Mar Haji Mirad Goth, Karachi.
In separate incidents, two persons were also injured by bullets from unknown sources at Five Star Chowrangi and Korangi No. 3, according to the Edhi authorities.
A man was also injured by a stray bullet near the new vegetable market, Chhipa Rescue authorities reported. All injured were treated and transported to nearby hospitals.
Authorities have called for calm and urged residents to refrain from firing weapons during the festivities.
