Google marks Pakistan's Independence Day with Frere Hall doodle

KARACHI: Google is celebrating Pakistan's 75th Independence Day today (Sunday) with a doodle of Frere Hall in Karachi.

In a note about the importance of this historic day, Google said, "On this day in 1947, Pakistan gained independence and became a sovereign nation. This public holiday also commemorates the deeds and legacies of Pakistan's founders."

"Celebrations for the country's Independence Day start with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital, Islamabad, followed by flag-hoisting ceremonies at presidential and parliament buildings," stated Google in its message.

"Many speeches on national progress are made by political leaders and televised live to the public."

Google said festivities such as parades, firework displays, patriotic concerts and award ceremonies are also held throughout the country.

Briefing about the doogle it chose to mark the country's freedom day, Google said, "Today’s artwork features Frere Hall in Karachi, which was built to serve as a town hall in 1865."

"The historic building is now a popular tourist destination that houses Karachi’s largest library, the Liaquat National Library, with a collection of more than 70,000 books and manuscripts."

In 1980, famous Pakistani artist Sadequain was chosen to decorate the hall’s ceilings, it added.

Google also shared a collection of doodles crafted on Pakistan's previous independence days.