Rare Jinnah Photographs Remind Youth Of Pakistan’s Struggle And Sacrifices’: Aurangzeb Khichi
ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 20th Aug, 2026)
Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, on Thursday, stated that rare photographs of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah are not just historical records but powerful messages for Pakistan’s younger generation. These photographs remind them of the struggle, dedication, and sacrifices behind the creation of Pakistan.
He made these remarks while inaugurating a historic photographic exhibition titled "Quaid-i-Azam: The First Governor-General of Pakistan (1947–1948)" at the National Art Gallery of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA).
The exhibition, part of PNCA’s 79th Independence Day celebrations, showcases a visual chronicle of Quaid-i-Azam’s life and official engagements through the lens of his official photographer, Ziauddin Barni.
Khichi emphasized the importance of preserving and presenting historical material to foster national awareness and inspire younger generations to understand the values of leadership, determination, public service, and commitment embodied by Quaid-i-Azam. He noted that such exhibitions provide young people with a meaningful way to connect with Pakistan’s history and keep alive the legacy of the nation’s founder for future generations.
The exhibition, curated by Mariam Ahmed, is being held under the patronage of PNCA Director General Muhammad Ayoub Jamali. It was initially showcased in 2023 at the Mohatta Palace Museum, Karachi, in collaboration with Dawn Media, and was curated by Abdul Hamid Akhund and Hameed Haroon.
These photographs offer a rare glimpse into Pakistan’s formative years through the lens of Ziauddin Barni who documented significant moments during Quaid-i-Azam’s tenure as the first Governor-General. Notably, they include poignant images of Quaid-i-Azam’s final days and funeral ceremonies following his death in September 1948.
The photographs on display represent a portion of material from Barni’s personal archive, preserved by his family, particularly his granddaughter Zarreen Baqir. Several other photographs believed to have been taken by Barni are also stored in national archives.
Beyond their historical significance, these images offer a human perspective of Quaid-i-Azam, capturing moments of leadership, public service, interaction, and reflection during Pakistan’s formative years. The exhibition invites visitors to look beyond the iconic portrait of the Quaid and discover the man behind the historic figure.
