LONDON: The Bust of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was unveiled at the historic British Museum as part of the grand finale of the year-long celebrations in Britain to mark the 70th Independence Anniversary of Pakistan. Rich tributes were paid to the Founding Father of the Nation on the occasion. The event was attended by prominent Pakistanis and members of the British government.
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Mayor of London Sadiq Khan was the chief guest at the ceremony. He, together with Syed Ibne Abbas, the High Commissioner, unveiled the Bust at the China & South Asia Gallery of the British Museum.
The Bust is being permanently installed at the Quaid’s alma mater, the prestigious Lincoln’s Inn on 29 November 2017.
The Mayor of London said that he was proud to be part of this event to honour the great Muhammad Ali Jinnah, particularly as someone of Pakistani heritage.
“Muhammad Ali Jinnah is a pivotal figure in history but is also still an inspiration to us today – not just to Pakistanis, but to millions around the world. As a champion of democracy, women’s rights and religious freedom” Sadiq Said.
He further stated “I’m proud to be the first-ever Mayor of London to be making an official visit to Pakistan. As someone of Pakistani heritage, I feel a deep affinity with the country and I’m looking forward to going back,
“London and Pakistan share a long and unique history that has had a profound influence on shaping our respective societies, economies and cultures. I see my visit as an exciting opportunity to build on the ties that bind our cities and countries together for the mutual benefit of everyone,Brits and Pakistanis, Londoners and Lahoris, EastEnders and Karachiites alike,
During my time in Pakistan, I’ll be visiting Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi to strengthen the links that exist between London and these great Pakistani cities. There is a huge amount we can learn from each other and I’m confident there’s scope for even greater collaboration in the years ahead” he added.
The internationally acclaimed British sculptor, Philip Jackson sculpted the Bust. Sharing his experience of making the Bust, Mr Jackson said: “To get to the essence of the Man, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, I studied all the still photographs I could get hold of, viewed all the available films, read the words of those that had written about him and spoke to those whose lives he has changed, all to aid the buildup in my mind a composite picture of the extraordinary man I was to portray.
“Undertaking a sculptural portrait, is like writing a book. You have to do all your research before you can start. You have to get to know subject, get under his skin, see what makes him tick. Then you can start.”
At the end, British Pakistani Sufi opera singer, Saira Peter presented national songs and cheered up the ceremony.
