Field Marshal Asim Munir’s gesture steals spotlight at Victory Monument

ISLAMABAD: A video of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir placing his hand affectionately on the heads of women during a ceremony has gained widespread attention on social media.

The video surfaced during the inauguration of the Victory Monument in Islamabad on Independence Day. During the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir and other senior civilian and military leaders met families of martyrs and military veterans. The leadership paid tribute to their sacrifices and services.

The Victory Monument was inaugurated on Thursday night in a ceremony attended by the country’s top civilian and military leadership. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended as chief guests.

Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, was also present. Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf attended the ceremony as well.

The monument has been built to honour Pakistan’s martyrs and commemorate the military confrontation with India in May. The event featured a series of patriotic performances and visual displays.

The ceremony opened with a military band playing the national anthem. A special light and sound show titled “Dastaan-e-Ishq-e-Watan: Marka-e-Haq” was later presented.

Projection mapping technology was used to display visuals on the monument. The presentation highlighted themes linked to patriotism, sacrifice and the country’s defence.

A documentary was also screened during the event. It showcased the construction of the monument and the eight-month journey from its initial design and development to completion.

The monument features five large arches. According to the presentation, the arches represent the five pillars of Islam. They also symbolise five pillars of Pakistan, identified as the government, armed forces, media, people and national ideology.

The structure incorporates elements representing Pakistan’s three military services. Its design also highlights the country’s capabilities in cyber defence and space warfare.

Pakistan Air Force fighter jets conducted an aerial display during the ceremony. The aircraft released flares across the night sky, adding to the spectacle.

The event concluded with a flag-hoisting ceremony attended by President Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir. Fireworks were also displayed as the national anthem played.