QUAID-I-AZAM Mohammad Ali Jinnah, a point of convergence for the nation, was the epitome of grace and refinement. Owing to his wisdom, vision and charisma, the Quaid was the most befitting personality in united India to lead the Muslim nation in its quest for history.

Unfortunately, in our culture, it is common to seek shortcomings in other’s personalities and to downgrade excellence. In the case of Jinnah, all negative prop-aganda failed before Partition, and cannot have even a remote chance of success today. Some would say he was arrogant, while others object to his Western lifestyle.

The fact is that he was a straightforward and pragmatic individual. The personality of Jinnah will surely withstand the test of unfounded scepticism that seems to be prevailing today.

The arrogance attributed to Jinnah is due to his integrity and honesty. Since Jinnah had no large social circle in Bombay (now Mumbai), and was very reserved and principled in his private life, many who were unable to understand his personality, resorted to allegations of ‘arrogance’.

The warmth of his concern and affection was on ample display when he visited the refugee camps in Pakistan, with tears in his eyes and grief in his heart.

The Father of the Nation donated most of his wealth and property for the welfare of the people of Pakistan. The same noble tradition was followed by his sister.

The nation must preserve this point of convergence for the future generations.

Farrukh Shahab
Lahore

Published in Dawn, March 23rd, 2025