ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), National Art Gallery, has presented a rare and historic photographic exhibition titled “Quaid-i-Azam: The First Governor-General of Pakistan 1947–1948”, documenting the life and official engagements of Pakistan’s founding leader through the lens of his official photographer, Ziauddin Barni.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, with the patronage of PNCA Director General Muhammad Ayoub Jamali. It forms part of PNCA’s commemorative activities marking Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day.
The exhibition was first showcased in 2023 at the Mohatta Palace Museum, Karachi, in collaboration with Dawn Media, and was curated by Abdul Hamid Akhund and Hameed Haroon. The current exhibition at the National Art Gallery, PNCA, has been curated by Mariam Ahmed.
The display offers visitors a rare visual chronicle of the formative years of Pakistan through the camera of Ziauddin Barni, recognised as the official photographer of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Barni accompanied the Quaid on numerous official engagements and documented significant moments during his tenure as the first Governor-General of Pakistan.
Among the most poignant photographs are those documenting the Quaid-i-Azam’s final days and funeral ceremonies following his death in September 1948. These images constitute an invaluable visual record of one of the defining moments in Pakistan’s history.
The photographs on display represent only a portion of the material from Barni’s personal archive, preserved by his family, particularly his granddaughter Zarreen Baqir. A number of other photographs preserved in national archives are also believed to have been taken by Barni.
Beyond their historical value, the photographs offer a deeply human perspective on Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, capturing moments of leadership, public service, interaction and reflection during the formative years of Pakistan. Through these images, visitors are invited to look beyond the iconic portrait of the Quaid and discover the man behind the historic figure.
Speaking at the inauguration, chief guest Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said the rare photographs of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah were not merely a record of history but also a powerful message for Pakistan’s younger generation. He said the photographs reminded the nation of the immense struggle, dedication and sacrifices that led to the creation of Pakistan, and emphasised the importance of preserving and passing this legacy on to future generations.
The federal minister further said such exhibitions provided young people with an opportunity to connect with Pakistan’s history in a meaningful and visual manner. He highlighted the importance of preserving and presenting historical material to strengthen national awareness and inspire younger generations to understand the values of leadership, determination, service and commitment embodied by Quaid-i-Azam.
PNCA, National Art Gallery, has invited art lovers, historians, researchers, students, photographers and the general public to visit the exhibition and experience the visual journey through the early history of Pakistan.
The exhibition will remain open until September 30, 2026, at Gallery No. 1 and the Grand Hall, National Art Gallery, PNCA, Islamabad. Daily timings are from 10:00am to 4:00pm.
