Celebrating Pakistan’s Independence at Ajax Marketplace

By Anthony Joseph

Flag raising

The Pakistani community made a detour to the East End of the GTA and celebrated their 75th Independence anniversary at Ajax Marketplace on Notion Road in Ajax.

The 18,000 in attendance is a measure of how special this occasion was for our Pakistani Canadian community. 

The event, hosted by Marketplace owner Zahid Malik, attracted representatives and dignitaries from all levels of government. MP Salma Zahid, who brought a message from the Prime Minister, wished the community the very best from the people Canada. Shameer Awan brought greetings on behalf of the Ontario Minister of Finance MPP Peter Betherfavy, while a number of Ajax City councilors, headed by deputy mayor Marilyn Crawford, extended warm wishes.  The Trade & Investment Counselor of Pakistan to Toronto Azhar Husain was an honoured guest.

It was a day of fun, music and laughter. The wide range of exquisitely flavoured Pakistani cuisine was washed down with freshly cut coconut water from the Iqbal Foods of Ajax. Added to this mouthwatering fare was a taste of the Caribbean – copious servings of jerk chicken by Delor’s Catering.

Salma Zahid, Zahid Malik and his son

The Marketplace is looking forward to hosting the Pakistani and other communities at what is a great location with space to accommodate major high density events.