world friendship day
Friendship is a special bond that brings people together, offering support, trust, and happiness. Good friends stand by each other in times of joy and sorrow, sharing moments that create memories for life. They help each other grow, learn, and feel valued. True friendship is built on kindness, respect, and understanding. Across the world, people celebrate this wonderful connection on 30th July.
In Pakistan, as in many other countries, this day is an opportunity to reflect on the meaning and importance of friendship in our lives. Although the idea of celebrating friendship may seem modern, the roots of valuing friendship are deeply woven into Pakistani culture and society, where the bonds of companionship, loyalty, and trust have always played an important role. In Pakistan, where companionship is deeply valued, World Friendship Day is more than a celebration - it reflects a way of life built on love, loyalty, and strong bonds. People value friendships as a precious part of their social fabric. In Pakistani society good friends are seen as your family. From childhood friends who play cricket in the streets to university companions sharing hostel rooms, these connections often last for decades and shape who we become as individuals. One of the most touching aspects of friendship in Pakistan is the tradition of hospitality. Friends are always welcome at each other’s homes. Tea, snacks, and gup shup are an essential part of such gatherings.
On World Friendship Day, young people take the opportunity to exchange small gifts, friendship bands, or handwritten notes with their close friends. These simple acts of kindness help them express how much they appreciate their friends’ presence in their lives. In schools, teachers sometimes encourage students to talk about the importance of friendship and to write essays or make drawings to show what their friends mean to them. In many universities and colleges, students mark World Friendship Day with special events such as concerts, poetry recitals, or friendly sports matches. These activities allow them to bond with their classmates and make memories that stay with them long after their studies are over.
Social media has also changed how young people celebrate World Friendship Day. Many post photos, videos, or heartfelt messages online to let their friends know how much they care. However, traditional ways of celebrating friendship still hold a special place in people’s hearts. Friends often gather in parks, cafes, or each other’s homes to spend time together, laugh, and share stories. Usually, these meet-ups are simple and do not require a big budget, because the true spirit of World Friendship Day is about human connection rather than expensive gifts or elaborate parties.
One cannot ignore the role of friendship during crises. In times of floods, earthquakes, or other disasters, friends often work together to help those in need. Community networks become lifelines when official help is delayed. Friends organise food drives, collect donations, and volunteer side by side. These moments show how powerful true friendship can be when it goes beyond words and turns into action for greater good.
World Friendship Day is also a day to remember those friendships that were lost or broken. People sometimes use the day to reach out to old friends, to say sorry, or to try and rebuild trust. This can be a very positive step, helping to heal misunderstandings and bring peace of mind.
World Friendship Day reminds everyone that friendships need to be nurtured and cared for, just like any other important relationship. Even a simple phone call, text message, or short visit can help keep friendships alive in a busy world.
The writer is a seasoned journalist and a communications professional. He can be reached at tariqkikgmail.com