Islamabad, Aug 14 (IANS): Pakistan on Friday celebrated the 68th anniversary of independence.

The celebrations kicked-off with 31 gun salutes in the federal and 21 gun salutes in the provincial capitals, Radio Pakistan reported.

The main ceremony was held at Islamabad's Convention Centre.

President Mamnoon Hussain, who was the chief guest on the occasion, along with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif hoisted the national flag, Geo News reported.

Change of guard ceremonies were also held at mausoleums of Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

Flag hoisting ceremonies were also held at the provincial capitals and district headquarters besides other important national institutions.

A host of events, including seminars, conferences, lectures, debates, speech contests, exhibitions, quiz competitions and stage dramas have been arranged by different organisations all across the country.

Meanwhile, all major public and private buildings, roads and avenues have been illuminated and decorated with national flags, portraits of the national leaders and banners.