As the last days of October pass and cold winds move through the valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan, preparations begin for a very important day — November 1st, the Day of Independence.
Markets grow busy, tailors work late, and families prepare cultural clothing for children. This day is not only about celebration. It is about remembering the courage of the people who brought freedom to their land in 1948.
Story of Local Courage
Renowned historian and author Yousuf Hussain Abadi explains that the freedom of Gilgit-Baltistan happened in two major stages.
He says that the first stage began in Gilgit, where the Gilgit Scouts, a local force formed during British rule, played a central role. When the Dogra governor, Brigadier Ghansara Singh, took control after the British left, local dissatisfaction grew.
On the night of November 1, 1948, the Gilgit Scouts revolted. They took control of government offices, disarmed the Dogra forces, and arrested the governor. By sunrise, Gilgit was liberated.
According to Abadi, this was not a political movement but a military uprising carried out by local soldiers who understood the identity and hopes of the region.
After this, the local leadership formed the short-lived Republic of Gilgit and soon sent a message to Pakistan, asking to join the new country. Pakistan accepted, and on November 16, a political representative arrived to officially manage the region.
Longer Battle in Baltistan
Abadi explains that the second stage of liberation took place in Baltistan, and it was far more difficult. When news of Gilgit’s liberation reached Baltistan, the people there decided to fight as well.
The mountains were covered in snow, resources were limited, and the weather was harsh. Yet, local fighters — most of them ordinary farmers and shepherds — joined with the Gilgit Scouts to drive out Dogra forces. The struggle continued for months, and finally, Baltistan was freed on August 14, 1948.
Abadi says, “If the Gilgit Scouts had not existed, Gilgit-Baltistan might have become part of India. Freedom here was not given to us — it was earned by the courage of our people.”
Celebrations Today
Today, the people of Gilgit-Baltistan celebrate November 1 with deep pride. Streets fill with music, cultural dances, and polo matches. Children wear traditional dress. Fireworks brighten the night sky. Schools retell the story so young people understand the sacrifices of their ancestors.
Local resident Shabbir Shahenshah says, “We wear our cultural caps and join events together — elders and children. Our ancestors pushed out the Dogras with their own hands. Wherever people of Gilgit-Baltistan live in the world, they remember this day.”
Traders selling traditional caps and shawls confirm that demand rises sharply before the celebration. Some of these cultural items even travel to Dubai, America, and Europe, where overseas communities celebrate the day as well.
