Pakistan observes Allama Iqbal’s 148th birth anniversary

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan observed Allama Muhammad Iqbal Day on November 9, celebrating the national poet’s 148th birth anniversary. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif renewed their commitment to the principles and vision of Allama Muhammad Iqbal for a prosperous, peaceful and united Pakistan.

In their separate messages on the birth anniversary, they paid tribute to his thoughts and extraordinary role in awakening the spirit of independence among the Muslims of the subcontinent.

The President said Allama Iqbal’s insistence on political representation for Muslims had left a lasting imprint on Pakistan’s national identity. In his message, the Prime Minister said that today the world needs Iqbal’s message of brotherhood, love and justice.

He added that the government had launched several programmes to empower youth in line with Allama Iqbal’s vision.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also paid tribute to Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the Thinker of Pakistan and Poet of the East. He said Iqbal’s personality and philosophy were an unparalleled legacy that awakened a sense of selfhood and dignity among the Muslims of the subcontinent.

Naqvi said Pakistan was the realisation of Iqbal’s dream, and its protection was a shared responsibility. He noted that Iqbal’s teachings continued to serve as a source of guidance.

The philosophy of Khudi (selfhood), Naqvi said, had instilled in young people high aspirations, steadfast faith and self-confidence. He described Iqbal’s poetry as an eternal message that calls for reflection and action.

“Today, we must embrace Iqbal’s message to build and advance our nation,” Naqvi stated, adding, “May Allah grant us the strength to follow Iqbal’s vision and lead Pakistan to new heights of prosperity. Ameen.” Staff Report